Gents, if you’re not constantly learning you’ll eventually fall behind. Learning can come in many forms; online classes, reading, mentors, apprenticeships/internships, and watching videos. There is no “right way”, and you’ve got to choose what you enjoy most. I can’t imagine sitting in a classroom raising my hand and waiting to speak. However, I could definitely complete some online coursework over the course of a couple months.
I’m a big advocate of mixing it up and stimulating your mind in a variety of ways, so I generally learn in a combination of methods. One of those ways is reading books. Each year I set a goal to read a new book every couple months. I do a ton of reading in general, but to sit down and read a book requires a fairly large time commitment, so actually achieving that six book goal takes some planning and discipline. In 2021, I’ve upped that goal to twelve books, each with its own reason for being part of the selection.
Every morning I wake up to DMs from you guys, and one of the most common requests I get is book recommendations. If you’re wondering what I’ve bought for the upcoming year, here’s my list:
Recently completed:
“Never Split the Difference” by Chris Voss (IG: @thefbinegotiator / Twitter: @vossNegotiation )
An ex-hostage negotiator for the FBI, Voss gives you the ultimate foundation of negotiation, and the psychology behind it. On top of it being an excellent source of education, the book is filled with real life stories Voss encountered throughout his time in the FBI. You may be thinking that since you aren’t in a “business profession” you don’t need this book. Wrong. Negotiation happens in all facets of life. This book helps you understand how to get what you want. It’s a must read. Get it here
Completed today:
“Concrete Jungle”, by Clay Martin (IG: @offthe_res / Twitter: @offthe_res )
How to survive the uncertainty brought about by civil unrest in our streets. A Green Beret, Martin gives you great tips on preparation and supplies, weapons, fighting, creating a militia, gathering intel, and escape plans. The book is written in a way that makes you feel like you’re sitting across the table from Clay having a beer. It’s raw, timely, and extremely helpful. I plan on interviewing Clay Martin soon. He’s a total badass. Get it here
Next up:
“Agent of Influence” by Jason Hanson, NYT bestselling author. (IG: @spyescape / Twitter: @JasonHanson_CCA)
I grabbed this book because an ex-CIA officer teaches you how to use spy skills to persuade. We use persuasion in every aspect of life, whether we realize it or not. Best learn it from someone who’s life depended on it, right? Get it here
“Building the Elite” by Jonathan Pope and Craig Weller. (IG: @buildingtheelite / Twitter: @building_elite )
At the request of several followers, I purchased this book. Apparently it dives into the methods by which special operators in the military are trained. I’ve since followed their Instagram account which contains some really badass content. Looking forward to this one! Get it here
“The Way of the Superior Man” by David Deida (IG: @daviddeida.live / Twitter: @thedeidasource)
I bought a digital copy on Kindle, so it is not pictured in the library photo. From what I understand, Deida provides a deep dive into masculine essence, and what it means to be a man today . Get it here
“Survive Like a Spy” also by Jason Hanson (IG: @spyescape / Twitter: @JasonHanson_CCA)
This one from Jason Hanson features tips from actual CIA operatives explaining how they stay safe in our dangerous world. Get it here
“How to Become a Rainmaker” by Jeffrey J. Fox (Twitter: @JeffreyJFox)
Chris Voss mentioned this in his “Never Split the Difference” book, as it reveals some methods to improve your sales game. Pocket-sized and definitely worth a look. Get it here
“The Five Love Languages” by Gary Chapman (Facebook: Gary Chapman / Twitter @DrGaryChapman)
Another NY Times bestseller makes this list. It was recommended to me by a friend who was having marital issues. From what I understand, it delves into the five most common ways people need to be loved, and can help you fulfill your partners needs when they are not similar to yours. Get it here
“Meditations” by Marcus Aurelius
A good buddy of mine sent me this because he said it “changed his life”. I am familiar with the book and some of its contents, but I’ve never read it cover to cover. Really looking forward to this one. Get it here
“Winning Body Language” by Mark Bowden (IG: @Truthplane / Twitter: @truthplane)
I’ve read several body language books in my day, but a refresher is always welcome. Mark Bowden coaches Fortune 50 CEOs on presentation skills and communication. Doesn’t get much better than that. Get it here
“The Survival Doctors Complete Handbook” by James Hubbard, MD, MPH (Twitter: @SurvivalMD)
This guide gives you tips on how to handle medical emergencies when paramedics are nowhere in sight. It can’t hurt to have some of this knowledge. Get it here
“Contagious – Why Things Catch On” by Jonah Berger (IG: @J1berger / Twitter: @J1berger)
As many of you know, I’ve been in the midst of a Facebook/Instagram shadow ban since mid October. With my post reach down 90%, I want to figure out some new ways to trick the algorithm. For anyone trying to expand their social media influence, this book may help. Get it here
“Prepper’s Long Term Survival Guide” by Jim Cobb (Twitter: @survivalweekly)
We live in a world where shit can go sideways real quick. I don’t expect to retain 100% of this information, but who knows what tidbit might save my life someday. Get it here
“All New Square Foot Gardening” by Mel Bartholomew (Twitter: @Melbartholomew1)
I got my first experience with gardening in 2020, and it went fairly well. I will be reading this sometime in the early Spring to prep for the 2021 season. Get it here
If you have any recommendations you’d like to share, or questions on the aforementioned literature, send me a message.
– Your Big Bro