My top 5 books from 2022
Howdy, leaders and readers!
As 2022 comes to a close, here are five titles you might consider adding to your reading queue for the coming year (in no particular order). There were plenty more I would've loved to share, but here is a diverse selection which will make you think. All links are non-affiliate.
Principles for Dealing with the Changing World Order by Ray Dalio: This one is long, but well worth your time. Who better than a hedge fund manager to explain how the geopolitical and economic forces throughout history manifest our current circumstances and challenges? You should pay particular attention to his take on which countries carry the most financial leverage and how they are using it to further their interests.
Reclaiming Conversation: The Power of Talk in a Digital Age by Sherry Turkle: Reading how technology is affecting communication skills for both kids and adults is sobering, to say the least. The toxic mix of survival instincts, fear of failure, and image control is leading people to settle for a subpar relationship experience. Screens serve as an effective supplement to bridge long distances and maintain safety (a la pandemics). But to see people use it as a substitute for real connections is a concerning trend. Will you consider Sherry's recommendations on how to reverse it?
Creativity: Flow and the Psychology of Discovery and Invention by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi: If you are already familiar with the concept of flow, think of this book as taking "flow" to the next level. Csikszentmihalyi does a thorough job unpacking the factors which unlock the creative muscle in us and also debunking the most frequent myths associated with high levels of creativity. Creativity is not an exclusive gift of the rich. Rather, creativity is a skill best harnessed in catalytical environments. Definitely comb the whole book for all his recommendations.
Pachinko by Min Jin Lee: This story weaves so much historical tension into a plot you can't help but follow. Regardless of how familiar you are with Asian culture, the blending of families with different backgrounds is something anyone can appreciate in a global world. The level of animosity between those two cultures also raises the stakes once both societies recognize how the child came from a Korean mother and Yakuza father.
Dopesick: Dealers, Doctors, and the Drug Company that Addicted America by Beth Macy: Perhaps my pharmacy background made me partial to this one. But even if pain management is neither an interest nor a familiarity for you, Beth's book will inspire you to learn more about it. While the trend of corporate greed is not a new one, the willingness of a company like Purdue Pharma to exploit people the way they did is alarming. I've previously recommended her book Factory Man, and Dopesick is more of the same high quality journalism, a worthwhile experience of a book.
What are YOUR favorite book recommendations from this past year? Please feel free to share your picks by commenting below or contacting me directly. I'd love to hear from you!
