As Ravikant once said: “Learn to love to read, and all human knowledge is available to you right now.” He admits that mindful reading is one of the key instruments that can help us succeed in life. His philosophy often draws from the wisdom of great books, making his reading recommendations invaluable for anyone seeking personal and professional growth.
1. The Rational Optimist by Matt Ridley
In The Rational Optimist, Matt Ridley argues that human progress is driven by innovation and collaboration. He presents a compelling case for optimism about the future. Naval appreciates the book’s emphasis on how trade and technological advancements have consistently improved living standards. This book offers a refreshing perspective for those who tend to focus on the challenges of modern life. Matt Ridley combines evolution theory with economics and explains how human cooperation led us to the advancements we have these days.
2. Skin in the Game by Nassim Taleb
Nassim Taleb’s Skin in the Game explores the importance of accountability and risk-taking in decision-making. Nassim Nicholas Taleb often frames Skin in the Game as part of a trilogy with The Black Swan and Antifragile, each book building on the ideas of the previous one. He argues that those making decisions must bear the consequences of their actions. The principle is simple — If you have no skin in the game, you shouldn’t be in the game. Taleb critiques figures like bankers, who profited without accountability during the 2008 financial crisis. Taleb advocates for systems where failure results in personal loss, ensuring responsible decision-making and learning from mistakes.
3. Poor Charlie’s Almanack by Charles T. Munger
Poor Charlie’s Almanack is a collection of speeches and essays by Charlie Munger, Warren Buffett’s longtime business partner. The book reveals Munger’s wisdom, combining practical advice with timeless philosophical insights. It is an encyclopedia of business, finance, philosophy, history, and ethics. You will learn about effective mental models that helped Charlie Munger’s rational and rigorous approach to life, learning, and decision-making.
4. Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari
Just imagine that one book covers a mind-blowing 13.5 billion years of pre-history and history. In Sapiens, Yuval Noah Harari explores the history of humanity, from hunter-gatherer societies to the present day. He reveals how the first bread was made, how the first religions were formed, and answers to almost all questions you might have about mankind. It is a deep exploration of human culture, economics, and technology. It’s a must-read for anyone seeking a broad understanding of humanity’s past and the forces that shape our future. For a full overview, check out our Sapiens summary.
5. The Last Question by Isaac Asimov
Some claim that Isaac Asimov was the most prolific science fiction author of all time. His short story The Last Question is considered to be the best short story ever written. It reaches upon topics like humanity’s desire for knowledge and the ultimate fate of the universe. Sounds interesting, doesn’t it? It’s a brief but impactful read that will leave you thinking it over for days. Grab a coffee and try to understand this very symbolic and unique writing!
6. The Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself by Michael Singer
Michael Singer’s The Untethered Soul is a guide to achieving inner peace by letting go of negative thoughts and emotions. This isn’t a book about success in the usual meaning, but rather a success of your inner self. It explains how to transform your relationship with yourself and the world around you. The book is a perfect guideline with effective strategies and easy practices you can implement easily in your daily life. You can explore more insights in our The Untethered Soul summary.
7. Tools of Titans by Timothy Ferriss
Tools of Titans by Tim Ferriss is a productivity-packed guide with tips, routines, and wisdom from high-achievers like LinkedIn’s Reid Hoffman and actor Kevin Costner. Divided into Healthy, Wealthy, and Wise, the book offers life hacks for everything from fasting to productivity tools and unconventional practices. Ferriss’ style reflects Silicon Valley’s intense self-optimization culture and reflects a mind of billionaires. Those seeking a buffet of actionable advice will enjoy this 650-page manual for personal and professional growth. For key takeaways, check out our Tools of Titans summary.
8. The Sovereign Individual by William Rees-Mogg and James Dale Davidson
The Sovereign Individual examines how the information age is reshaping economics, politics, and society. The authors explore the life of informational society and how it transformed throughout the years. It’s a fascinating read for those interested in the intersection of technology and societal evolution. The pages of the book also hide some insights into the future.
9. The Book of Life: Daily Meditations with Krishnamurti by J. Krishnamurti
This is a gem with 365 meditations in it! The Book of Life offers daily reflections on mindfulness, self-awareness, and the art of living. Naval values the timeless wisdom of J. Krishnamurti. Krishnamurti believed that every aspect of life is interconnected, so his meditations cover versatile topics like self-knowledge, fear, love, and freedom. This book is ideal for those looking for a mindful, reflective approach to life. It will help you to reduce stress and grow as a person.
10. Antifragile: Things That Gain from Disorder by Nassim Nicholas Taleb
This is another masterpiece of Nicholas Taleb that perfectly accompanies the previously discussed Skin in the Game. In Antifragile, Nassim Taleb explores how systems can thrive under volatility and stress. He categorizes the world into three types: the fragile, which crumbles under chaos; the robust, which endures shocks unscathed; and the antifragile, which thrives and grows stronger through disruption. Taleb challenges readers to embrace the latter, arguing that disorder fuels creativity and adaptation. It is a great read to rethink how we manage life's uncertainties.
As versatile as Naval Ravikant is, this list will equip you with all the necessary skills and knowledge to upgrade you both professionally and personally. Modern life is very complex and challenging, so we need to constantly learn and improve ourselves. This set of books is full of the most urgent and relevant recommendations that will teach you how to develop your business, build relationships, and find peace with your inner self.
