Books that helped me learn: behaviour, health and tech start-ups
10 books I read/ reread this year
As 2020 comes to an end I’ve become more obsessed with wanting to build, technology and start-ups. I have been reading a lot more. This year I decided to revisit some of the books I had read and dive into some new books that focused on innovation, start-ups, technology, behaviour and health. I found these books to be useful for those in the tech, start-up and health space.
Competing Against Luck- Clayton Christensen -
Centred around the ‘Jobs to be done theory’ and how innovation occurs.
Key takeaway- People ‘hire’ a product and service for a particular ‘job’ (problem) in their lives which isn’t always obvious. For example, one may buy milkshake on their commute not because they are hungry but because they are bored when stuck in traffic. Therefore it is important to focus on the ‘why’ for every product/ service as you may be competing with that which is less obvious. For example Netflix doesn't only compete with cable TV but with Tiktok (for our attention/ entertainment).
The Content Trap- Bharat Anand-
Centred around embracing Digital change in a fast evolving world.
Key Takeaway- We are all in the content business. The connections start-ups make is becoming more important that the content created at times. Success is enabled not only by content but by recognising how content enables connectivity for people. Our craving for experiences is what connects products. Succeeding now requires the courage to be different.
What they don’t teach you at Harvard Business School- Mark McCormack
Centred around people, negotiation and running a business
Key Takeaway- How to read people- 1. Listen Aggressively 2. Observe Aggressively, 3. Talk Less 4. Take a second look at first impressions 5. Take time to use what you’ve learned 6. Be discreet 7. Be detached
Black Box Thinking- Matthew Syed
Centred around the means of finding an edge in a fast changing world and learning from mistakes.
Key Takeaway- Embrace failure and learn from it. Often those who are the most successful are the most vulnerable as they haven’t learnt to deal with setbacks and therefore take on more challenging tasks. Resilience is more important than self esteem.
No Filter- The Inside Story of Instagram- Sarah Frier
Centred around Facebook’s billion dollar acquisition of Instagram
Key Takeaway- The inner workings of Silicon Valley tech culture and how and why decisions are made along the path of a fast growth start up. The power of influence and influencing behaviour can be shaped by the algorithms used as well as the early users of a platform that are granted visibility.
Underdogs, Misfits and the art of battling giants- Malcolm Gladwell
Centred around how disadvantages and be turned into advantages.
Key Takeaway- Look for the unintended consequences for a strength and turn your perceived weaknesses into strengths. For example childhood tragedy can activate compensatory mechanisms that can set you up for future success. Th inability to speak can mean better hearing and enhanced memory.
The Lean Start Up- Eric Reis
Centred around building a start-up by rapidly testing, adapting and adjusting.
Key Takeaway- Building a start-up- 1. Idea 2.Build 3. Product 4.Measure 5.Data 6.Learn 7. Repeat
Minimally Viable Product - ‘Lean Methodology’ priorities speed and functionality to provide what the user wants whilst minimising cost, waste and surplus.
The telomere effect- Elizabeth Blackburn
Centred around how to live younger, healthier and stronger
Key Takeaway- How to slow down ageing and maximise health span.
1. Reframe thoughts and how you respond to situations 2. Moderate aerobic exercise but don’t overtrain 3. Whole food, unprocessed diet rich in fibre and fruits/veg 4.Social cohesion and trust in relationships 5. Sleep well
The Circadian Code - Dr Satchin Panda
Centred around Circadian rhythms and the body clock
Key Takeaway- Optimal brain function is between 10 am and 3 pm the period when you are most alert. Sleep deprivation can affect our mood and decision making and we have more negative reward assessment. Light can help regulate our circadian rhythm/ body clock. The best time to strength train is 3 pm to dinner time as muscle tone is highest at this point. Practice Time restricted feeding- consuming food in an 8-12 hour window everyday reduces risk of disease and may aid weight loss.
The Skincare bible - Dr Anjali Mahto
Centred around skincare and anti-ageing
Key Takeaway- Read labels on products and look for key ingredients. Lifestyle impacts skin ageing and also the skin microbiome (which can contribute to skin conditions). Retinoids combined with antioxidants (vit C serum) and Sunscreen ( mid 20’s onwards) is key for preventing and reducing the signs of ageing.
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