Trying to be a happy, healthy, and responsible adult in this cruel world comes with a handful of hurdles here and there (okay, everywhere, actually). Fortunately, you’re not the only pawn in the game called “pretending-to-be-a-mature-functioning-member-of-society.” And if you want to win, you just have to keep going.

So when you’re done breaking down in tears for the nth time (hey, no judging!), you might want to pick up these books. They could make adulting a bit more bearable for you… sort of.

“Broke Millennial: Stop Scraping by and Get your Financial Life Together” by Erin Lowry

A refreshing and easy-to-understand finance book written by (surprisingly hilarious) money expert Erin Lowry for 20- and 30-somethings struggling with cash, “Broke Millennial: Stop Scraping by and Get your Financial Life Together” will help you achieve financial badass status through smart and savvy how-tos and engaging real-life examples of sticky moolah-related situations.

“How To Cook Everything: Simple Recipes for Great Food” by Mark Bittman

If you’re not gifted by the culinary gods and live on fast food take-outs, it’s about time you meet Uncle Mark. “How To Cook Everything: Simple Recipes for Great Food” by renowned food writer Mark Bittman is a one-stop cooking reference book perfect for beginners in the kitchen. This no-fuss digest will walk you through everything you need to know about cooking – from basic kitchen equipment to making your own meals from scratch.

“Off Track Planet’s Travel Guide for the Young, Sexy, and Broke” by Off Track Planet

For when you want to go #YOLO, “Off Track Planet’s Travel Guide for the Young, Sexy, and Broke” is the ultimate companion for your much-needed walwal trip to the most exotic and exciting places on earth. Skim its pages to find out where you can get the best tattoos (no ragrets!), outrageous yet delicious street food, and unforgettable experiences while staying safe and getting by on a shoestring travel budget.

“My Boyfriend Barfed in My Handbag… and Other Things You Can’t Ask Martha” by Jolie Kerr

For all the mess you’ll have to deal with in your adulting phase, “My Boyfriend Barfed in My Handbag… and Other Things You Can’t Ask Martha” by columnist Jolie Kerr is an all-encompassing and humorous guide to ridding your life of annoying spills, odors, and embarrassing stains you’d rather not talk about (we don’t know how it got there either *winks*). And just in case you’re wondering who the hell Martha is, the author is referring to DIY fairy godmother Martha Stewart.

“Things Are What You Make of Them: Life Advice for Creatives” by Adam J. Kurtz

For dreamers and creatives who need a boost, artist Adam J. Kurtz offers this handwritten little book packed with wisdom, empathy, and just the right amount of cheekiness. The pages are also perforated, so you could pull them out and pin them wherever you wish for a daily boost.

“Am I There Yet? The Loop-De-Loop, Zigzagging Journey to Adulthood” by Mari Andrew

From writer and illustrator Mari Andrew comes this delightfully doodle-y book in which she bares all the struggles and simple joys she experienced growing up. Featuring original artwork and heartwarming essays, “Am I There Yet? The Loop-De-Loop, Zigzagging Journey to Adulthood” will make you feel like you have a friend in the bumpy ride that is adulting.

“Adulting: How To Become a Grown-up in 468 Easy(ish) Steps” by Kelly Williams Brown

Kelly Williams Brown wasn’t lying when she said she will give you 468 easy(ish) steps on how to become a grown-up. This wry yet helpful handbook to solving your adulting woes – from cutting ties with toxic people in your life to car maintenance – is the confidante you didn’t know you needed… until now, that is!

“Adulthood is a Myth (Sarah’s Scribbles #1)” by Sarah Andersen

We wouldn’t be surprised if you find this book familiar. Sarah Andersen’s comic strips are all over our feeds, too! Her brutally honest illustrations of the horrors, awkward moments, and little hurrahs that young adults experience are nothing short of relatable and, yes, shareable! Grab this book when you need a good laugh.

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