Actionable Life Skills for Young Adults: 11 Powerful Steps to Achieve Financial Independence and Kick-start Your Road to Successful Adulthood

by Maya Shine

Discover what school didn’t cover! Are you a parent or guardian looking for a smooth and effective way for your teenager or young adult to master essential life skills? Are you a young adult seeking advice on entering adulthood with confidence?Prepare your young adult or yourself for a critical rite of passage with this 11-step, easy-to read guide, based on the tested 5WH framework for problem-solving. Each chapter can be read out of sequence, as needed!Empower your teen or yourself with actionable skills like budgeting, preparing for a job interview, getting a first car, and so much more, including an Action Plan to follow at the back of the book.This well-researched guide is precisely what you need. A treasure trove of wisdom crafted to accelerate this personal and professional journey, it is intended to be a guide from the early stages of self-discovery to the thrilling moment of soaring into adulthood, equipped with the tools for financial independence.Get a clear understanding

How to succeed in the professional worldHow to deal with neurodiversity in the workplaceWhat money management and budgeting tools are at your disposalHow to handle interpersonal conflictHow to stay safe inside the home and onlineThe basics of nourishing not only the brain, but also the body when it comes to nutritionMuch more life skills for teens aged 16+ (US context)Filled with inspiring real-life stories, this book invites teens to embark on a process of self-reflection through thought-provoking questions and practical steps.This guide encourages communication between teens and trusted adults. It also highlights that genuine success extends beyond mere skills, emphasizing the importance of embracing what makes each person authentically human.After all, life is about thriving, not just surviving!

Genres: Self Help, Nonfiction

224 pages, Paperback

Published December 4, 2023

About the author

Maya Shine is a parent, storyteller, best-selling, and multi-award-winning author who turns real-life lessons into empowering resources for teens, young adults, and those guiding them.

Her debut book, Actionable Life Skills for Teens & Young Adults, has been recognized as a Book Excellence Gold Award winner, Readers’ Favorite Gold Award winner, and Literary Titan Gold Award winner in the Young Adult Non-Fiction category — honoring its excellence, impact, and practical value.

With roots in engineering and leadership, Maya brings structure to complexity — and heart to tough conversations. Her multidisciplinary lens blends logic with intuition and research with lived experience. Maya’s writing offers not just information, but insight — practical guidance wrapped in thoughtful storytelling.

Whether she’s unpacking the realities of adulting or helping families shift generational dynamics, her work is grounded in a deep respect for growth, responsibility, and human connection. She writes for the doers, the dreamers, and the change-makers — those who believe that growing up should come with tools, not just expectations.

Her mission reaches across cultures and generations, with a focus on bridging gaps between where people are and who they’re capable of becoming.

To stay connected, visit mayashinebooks.com or follow her on social media @Maya Shine Books Official — where ideas turn into action, and potential turns into purpose.

Reviews

[Shan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to author Maya for entrusting me with this book in exchange for an honest review. Cheers!
I thought the intro to this book was absolutely perfect, and it helped to set the tone of the book right out of the gate. It was written in a professionally casual way, not too serious but also informative. I would say I even learned a few things myself, and I think that all of the advice from this book will be very helpful to my teenage daughter.
So why did I only give this book 4 stars? There was only one thing I didn't enjoy:
Some of the advice given seemed like common sense. However, I will admit that maybe some things that I think are common sense may not be to others. But, the way these bits were written felt like the author was treating the reader like a child, which I thought was odd since this book is geared towards teenagers.
Other than that, this book is very helpful, for any teenager out there. I would recommend this book to anyone, regardless of knowledge, because there is useful advice for really anyone out there.

[Deanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I won an advance copy of this book I did not initially realize it was Kindle. For a book like this, that would be helpful to share with clients, I think it is worth getting a hard copy. But the information was solid and well laid out.

[T. C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

So much value

I love that this book exists and only wish it was around when I was a teenager. Financial literacy is so important. I'm glad to have found a book geared towards teens that covers soooo much. From scholarships to cars and computers - it's in here.

[Literary Titan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Actionable Life Skills for Young Adults: 11 Powerful Steps to Achieve Financial Independence and Kick-Start Your Road to Successful Adulthood, by Maya Shine, offers a comprehensive and practical roadmap for young individuals transitioning into adulthood. Shine delves into a variety of crucial topics, ranging from self-awareness and health to financial management and online security. Her approach to these subjects is thorough and encourages proactive engagement in one's journey towards adulthood.

Shine has a talent for breaking down complex life skills into manageable segments, making the content accessible and relatable. The book is thoughtfully structured into 11 distinct sections, each focusing on a different facet of adult life. These sections are further divided into smaller chapters, providing in-depth discussion on specific elements within each broader topic. One of the book's strengths lies in its universality. Despite some chapters discussing topics like student loans, which might not be directly relevant to all readers, the principles and insights offered are adaptable to various contexts. This versatility speaks to Shine's skill in addressing a wide audience.

The book is not only informative but also motivational. It strikes a balance between being realistic about the challenges of adulthood and encouraging readers to be optimistic and proactive. Shine emphasizes the importance of essential life skills such as nutrition, tax management, health care, and financial stability. These skills are presented as foundations for a successful and balanced life, underscoring their value beyond immediate practicality. I found the book to be an enlightening experience. While not every scenario discussed was directly applicable to my life, the overall content was engaging and educational. Shine's ability to articulate the common experiences and emotions of young adults is particularly effective. It creates a sense of solidarity and reassurance, motivating readers to develop a deeper understanding of themselves and to strive for personal growth.

Maya Shine's book is a valuable resource for any young adult navigating the complexities of modern life. It's a testament to her insightful understanding of the challenges faced by this age group and her ability to communicate solutions in an engaging manner. I eagerly anticipate reading more of her work in the future.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Adulting is one of the most challenging parts of growing up, but it does not necessarily have to be. This book guides emerging adults through some of the more foundational pieces of adulthood with ease and accessibility. From self care to job skills to money management, the segments in this book are immeasurably helpful to youth who are preparing to embark on their own. While it can be read directly from beginning to end, this book is also well-designed to be digested in pieces instead of all at once. Additionally, sources are cited throughout the book, which enhances the veracity of the content presented.

Though this book is non-fiction, it is written in a way that is highly approachable. Each chapter begins with a relevant quote, and there is also an actionable recommendation once the chapter concludes. This design offers readers foundational background into each specific topic of interest, while also giving readers ways to bring the more cerebral content into a tangible existence in the real world. No chapter is unbearably long, and readers will appreciate the depth of knowledge presented, especially if they are not equipped to have meaningful conversations with the adults in their lives.

By the end of the book, readers will feel as though they have a greater confidence entering the world as independent humans. They may be inspired to return to certain chapters more than once, and readers of a wide range of backgrounds and identities will feel supported by the author herself. While there are occasional references to religion and spirituality, these are only pieces of the greater whole, and they can be embraced—or not—depending on the reader’s individual sentiments. Neither preachy nor belittling, this book is well-crafted to provide guidance and support while encouraging young people to spread their wings into an independent and successful future. This is an excellent handbook for youth who are beginning to carve their own paths in the real world.

[LitPick Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maya Shine’s Actionable Life Skills for Young Adults is a comprehensive advice and self-help book for teenagers and young adults. Shine relays pertinent information for self-reflection, self-care, and the importance of high school and secondary academics. Several chapters cover the flexibility of options to earn money, how to present oneself during interviews, the necessity of budgeting, and the breakdown of taxes and loans. The ins and outs of buying a car and renting an apartment are carefully discussed. The options of riding a bicycle or taking public transportation are indulged as well. The book closes with helpful chapters on food, basic cooking, staying safe in the physical and cyber world, and finding trust, compassion, and hopefulness in one’s spiritual life. Each chapter ends with a “Take Action” tip sheet reviewing the chapter and prompting next steps. Appendixes include tips and charts to support readers following the advice and suggested self-reflection.

Opinion:
Maya Shine’s personality shines through her Actionable Life Skills for Young Adults. Shine presents as a friend and parental figure filled with wisdom and experience from a life well-lived. Her writing flows as relatable advice is given to teenagers and young adults taking their steps out into the world of independence and responsibility. “Take Action” tip sheets conclude each chapter and a plethora of chart appendixes allow the reader to become a main character of this advice book. The reader can self-reflect to make educated decisions as well as map out dreams and goals. Essential topics include employment types, interviews, budgeting, taxes, loans, car purchasing and operation, apartments and room mates, food skills, and the importance of staying safe while exploring the world and protecting one’s online identity. This book is the perfect guide to teenagers, young adults, and older adults attempting to succeed and achieve their dreams.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chapter One starts with a great question, Did you know 81 percent of

new college graduates wish they had been taught more life skills before they got their diploma?



Let's get real. Sometimes we learn skills when we are young and sometimes we don't. I can provide you with a basic example. We were faced with limited resources and did not have a washer and dryer at home. I was in grade school at the time and every week, I went to the laundry mat with Mom. Back then, we didn't have detergent pods, either. Instead, we measured everything out in a cup for the different cycles we were using.



About 10 years ago I realized I had a life skill I hadn't even considered until it was brought to my attention. A washer, we had, broke down. I loaded up the vehicle and went to the laundry mat. While there, a man approached me and asked for my help. He had a laundry detergent pod but said he wasn't sure when to put it in with his clothing and he had no idea how to start the washer or dryer let alone fold clothes when they were done.



Sometimes the tasks we think are simple - only mean they are simple for us - not others.



This well-detailed book wil help you with 11 Powerful Steps



KNOW YOURSELF
SELF CARE
ACE ACADEMICS
GET A JOB AND EARN WHILE YOU LEARN
BE THE BOSS OF YOUR CASH
COLLEGE COSTS, LOANS, AND CREDIT CARDS
YOUR FIRST SET OF WHEELS
GETTING YOUR OWN PLACE
FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD!
STAYING SAFE
SPIRITUALITY AND MORALITY


Independent skills are behaviors and knowledge required for a person to live successfully on their own. This book depicts a version of the 5WH method. It provides thought-provoking questions and makes us aware of habits, goals, and a broad spectrum of considerations.



Being independent can be very empowering.



I received a copy of this book from Maya Shine

[Anthony · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Review

When it comes to education, I’ve always been a firm believer in positive reinforcement. It’s how I approach reviewing as well, as I think finding the good in a person’s work and utilizing positive comments to help a person’s weaker points is the right approach. That is the heart of the author’s book here, using positivity to help guide young adults into adulthood naturally.

The book does an excellent job of honing in on various topics, from decision-making and finances to self-care and even street smarts. The reflective nature of the author’s work allows the reader to put the author’s advice and educational value into practice and serves as the perfect book to come back to time and time again.

The Verdict

Engaging, thought-provoking, and insightful author Maya Shine’s “Actionable Life Skills for Young Adults” is a must-read self-help and guidebook. The straightforward yet positive approach to the subject matter and how this book can help both young adults and parents hoping to ensure their children’s future is as secure as possible made this a compelling nonfiction read.

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good information, especially if your parents haven't prepared you for anything. I wished she hadn't put her own opinions (for example the Mediterranean diet) in because she's trying to teach young adults to think for themselves. The other comment I wished she didn't put in was around weight - some people are healthy at a society deemed heavier weight and it can be worse for your body to lose and regain weight (weight cycling) than remaining at its naturally healthy weight.

I will likely give to my kids to read when they are in high school.

Received a free copy from a publisher giveaway.

[K. Adamus · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some basic information on different life areas, which can be helpful for each teenager to avoid being in a ‘dead end street’ situation. At times it looks like dumped out a few kinds of information, not relevant to each other, but each one was interesting and valuable. I liked the questions in tables. If properly thought over and answered by a teenager, they can give life direction.

[Jess Conley · Rating 3 out of 5]

I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway. There is a ton of great information to help young people. I was disappointed because I thought there would be more information about saving money/investing. Still, a lot of great information if the young person hasn't had strong/well adjusted adults teaching them along the way. The author really goes deep into basics.

[Brittney · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW, I wish I had this book when I left high school. Hahaha, I learned a few new life skills as an adult. In this book, Maya Shine holds the hand and walks the journey with a young adult into a world that might be foreign to someone.

I do not want to give the 11 powerful action steps away but each step was explained clearly. This is a book that I would love to bless a young person during their freshman year of high school. I wish there was a petition to sign that all schools carry this book in their library or even better to make this book mandatory requirement before graduation.


**Maya Shine, I would love it if you wrote a book on becoming a first-time mother and how to prepare. Thank you for the opportunity to read your book.

[Aimee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you so much for the free digital copy in return for a honest review. I read this with my niece that is a young adult and she gained so much financial knowledge out of this. I definitely recommend this to teens and or young adult adults.

[Christina McWain · Rating 5 out of 5]

Life skills

I think every young adult close to graduation should read this book. I think they could learn a lot from it!

[Stacy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I won this in a giveaway and was so excited to receive it. I got it for my teen and preteen kiddos to read. Havenct picked it up yet but hopefully soon! Big thank you to the author .

[Victoria B. · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very good way to supplement what's not being taught in school.

[Briann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very comprehensive. Included many details and facts. Well-organized and well-executed.

[Callan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a well organized book that lays out information that young adults truly need. The book blurb has a lot of word salad but the book itself is really well written in plain language that conveys information easily. It contains a lot of practical information that isn't taught well in schools, such as how to get and maintain credit, buy a car, and get a job. I'd recommend this to any young adult, and even some older adults that were obviously never taught important life lessons.

I received this through Goodreads giveaways.

[Amber · Rating 3 out of 5]

Received this in a giveaway. Read a few chapters and skimmed most of it.
The book contains some helpful points for a high school / college aged young adult might need to know.