‘Atomic Habits’ by James Clear

How can you build good habits and break bad ones? That’s the question James Clear’s Atomic Habits attempts to answer using a simple and effective framework called the Four Laws of Behaviour Change.

For GoGet’s Francesca Chia, the book helped her change her mindset regarding how she approached work and envisioning her future. “I found that it helped break everything down into small, manageable steps that made me more efficient and productive. At the same time, I felt fulfilled with my habits.”

The book explains how habits are the compound interest of self-improvement and how small changes can lead to remarkable results over time. It teaches you how to focus on your system rather than your goals, shape your identity through your habits and design your environment to support your desired behaviours.

‘The Psychology of Money’ by Morgan Housel

For a serial entrepreneur, lawyer, furniture retailer and cricket farmer Kevin Wu, the book by the award-winning author and partner at The Collaborative Fund, The Psychology of Money is a must-read for anyone who wants to improve their financial literacy and behaviour.

A collection of 19 short stories, the book explores the strange ways people think about money and how emotions affect decisions and outcomes. The book argues that financial success is not a hard science that requires a formal education or a high income, but a soft skill that anyone can learn by understanding the psychology of money.

“This book inspired me because it makes personal finance fun and practical. Personal finance has been an interest of mine over the last few years because it is so important and is not taught in schools. I think Housel’s book brings in great practical examples of personal finance, common pitfalls and some good frameworks on how to think about personal finance,” says Wu.

The book delves into the topic of money and human behaviour through the use of historical anecdotes, personal stories and psychological insights. It is important to note that the book does not provide prescriptive advice on how to handle one’s finances, but rather, it offers a descriptive approach to help readers develop a better understanding of their relationship with money. By doing so, readers can make smarter financial decisions that align with their personal goals and values.

“It is a refreshing and insightful take on money and human behaviour. I learned a lot from Housel’s stories and wisdom. It resonates because it’s relevant and applicable to our modern world,” he adds.

Read more: From LA to Silicon Valley: Meet DA Wallach, the musician-turned-investor who made early bets on Spotify and SpaceX

‘The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse’ by Charlie Mackesy

While this book isn’t focused on productivity, it is an interesting read that touches on universal questions and emotions everyone can relate to. Charlie Mackesy’s The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse is an inspiring and uplifting story that offers gentle guidance and encouragement to face the uncertainties and difficulties of the world with compassion and optimism. 

Combining beautiful illustrations and simple yet profound words to tell the story of four unlikely friends who embark on a journey of discovery and wisdom. Makchic managing editor Kimberly Lee says, “I find that this book carries great poignancy and profundity that belies its simple nature—and its message of hope and courage, especially in today’s confusing and deeply conflicted world, remains timeless and deeply inspiring.” 

Unlike most stories, the book is not a linear narrative but a collection of conversations and moments that capture the essence of life and its challenges.

Read more: How to find the right VC for your startup

‘Never Split the Difference’ by Chris Voss

Not every book can offer you insights and techniques from an FBI hostage negotiator. Chris Voss’s Never Split the Difference, another recommendation by Chia, is one such suggestion. The book combines real-life stories, scientific research, and practical advice to help you comprehend and influence human behaviour.

“It’s fascinating to learn about the psychology of humans. I discovered simple negotiation tips for which I even trained in our office,” says the co-founder and CEO of GoGet. “Everyone has to negotiate in life, from negotiating with your five-year-old child for bedtime to getting a meeting pushed earlier if needed urgently. It’s a great soft skill to have.” 

Besides challenging conventional negotiation wisdom, the book proposes a new approach based on emotional intelligence, active listening and tactical empathy.

‘How to Decide’ by Annie Duke

Making decisions is something that all of us struggle with. As an entrepreneur, Chia relates how Annie Duke’s How to Decide helped her make sense of difficult decisions. Duke offers a unique perspective on the subject as a former professional poker player.

“You may face tough dilemmas that force you to choose between different organisational paths. These decisions can significantly impact your organisation’s trajectory and learning how to make them effective is essential,” she says.

The book discusses overcoming common biases and errors that affect your decision quality, such as results, hindsight and motivated reasoning. 

“I appreciate how the author draws on her experiences as a poker player. She examines how poker players must consider numerous permutations and make decisions based on the likelihood of those permutations. I find this approach fascinating and believe it can be helpful in decision-making in other areas,” says Chia. 

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