I Read 9 Books in 2024: Here Are 9 Lessons That Shaped My Year

Reading has always been a way for me to grow, learn, and escape. In 2024, I managed to dive into 9 incredible books (well, almost 9—I couldn’t quite finish The Kite Runner due to its heavy themes). From power dynamics to productivity hacks and entrepreneurial insights, each book left me with a unique lesson that I’ve carried into my life. Here’s a breakdown of the books I read and one key takeaway from each.

The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene

Lesson: Always make those above you feel comfortably superior. In a world where power dynamics are at play, this book taught me the importance of navigating relationships strategically. By allowing others to feel secure in their position, you can build trust and influence without threatening their ego. It’s a subtle but powerful way to maintain harmony while advancing your goals.
Zero to One by Peter Thiel

Lesson: Focus on creating something new, not just competing in existing markets. Thiel’s emphasis on innovation over imitation really stuck with me. Instead of fighting for a slice of an existing pie, it’s more impactful to create a new pie altogether. This mindset has pushed me to think more creatively about the projects I take on and the value I can bring to the table.
The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss

Lesson: Automate and outsource to reclaim your time. Ferriss’s approach to lifestyle design opened my eyes to how much time we waste on repetitive tasks. By automating processes or outsourcing non-essential work, I’ve been able to focus on what truly matters—whether it’s personal growth, relationships, or passion projects. Time is the ultimate currency.
The Almanack of Naval Ravikant by Eric Jorgenson

Lesson: Seek wealth, not money—wealth is having assets that earn while you sleep. Naval’s distinction between money (a short-term reward) and wealth (long-term freedom) was a game-changer. It’s not just about earning more but about building systems and assets that generate passive income. This lesson has made me more intentional about investing in skills and opportunities that compound over time.
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini (unfinished)

Lesson: Sometimes, stepping away from darkness is an act of self-care. Though I couldn’t finish this book due to its heavy and emotional themes, it taught me an important lesson: it’s okay to set boundaries with what you consume. Not every story is meant for every moment, and prioritizing mental well-being is a form of strength, not weakness.
The $100 Startup by Chris Guillebeau

Lesson: Start small, but start now—your passion can become your business. This book showed me that you don’t need a huge budget or a grand plan to launch something meaningful. By starting with what you love and solving a small problem, you can build momentum. It’s a reminder that action, even imperfect, is better than waiting for the “perfect” moment.
Grit by Angela Duckworth

Lesson: Passion and perseverance trump talent alone. Duckworth’s research on grit reinforced that success isn’t just about being naturally gifted—it’s about showing up consistently, even when it’s hard. This lesson has helped me push through challenges in my work and personal life, reminding me that effort compounds over time.
Deep Work by Cal Newport

Lesson: Eliminate distractions to unlock your highest potential. In a world full of notifications and noise, Deep Work taught me the value of focused, uninterrupted time. By carving out blocks for deep, meaningful work, I’ve been able to tackle complex tasks and produce higher-quality results. It’s a reminder that focus is a superpower in today’s distracted world.
Elon Musk by Walter Isaacson (audiobook)

Lesson: Embrace audacious goals—they stretch your limits. Listening to Musk’s story, I was struck by how his willingness to tackle seemingly impossible challenges (like colonizing Mars) has driven innovation. While I may not be building rockets, this lesson has inspired me to set bigger, bolder goals in my own life. It’s a reminder that ambition, paired with action, can move mountains.

Final Thoughts

These 9 books (and their lessons) have shaped how I approach work, relationships, and personal growth in 2024. From strategic thinking to deep focus and audacious dreaming, each takeaway has added a new layer to my perspective. If you’re looking for inspiration or a fresh mindset, I highly recommend picking up one (or all) of these books.

Image credit: Grok AI