Books

A collection of books that I enjoyed, including stories I've read to my kids, listed in no particular order. These aren't formal recommendations, but I hope you find something here that sparks your interest.

Inspired by Naval Ravikant, I read for ideas and themes, not just titles or authors. I don't always finish every book; if it's not adding value, I'm okay with putting it down. My goal isn't to read a certain number of books, but to learn and grow.

I stick to physical books only (no e-readers or audiobooks), so I can get off screens and set a good example for my kids. After all, kids tend to imitate what they see, not just what they're told.

Last updated: April 27, 2024

Atomic Habits by James Clear

Themes: Self-improvement, Productivity, Mindset

This book kickstarted my journey back into reading—even if it took me over a year to finish, mostly because I bought it, set it aside, and forgot about it for a while. Once I finally got into it, it helped me build new habits and let go of old ones, even though I still struggle at times. It provided a clear framework for moving in the right direction.

The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel

Themes: Personal Finance, Psychology, Decision Making

This book changed how I think about money and investing. Its insights into the psychology behind financial decisions are both eye-opening and relatable. It has had a positive impact on my relationship with money and honestly helps me sleep better at night.

The Almanack of Naval Ravikant by Eric Jorgenson

Themes: Wealth, Happiness, Philosophy

One of the best books I've read. So many great ideas and lessons. I have listened to his podcasts as well and always come away with something to think about.

Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman

Themes: Psychology, Decision Making

This book made me feel smarter when I finished it. It helped me understand biases, heuristics, and more broadly, how our brains work. It’s a great resource for anyone interested in improving their thinking and decision-making skills.

Thinking in Systems by Donella H. Meadows

Themes: Systems Thinking, Problem Solving, Complexity

This book offers a practical framework for understanding complex systems in the world around us. Systems thinking has helped me see patterns that are often hidden in both personal and professional contexts.

The Power of Your Subconscious Mind Cover

The Power of Your Subconscious Mind by Joseph Murphy

Themes: Psychology, Self-help, Happiness

A classic in the field of personal development, this book explores how our subconscious mind shapes our reality. It helped me understand how my thoughts influenced my actions and outcomes. From it, I derived a list of personal mantras that I repeat whenever I need a boost.

The Happiness Advantage by Shawn Achor

Themes: Positive Psychology, Happiness, Success

Happiness is a choice. Success comes from happiness, not the other way around.

The Staff Engineer's Path by Tanya Reilly

Themes: Engineering Leadership, Career Development

I’m glad I picked up this book as my first career-related read. The staff engineer role is broad and often vague, differing between companies and teams, but this book helped me define what it means in my context and how to grow from there. As I read, a lot of things clicked-especially around evaluating my work for impact rather than just taking on side quests.

The Software Engineer's Guidebook by Gergely Orosz

Themes: Software Engineering, Career Development, Technical Skills

This book covers the full range of software engineering levels. Since I’m already at staff level, I skimmed the earlier sections, but found the later chapters more relevant. What stood out to me is how the book goes beyond just coding, diving into the broader responsibilities and intangible skills needed for a successful career-like collaboration, leadership, and impact.

I Will Teach You To Be Rich by Ramit Sethi

Themes: Personal Finance, Money Management, Investing

A no-nonsense guide to taking control of your personal finances. It breaks down complex ideas into simple, actionable steps, with clear checklists at the end of each chapter. Having read it after years of interest in finance, it reinforced good habits and showed how automating basics gets you most of the way there. It also encourages you to optimize your spending for what matters most to you, rather than just cutting costs everywhere.If I’d read this earlier, it would’ve been a game changer.