Reading for Success

Jim Rohn once said, "Reading is essential for those who seek to rise above the ordinary." We all know that reading improves our intelligence. Regular readers have a stronger vocabulary, a deep comprehension of various topics and situations, and even higher levels of emotional intelligence, according to science.

With that in mind, we've curated a list of top books that you can read to improve your intelligence. These books cover a wide range of themes and will not only entertain you but also educate you. So, let's dive in!

1. Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill: Napoleon Hill's book, "Think and Grow Rich," is one of the best-selling books of all time. It delves into the psychological power of thinking and the mindset you need to advance both professionally and personally. This is a must-read for investors and entrepreneurs alike. It focuses on the essential aspects that make someone successful in any endeavor. It's not just about getting money; it's about understanding the fundamental factors that lead to success.

2. The Four-Hour Work Week by Timothy Ferriss: "The Four-Hour Work Week" shows you how to gain more time and financial independence, allowing you to live a flexible lifestyle without waiting for retirement. Ferriss teaches you how to automate passive income and free yourself from useless duties. This book will make you more effective in your daily actions, teaching you to be efficient without sacrificing quality.

3. The Art of War by Sun Tzu: "The Art of War" is popular for a reason—it has stood the test of time. It offers invaluable insights on knowing when to fight and when to avoid fighting, understanding your strengths and weaknesses, and even fooling your adversaries. While primarily about human conflict, Sun Tzu's teachings extend to all aspects of human interaction, from business and marketing to everyday relationships. Top executives and managers consider this book required reading for understanding human dynamics.

4. Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman: "Thinking, Fast and Slow" is an excellent book that teaches you how to think in different circumstances. Kahneman explores the two modes of thought: the quick, impulsive, and emotive system one, and the slower, more deliberate, and rational system two. This book will transform the way you think, helping you understand the differences between emotional and rational cognition.

5. A Brief History of Nearly Everything by Bill Bryson: If you're intrigued by our world and universe, "A Brief History of Nearly Everything" is a must-read. Bryson explores everything we've discovered so far about our planet and the universe, including their origins, our understanding of time, space, and gravity, and the mysteries that still elude us. This best-selling popular science book will leave you smarter and more curious about life and the cosmos.

6. From Good to Great by Jim Collins: What sets a clever individual apart from the rest? "From Good to Great" answers this question and more. Collins presents a helpful model that ties together various theories in a meaningful and memorable way. By hiring the right people, dismissing the wrong ones, and developing competent leaders, you can break through the boundaries that hold companies back. Implementing the principles from this book in your life will improve your discipline and show you the power of smart scheduling and proper plan implementation.

7. The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business by Charles Duhigg "The Power of Habit" explains why habits lie at the core of our actions and how we can alter them to transform our lives, careers, and society. Understanding why we do what we do and how our habits affect us is crucial. The book provides a simple model—cue, routine, reward—to help us understand habit development and change. By changing the routine while keeping the same signal and reward, we can effectively transform our habits.

8. Think Like a Freak by Stephen D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner: "Think Like a Freak" challenges conventional wisdom and teaches you how to come up with your own scientifically confirmed solutions. Shifting your viewpoint and adjusting the way you think and make decisions are key aspects of increasing your intelligence. This book provides various examples of how different individuals think, inspiring you to start thinking differently yourself. It's a recommended read for professionals in innovation, business, and marketing.

9. Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari: "Sapiens" takes you on a journey through the birth and development of humanity. It explores the advantages that led Homo sapiens to become the only surviving species among the multiple human species that once existed. Harari combines history and science to challenge traditional narratives and shed light on our modern challenges. From assessing our impact on the environment to understanding the emergence of empires, this book offers profound insights.

10. Smarter Faster Better by Charles Duhigg: If you want to make better decisions in less time, "Smarter Faster Better" is a must-read. Duhigg focuses on eight important productivity ideas that can enhance your wisdom. Through intriguing stories and figures, this book teaches you how to find inspiration, set goals, and manage people effectively. It's a valuable resource for boosting productivity, whether in your personal life or business.

11. Brief Answers to the Big Questions by Stephen Hawking: Even if you're not a science enthusiast, "Brief Answers to the Big Questions" deserves a spot on your reading list. Hawking tackles the fundamental rules that govern the cosmos and the future of humanity. With his signature dry wit, he provides a rudimentary understanding of complex issues and addresses some of the most significant questions about our universe.

12. What If by Randall Monroe: "What If" answers the questions you didn't even know you needed answers for. Monroe dives into absurd hypothetical scenarios with scientific rigor, offering entertaining and well-researched explanations. This book challenges your thinking and expands your curiosity, showcasing how a different perspective can lead to innovative ideas.

By exploring these top books, you'll embark on a journey of intellectual growth and discover new ways to expand your intelligence. So grab a book, immerse yourself in its pages, and let your mind soar.