GAZAR

Reading Multipliers by Liz Wiseman and Greg McKeown made me pause and really think about what great leadership looks like. It’s a book that goes beyond traditional ideas of what a “strong leader” is supposed to be, showing us how the best leaders focus on bringing out the intelligence and capabilities of those around them. Wiseman defines these leaders as “Multipliers”—the ones who make others smarter, better, and more engaged. It’s a concept that completely reshapes the idea of leadership as a shared effort, rather than a hierarchy.

Reading The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel (in this summary by Tommy S. Meyers) felt like a fresh take on personal finance. It’s not just another guide to building wealth; it’s a deep dive into the psychology behind financial decisions, revealing why we make money choices the way we do and how those choices impact our lives in ways we might not even realize. Housel’s ideas emphasize that money is more about behavior than knowledge—a powerful insight that challenged my own assumptions about finance.

I recently picked up The Natural Order of Money by Roy Sebag, drawn in by the idea of exploring money from a perspective beyond economics—looking at it as a force shaped by natural order and human behavior. Sebag doesn’t just present another theory on finance; he dives into the philosophy of money itself, and how its role has been distorted by modern systems and values. This isn’t just a book about currency or investment but about understanding the essence of value and the flow of resources as they relate to human life and the natural world. I found it thought-provoking and unlike any other financial book I’ve read.

I picked up Work Smarter, Live Better by Joe Robinson because, like most of us, I’ve wrestled with the elusive balance between work and personal life. Robinson’s approach is refreshing, straightforward, and, most importantly, science-backed. He doesn’t just throw buzzwords around; he offers real strategies grounded in psychology, time management, and workplace studies that guide us to a place of genuine work-life balance. It’s a toolkit that feels adaptable and practical—something that could apply to anyone’s life, regardless of job or lifestyle.

Reading The End of the World Is Just the Beginning: Mapping the Collapse of Globalization by Peter Zeihan felt like getting a private briefing on the future. Zeihan doesn’t just sketch an overview—he goes deep into the systems and histories that underlie the global economy, diving into how geography, demographics, and energy needs could reshape the world. While the title hints at doom, Zeihan’s vision is both a warning and a revelation, pushing us to re-evaluate what we know about globalization and, in particular, how self-reliance will take on a whole new importance in the coming decades.

Shape Up: Stop Running in Circles and Ship Work That Matters by Ryan Singer, with insights from Jason Fried, is a book that rethinks project management and work culture in ways that feel practical, clear, and—most importantly—focused on delivering meaningful results. Created from real experience at Basecamp, Shape Up breaks the cycle of aimless planning and endless iterations. Instead, it introduces a structured, empowering way to tackle projects that bring value to both the team and the company. As someone who’s often felt stuck in project backlogs or arbitrary deadlines, this book gave me practical tools and a new perspective.

Raising Leaders: Using the Principles of Parenting at Work to Become a Great Leader and Create Great Leaders by Wendy Born takes a fresh perspective on leadership by linking it to parenting principles. It’s an approach that struck me as intuitive yet innovative—using qualities like empathy, guidance, and patience that we typically associate with parenting as essential tools for effective leadership. This book dives into what it means to lead in a way that inspires growth, trust, and resilience, both for ourselves and those we guide.

What is the meaning of life? That’s the question The Meaning of Life by The School of Life explores in a way that feels surprisingly down-to-earth, practical, and, perhaps most importantly, comforting. This isn’t your typical self-help book promising to unravel life’s ultimate purpose, but instead a carefully curated guide through the ideas, philosophies, and ways of thinking that can make our everyday lives feel more meaningful.

Reading this book felt like both an escape and a journey inward. Adams weaves together humor, philosophy, and sheer unpredictability in a way that only he could, creating a story that seems nonsensical at times but always manages to land some deeper truths. From Arthur Dent’s journey after Earth’s destruction to the strange and delightful adventures with Ford Prefect, Zaphod Beeblebrox, Trillian, and Marvin the depressed robot, each chapter left me wondering: what is “normal,” really? And do we even need to know the answer?

One of the things that struck me about Steven’s style is his directness. He doesn’t sugarcoat the struggles or romanticize success. He talks about the sleepless nights, the inner battles, and the moments of doubt, making this book relatable and refreshingly authentic. It’s a must-read if you’re looking for inspiration that’s rooted in real-world experience, not just theories or clichés.

Van Edwards has a unique approach. She breaks down charisma into cues we can consciously practice and apply, making it feel like a skill we can develop rather than a mysterious gift some people are just born with. For anyone looking to refine their personal or professional interactions, this book offers both the science and practical tools to become more intentional and impactful in how we communicate.

Staff Engineer by Will Larson is the book I wish I had come across earlier in my journey. As a software engineer, I’ve often found that most resources for growth seem heavily focused on the management track, leaving those of us who want to remain deeply technical without clear guidance. Larson’s book is a breath of fresh air—it’s direct, insightful, and most importantly, it treats technical leadership as a distinct, respected path.

The Like Switch by Jack Schafer and Marvin Karlins stood out as a fascinating exploration of the psychology behind building rapport and trust. It’s a book that dives into subtle communication cues, both verbal and nonverbal, that can make people warm up to you instantly. As someone curious about human interaction, I found Schafer’s insights on building connections both useful and eye-opening. He combines his experience as a former FBI agent with practical social techniques, making it a unique blend of psychological tactics and real-world advice.

For anyone who’s felt intimidated by the idea of charisma or thought it was unattainable, this book brings a refreshing perspective. It’s practical, research-backed, and reassuring in its message that anyone can be charismatic if they understand the components and put in a little effort.

I felt this book offered more than just entertainment; it was deeply educational and surprisingly moving. Below are my main takeaways, the parts that lingered with me long after I turned the final page.

This book brought out my fascination with ambition’s dark side, showing how something that starts with good intentions can spiral out of control. It’s a compelling look at how small ethical compromises can lead to catastrophic outcomes. Here are my main takeaways and personal reflections on why Bad Blood is more than just a business scandal; it’s a modern cautionary tale.

Reading Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek felt like looking behind the scenes of what really makes teams thrive. Sinek dives into the dynamics of effective leadership and what it takes to create a truly supportive, loyal team. It isn’t just about theory; Sinek offers a detailed look into the biology and psychology of trust, safety, and the behaviors that make people feel like they’re part of something bigger than themselves.

Reading Digital Minimalism: Choosing a Focused Life in a Noisy World by Cal Newport was like having a friend call me out on a bad habit I hadn’t quite admitted to myself. Newport dives deep into our digital habits, confronting the endless pull of social media, notifications, and digital distractions that so often eat up our time and attention. This book isn’t just about using tech less; it’s about using it purposefully, aligning digital choices with the kind of life you actually want.

Walker, a neuroscientist and sleep researcher, uncovers sleep’s role in almost every function of our lives: our health, learning, memory, creativity, and even emotional resilience. With research-backed insights and a sense of urgency, he makes a powerful case for why sleep should be a top priority in our lives. Here’s a breakdown of what hit home for me and why this book made me rethink my entire approach to sleep.

Reading Guns, Germs, and Steel by Jared Diamond felt like peeling back layers of human history that I never thought to question. It’s a sweeping narrative that takes us from the dawn of civilization to today, asking: Why did some societies thrive while others struggled? Why did European powers conquer so much of the world? And, perhaps most importantly, are these outcomes due to inherent differences between people, or is there something else at play? Diamond makes it clear it’s not about personal or cultural superiority, but rather the influences of geography, climate, and the natural world.

Reading Ego Is the Enemy by Ryan Holiday was like holding a mirror up to some uncomfortable truths about myself. Holiday doesn’t coddle; he dives straight into dissecting the ways our ego quietly—and sometimes loudly—undermines our progress, relationships, and character. What makes the book so powerful is its blend of philosophy, personal stories, and hard-hitting reminders that ego, if left unchecked, can be the silent enemy standing in our way.

Reading Quiet by Susan Cain felt like a comforting nod of understanding, especially if you've ever felt the pressure to be louder or more outgoing in an extrovert-favoring world. Cain dives deeply into the strengths, inner workings, and cultural impact of introversion, making it feel like a celebration of quiet strength. For anyone who identifies as an introvert—or knows and loves one—this book sheds light on the hidden power in those who think, reflect, and find energy in solitude.

When I picked up The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason, I didn’t know quite what to expect. Financial advice books can sometimes feel heavy or complex, but this one, written in parables set in ancient Babylon, was surprisingly different. Clason’s use of storytelling made age-old principles feel almost poetic, and the lessons felt as applicable to our modern lives as they were to the people of Babylon. This is not a book about quick riches; instead, it teaches the values of financial discipline, patience, and wisdom through simple, memorable stories.

The Durants don't merely recount historical events. Instead, they focus on universal themes—power, freedom, progress, and human nature—making this book not just a reflection on the past, but a guide to understanding the present. Here are the key takeaways from The Lessons of History and how it resonated with me personally, shedding light on questions I didn't even know I had about life, society, and the human experience.

Reading On the Meaning of Life by Will Durant felt like having a deep conversation with a wise friend who has spent a lifetime pondering the big questions. Durant, a philosopher and historian, wrote this essay in response to the letters he received during the Great Depression, where people sought answers to what makes life worth living. This short but powerful book explores existential questions in a way that is surprisingly hopeful, inviting us to think about purpose and meaning beyond material success or fleeting happiness.

Reading On Writing Well by William Zinsser was like sitting down with a seasoned mentor who not only knows the craft of writing inside and out but also believes in it deeply. Zinsser's straightforward approach to writing nonfiction makes this book both a practical manual and an inspiring read. His advice resonates because it's not just technical; it's philosophical. He’s not just teaching us how to write well—he’s showing us why it matters.

Reading Dare to Lead by Brené Brown felt like sitting down with a trusted mentor who understands the challenges, insecurities, and joys of leadership at a deeply human level. Brown’s work is built on research, but she presents it in a way that feels grounded and real, as if she’s been through every experience she describes. Her focus on courage, vulnerability, and the importance of meaningful connections offers a refreshing perspective on what it truly means to lead.

Reading The Story of Philosophy by Bryan Magee was like taking a journey through the greatest ideas that humanity has ever produced. Magee doesn’t just present philosophy as a collection of thoughts but as a dynamic exploration of the human spirit, a testament to our desire to understand life’s mysteries. Through Magee’s writing, these grand ideas come to life with clarity and relevance, making them accessible to anyone curious about philosophy, whether they’re seasoned readers or complete newcomers.

The 4-Hour Workweek by Timothy Ferriss is one of those books that makes you question everything you thought you knew about work, success, and lifestyle. It’s not your typical productivity book; instead, it’s a bold challenge to the traditional 9-to-5 grind. Ferriss’s approach isn’t just about working less—it’s about rethinking what we want out of life and designing a way to achieve it.

Reading The Artist's Way at Work felt like a much-needed invitation to pause and reconnect with a part of myself that often gets buried in the day-to-day grind—my creativity. Written by Mark Bryan, Julia Cameron, and Catherine A. Allen, the book expands on the original The Artist’s Way, but this time with a focus on how creativity fits into our professional lives. It’s an insightful guide for anyone feeling drained by the routines of work or for those simply wanting to bring a spark of creativity back into their lives.

"On Becoming a Leader" by Warren Bennis is a thoughtful, timeless piece on what it takes to be a true leader—not just in the workplace but in life. For anyone who feels the weight of leadership on their shoulders or wonders what makes a good leader stand apart, Bennis has some enlightening perspectives. I didn’t just read this book; I felt like I was absorbing it, connecting with each page as if it was personally calling me to rethink my understanding of leadership.

Reading "Learn Better" felt like opening the hood of my brain and finally understanding how its learning engine works. As someone who's always been passionate about self-improvement and continuous learning, Boser's practical approach to understanding how we learn resonated deeply with my own experiences and challenged many of my long-held beliefs about education.

As a reader fascinated by both psychology and philosophy, diving into Yalom's "When Nietzsche Wept" felt like watching two intellectual titans dance across the pages of history. This fictional encounter between Friedrich Nietzsche and Josef Breuer isn't just another historical novel – it's a profound exploration of the human psyche that left me questioning my own approaches to suffering, meaning, and healing.

Reading Steven Johnson's "Where Good Ideas Come From: The Natural History of Innovation" felt like finally finding the missing piece to a puzzle I've been trying to solve throughout my career. As someone who's always been fascinated by the creative process, this book hit differently – it wasn't just another innovation manual, but rather a profound exploration of how breakthrough ideas actually emerge in both nature and culture.

Reading Start with Why felt like discovering a compass for purpose-driven action in leadership and life. Simon Sinek, through powerful insights and real-world examples, emphasizes the importance of understanding our “Why”—the core purpose or belief that drives us. In a world that often prioritizes what we do or how we do it, Sinek argues that it’s only by starting with why that we inspire and lead effectively.

Michael Pollan’s In Defense of Food is a refreshing, thought-provoking dive into the world of modern eating and its many pitfalls. As a response to the overwhelming complexity of food science and diet trends, Pollan offers a simple mantra: “Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants.” This manifesto serves as a guide to healthier, more intentional eating and a critique of our culture's obsession with nutritional science, processed foods, and food industry marketing.

Reading Factfulness was a bit of a revelation for me. Hans Rosling, along with Ola and Anna Rosling Rönnlund, dives deep into how and why our views of the world are often skewed toward the negative, even when things aren’t as bleak as they seem. This book is a journey through the biases and misconceptions that cloud our perception of the world, making it feel far more chaotic and hopeless than it actually is. With practical insights and engaging storytelling, Factfulness encourages us to think critically and see the world through a more realistic and hopeful lens.

Seth Godin’s We Are All Weird struck a chord with me. It’s a celebration of the beauty of individuality and the end of “normal” as we know it. Godin explores how the internet and global connectivity have empowered people to connect through unique interests and passions, forming “tribes” that break away from the mainstream. Through this lens, he shows us that being weird—meaning authentically ourselves—is no longer something to hide but a new way to thrive.

Reading Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki felt like sitting down for a conversation about money that I’d always needed but never actually had. It’s a book about the habits and mindsets that separate the financially successful from those who struggle, framed around Kiyosaki’s personal experiences growing up with two “dads”: his biological father (his “Poor Dad”) and the father of his best friend (his “Rich Dad”). Through their contrasting approaches to money, Kiyosaki demonstrates the impact of financial education on life choices, security, and independence.

The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz is a timeless guide to personal freedom and spiritual growth, blending ancient Toltec wisdom with a powerful, practical philosophy for life. Ruiz presents four fundamental "agreements" to live by, each one a principle to help cultivate inner peace and clarity. Simple yet profound, these agreements serve as reminders to strip away layers of self-limiting beliefs and unnecessary suffering.

Rolf Dobelli’s The Art of Thinking Clearly is an insightful, eye-opening exploration into the many cognitive biases and mental pitfalls that cloud human judgment. In a world where decisions shape every aspect of our lives, Dobelli's book serves as a much-needed guide to recognizing and overcoming the cognitive errors we unknowingly make every day. This book distills complex concepts into short, digestible chapters, each addressing a different cognitive bias and offering real-world examples and applications.

Darren Hardy’s The Entrepreneur Roller Coaster dives into the exhilarating, unpredictable world of entrepreneurship with refreshing honesty. This book isn’t just about the rewards of starting your own business; it’s an in-depth look at the mental and emotional journey required to succeed. Hardy, a seasoned entrepreneur himself, understands the highs and lows that come with the territory and doesn’t shy away from discussing both the challenges and the rewards of the entrepreneurial path.

Paulo Coelho's The Alchemist is a mesmerizing tale that transcends the boundaries of time and culture, weaving a narrative that speaks to the heart and soul of every reader. This enchanting novel follows the journey of Santiago, a young shepherd from Andalusia, as he embarks on a quest to discover his personal legend and fulfill his dreams. Coelho masterfully captures the essence of the human experience—our aspirations, fears, and the profound lessons we learn along the way.

Rob Fitzpatrick’s The Mom Test is a vital read for anyone involved in entrepreneurship, product development, or customer research. In a landscape filled with well-meaning feedback that often skews toward politeness rather than honesty, Fitzpatrick provides a practical guide to uncovering the real insights needed to assess the viability of a business idea.

George Orwell’s Animal Farm is a timeless allegory that resonates deeply with readers, and the illustrated edition by Chris Mould adds a compelling visual dimension to this classic tale. At its core, Animal Farm is a poignant exploration of power, corruption, and the cyclical nature of tyranny, told through the lens of a group of farm animals who overthrow their human owner in hopes of creating a society built on equality.

J. Allan Danelek’s Atlantis: Lessons from the Lost Continent is a captivating exploration of the myths, theories, and possible realities surrounding the legend of Atlantis. From the start, Danelek draws you into a world where history meets speculation, blending archaeology, myth, and imagination to uncover not just the mystery of a lost continent but what it could mean for our understanding of human civilization.

Reading Stephen R. Covey’s The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People was a transformative experience, bringing both clarity and purpose to my approach to personal and professional growth. Covey’s insights into effectiveness are both timeless and universally applicable, which is why this book has endured as a classic in self-improvement and leadership.

Eloquent JavaScript by Marijn Haverbeke is one of those cornerstone books that has shaped my approach to programming, especially in JavaScript. This book is more than just a technical manual; it’s a comprehensive guide that blends the art and science of coding with practical, real-world insights. Right from the start, Haverbeke captures what it means to think programmatically, setting the stage for both beginners and seasoned developers.

Spencer Johnson’s Who Moved My Cheese? is one of those rare books that confronts the essence of change and our personal responses to it with surprising simplicity. Despite its concise length, the book offers profound insights on how we handle transitions, both in our professional and personal lives.

When diving into Node.js, Hands-on Node.js by Pedro Teixeira is one of those resources that feels like a robust, grounded companion, guiding you through each stage of development. As someone who has explored various Node.js resources, this book struck me with its clarity and practicality, especially for developers seeking a hands-on approach.

After reading MONEY: Master the Game: 7 Simple Steps to Financial Freedom by Tony Robbins, I feel empowered and equipped with practical tools to take control of my financial future. Robbins presents an accessible yet profound approach to personal finance that resonates with both beginners and those looking to refine their financial strategies.

After reading The Artist's Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity by Julia Cameron, I found myself embarking on a transformative journey into the depths of my creativity. This book is more than just a guide; it’s a spiritual roadmap designed to help artists of all kinds reconnect with their creative selves.

After reading Succeeding with Agile: Software Development Using Scrum by Mike Cohn, I feel empowered with a comprehensive understanding of how to implement and succeed with Scrum in software development. Cohn's insights are not only practical but also deeply insightful, making this book an essential read for anyone looking to embrace agile methodologies effectively.

After reading Agile Estimating and Planning by Mike Cohn from the Robert C. Martin Series, I feel like I’ve gained a deeper understanding of how to navigate the complexities of agile project management. Cohn's insights on estimation and planning are not only practical but also crucial for anyone looking to implement agile methodologies effectively.

After reading React in Patterns by Krasimir Tsonev, I feel more equipped to tackle the complexities of building applications with React. This book presents a well-structured approach to React development, emphasizing the importance of patterns in creating scalable and maintainable code.

After reading Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Techniques for Retraining Your Brain by Jason M. Satterfield, I emerged with a deeper understanding of how our thoughts shape our emotions and behaviors. Satterfield presents cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) in an approachable and relatable manner, making it accessible for anyone interested in enhancing their mental health.

After finishing Professor Frisby's Mostly Adequate Guide to Functional Programming by Brian Lonsdorf, I can confidently say that this book is a delightful and engaging introduction to functional programming (FP). Lonsdorf’s approach combines humor, clarity, and practical examples, making complex concepts accessible and enjoyable to learn.

After diving into Remote: Office Not Required by David Heinemeier Hansson and Jason Fried, narrated by Rebecca Lowman, I felt a profound shift in my perspective on remote work. This book is an eye-opener, debunking the myths surrounding traditional office environments and advocating for the flexibility that remote work offers.

Having just finished Rework by Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson, I found myself invigorated by their bold and refreshing take on business. This book challenges nearly every conventional notion about what it means to be successful, and I appreciated its straightforward, no-nonsense approach.

Alice Walker’s The Color Purple is a powerful, unflinching portrayal of resilience, self-discovery, and the transformative power of love and friendship. Through letters and intimate storytelling, Walker captures the painful journey of Celie, an African-American woman in the American South, who learns to find her voice and her strength in a world marred by violence, oppression, and hardship.

Khaled Hosseini’s The Kite Runner invites readers into an Afghanistan before the shadows of war, as seen through the eyes of a young boy named Amir. This is not simply a story of childhood and innocence; it’s a tale of friendship marked by betrayal, guilt, and ultimately, redemption.

Blindness, by José Saramago and translated by Giovanni Pontiero, delivers an intense, allegorical story that explores the terrifying consequences of a sudden epidemic of blindness in an unnamed city. Saramago’s style, at once dense and fluid, plunges readers into a society unraveling as blindness spreads like a contagion, stripping people of the pretense and structure of their ordered lives. Without names or distinguishing traits, his characters function almost as embodiments of humanity’s most base and noble instincts.

As a software engineer navigating the complex landscape of career growth, Staff Engineer: Leadership Beyond the Management Track by Will Larson resonated with me on many levels. For anyone who’s reached that crossroads where climbing the ladder means choosing between the technical and managerial paths, this book offers invaluable insights. With a foreword by Tanya Reilly, it sheds light on a journey often less discussed yet vitally important for technical leaders.

When software evolves, code tends to grow messy. Over time, features pile up, bugs creep in, and the structure becomes more difficult to manage. Enter refactoring, a systematic approach to improving the design of existing code without altering its external behaviour.

In the world of web development, few books have made as lasting an impact as JavaScript: The Good Parts by Douglas Crockford. Published in 2008, this slim volume has managed to stay relevant even as JavaScript has evolved, largely due to Crockford’s keen insights and ability to distill the language down to its essence.

Man’s Search for Meaning is more than just a memoir; it’s a powerful exploration of the human spirit and its capacity to find purpose even in the darkest of times. Viktor Frankl, a Holocaust survivor, recounts his harrowing experiences in Nazi concentration camps, but what makes the book so remarkable is not just the suffering he endured, but the lessons he drew from it.

Morrie is dying from ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. What unfolds between them is a series of candid and deeply moving conversations every Tuesday, touching on life’s most essential lessons. These conversations are framed almost like their final thesis, a last masterclass that Morrie narrates from the brink of death.

Jonathan Livingston Seagull by Richard Bach is a timeless fable about the pursuit of freedom and self-perfection. First published in 1970 and reissued in 2014 with a new fourth part, this novella tells the story of Jonathan, a seagull who rejects the mundane life of his flock in favor of mastering flight.

In Good to Great, Jim Collins delves into one of the most pressing questions in the world of business: What differentiates truly great companies from merely good ones? With meticulous research spanning five years, Collins and his team examined 1,435 companies, ultimately identifying a small group of 11 companies that made the leap from being good to becoming great.

Iron John by Robert Bly is often hailed as a seminal work on masculinity, and I don't think I can overstate the importance of this book for every man. It feels like a deep "poem" about manhood, full of metaphors, myths, and emotional truths. Pairing "masculine" with "poem" might seem unusual, but it's a combination rich with meaning. As Bly himself implies, masculinity isn't about rigidity; true masculinity must allow itself to "shudder"—to feel deeply.

Seth Godin's Purple Cow delivers a compelling message for businesses of all sizes: being "good" is no longer good enough. If you want to thrive in today’s crowded marketplace, you must be remarkable. But what does that mean? Godin believes that, like spotting a purple cow in a field of ordinary brown ones, your business or product needs to stand out and capture attention in an unforgettable way.

Getting Real by Jason Fried is a no-nonsense guide on how to build web applications the smart way. Unlike their book Rework, this one actually makes sense. It’s packed with practical advice that goes beyond just web apps—I’d even say a lot of it could be applied to other projects or industries too.