If you want to read more in 2024, these are the books that I enjoyed most in 2023 that I think you should start with!
Feel-Good Productivity: How to Do More of What Matters to You By Ali Abdaal
Ali has been one of my favorite YouTubers for a long time, so when he announced he was writing a book, I immediately pre-ordered. I got it on Monday and finished it today (Friday). I loved it. It was a nice, positive spin on the topic of productivity. I've read too many books on the topic, but this one resonates.
Discipline Is Destiny by Ryan Holliday
Holiday is a genius and this book is brilliant. He does a fantastic job of referencing the stoics and works of the great minds of history and creates something new from ancient philosophy. Reading a Holiday book feels like you're reading a new piece of writing from the most impactful people of all time like Plato, Marcus Aurelius and Socrates.
This book focuses on the power of discipline and self-control and includes fascinating stories from badasses of history like Lou Gerhig, Queen Elizabeth II and Toni Morrison.
Hidden Potential by Adam Grant
An inspiring book that pushes the premise that talent is overrated and most of us are underachieving as a result of believing we lack what it takes. This book would make an amazing gift for a high school or college graduate.
Sigh... Honestly, I hate even putting this on here because it's so cliche at this point and most of you have read it, but if you haven't, congratulations! It will be one of the best books you've ever read on the topic of practical self-development.
Hidden Genius by Polina Marinova Pompliano
This book was an easy read because of all the stories inside of it. Instead of the author lecturing to us, she uses stories from others that showcase deeper points in very interesting ways.
Same as Ever: A Guide to What Never Changes by Morgan Housel
The world is moving fast. This book argues that the most important things though are the ones that are never going to change. I found it to be wildly insightful and changed my perspective on the direction of where we're headed.
This book is all over the place. If you don't buy into the idea that Naval is a genius (I believe he is) you'll not like this book. It's essentially his manifesto for life. A collection of all the nuggets of wisdom, organized enough to flow like a book. I enjoyed it, but fair warning, I found the audible narrator's voice to be borderline torturous. Probably skip the audiobook and read this one yourself.
Skip the Line by James Altucher
Altucher is a scattered genius. He constantly ebbs and flows between massive success and massive failure. His experiences combined with his ability to articulate them provide a great deal of value. I identify very much with his personality type, and if you do too, this may be one of your favorite books ever.
The Psychology of Money Morgan Housel
This isn't a budgeting or financial advice book, it's much more valuable than that. This is one of those books that could be read in grade school or grad school and still have the same meaning and value. An absolute gem that will go down as an all time classic on the topic that ties us all together, money.
Dopamine Nation: Finding Balance in the Age of Indulgence by Anna Lembke
Dopamine rules our world. This book dives into it in ways I hadn't ever thought about. It will change the way you view pleasure and pain.