Over the years I have read many books, fiction, and non-fiction. Here in this post, I will outline the names of the books that I found most informative and interesting.
I will categorize the books as follows:
Discovering yourself
The book, Autobiography of a Yogi, serves as a dual-purpose masterpiece. It not only presents a beautifully written account of an extraordinary life but also serves as a profound introduction to the ancient science of Yoga and its time-honored tradition of meditation. Through the author’s clear and concise explanations, the subtle yet definite laws governing both everyday occurrences and extraordinary events often referred to as miracles, are made comprehensible. The absorbing life story of the author is thus used as a backdrop to provide an insightful and unforgettable glimpse into the ultimate mysteries of human existence.
Social interaction
Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert B. Cialdini
Influence, an esteemed work on persuasion, delves into the psychology of why individuals tend to agree and how to effectively apply this knowledge. Dr. Robert Cialdini is an eminent authority in the burgeoning field of influence and persuasion. His extensive thirty-five-year research based on evidence, combined with a three-year program studying what motivates people to alter their actions, has resulted in this highly regarded book.
Within its pages, you will discover the six universal principles and how to utilize them to become an adept persuader, while also learning how to protect yourself against them. This valuable resource is suitable for people from all walks of life, as the principles outlined in Influence can catalyze meaningful personal growth and become a driving force behind your success.
Finance and Investing
The OUTSIDER by WILLIAM N THORNDIKE
John Templeton once said, “It is impossible to produce superior performance unless you do something different.” When considering the qualities of a successful CEO, many people may envision an experienced manager with extensive industry knowledge. Alternatively, some may highlight the traits of modern-day celebrity CEOs, such as charm, exceptional communication skills, and a confident leadership approach. However, what truly defines exceptional CEO performance? Ultimately, it is the long-term returns generated for the company’s shareholders that matter most when running an organization.
The Intelligent Investor by Benjamin Graham
In his signature common-sense style, Benjamin Graham concludes The Intelligent Investor with a succinct statement that encapsulates the book’s entire premise: “To achieve satisfactory investment results is easier than most people realize; to achieve superior results is harder than it looks.” He goes on to assert that the most significant gains in investing, as in the past, will come not from frequent buying and selling, but from owning and holding securities, receiving interest and dividends, and benefiting from their long-term increase in value.
Management
High output management by Andrew Grove
The art of entrepreneurship, which involves creating and sustaining new businesses, can be summarized in a single word: managing. In High Output Management, Andrew S. Grove, the former chairman and CEO (and third employee) of Intel, shares his perspective on how to establish and operate a company. Drawing on his experiences at one of America’s top technology firms, this legendary management book has become a staple in Silicon Valley, with relevance for sales managers, accountants, consultants, teachers, CEOs, and startup founders alike. Grove outlines techniques for building highly productive teams and demonstrates motivational strategies that can lead to peak performance. Throughout, High Output Management serves as a practical guidebook for navigating real-world business scenarios, as well as a powerful management manifesto capable of revolutionizing the way we work.