Bill Gates updated his profile photo today, but that usually shouldn’t be a big deal, what was striking about the photo was the way he was holding a tray with five books, much like a bartender serving drinks, with the caption, “I’m serving up some recommendations for books and TV series to enjoy this summer.” Gates is a prominent figure not just in technology and philanthropy but also as an avid reader and it seems to me like this is one common character of successful people worth copying – Successful People Read. This gesture is similar to what Oprah Winfrey does with her Book Club. These simple acts inspire people to discover new reads.
Bill Gates’ recommendations aren’t just about reading, he also recommends TV series to watch; The books and TV series he recommends all have an unintentional theme connecting them— all touching on the idea of service to others.
Whether you’re a book lover or not, there are many ways to acquire knowledge and stay curious. I recommend the following:
1. Download Audiobooks or Podcasts: Its perfect Gen-Zs and busy executives who find it hard to sit down with a book. Audiobooks allow you to enjoy stories and information on the go. They’re also great for workouts, or just relaxing at home.
2. Watch Educational Videos: Platforms like YouTube and educational websites offer a wide range of videos on almost any topic you can imagine. For me, TED Talks forms a strong foundation for most of the things I know. There are also instructional videos online, the beauty is on YouTube, which I call the ‘the poor man’s university’ there’s something for every learner.
3. Attend Workshops/Webinars: They are also great for those who prefer interactive learning environments. Workshops and webinars provide hands-on experiences and direct access to experts, making it easy to acquire new knowledge and skills.
Now, here’s a closer look at what Gates is recommending and why these picks might just be the perfect addition to your reading list:
1. The Women, by Kristin Hannah: This novel tells the story of a U.S. Army nurse in the Vietnam War. Kristin Hannah highlights the sacrifices and struggles of these brave women, offering a historical perspective and showcasing their resilience.
2. Infectious Generosity, by Chris Anderson: Chris Anderson explores how the internet can amplify generosity. This book guides individuals, businesses, and governments on fostering a culture of giving, beyond just monetary donations.
3. Slow Horses: For spy thriller fans, “S low Horses” is a must-watch. This British TV series features undercover agents in Slough House—a place for those who have made serious mistakes but haven’t been fired. It promises intricate plots and complex characters.
4. Brave New Words, by Sal Khan: Sal Khan provides a visionary look at how AI can revolutionize education. He argues that AI will enhance both student outcomes and teacher experiences, making quality education accessible to all.
5. How to Know a Person, by David Brooks: David Brooks’ latest book delves into the art of understanding others through effective communication. He offers practical tips for “loud listening,” helping people feel heard and valued, fostering deeper connections.
What’s my Personal Pick?
Number 5 – ‘How to Know a Person’. I’m particularly drawn to the title and brief summary of the book. As someone deeply interested in AI/digital literacy and professional branding, I find the author’s insights on conversational and social skills invaluable. His concept of “loud listening” resonates with my belief in the importance of making others feel heard and valued, both in personal and professional interactions. I’d love to get a copy of the book to read and also share with my community @ the Upskill and Connect Village.
Quest for knowledge is indeed a lifelong journey. Whether through books, TV series, audiobooks, videos or other mediums like webinars, there’s always something new to learn and discover. By embracing different ways of learning, we can continuously refresh our minds, stay curious, and nurture a more informed perspective on the world.
Here’s a quote by John Wooden I usually use at the end of my training sessions: –
“It’s what you learn after you know it all that counts.”
Bar Chart of what new knowledge can do to you sometimes
In my case, after some learning experiences, I am humbled, updated and feel like I know nothing… What about you? What does reading/learning do to you?