"The Art of Reading Well and Becoming a Product Manager"

"The Art of Reading Well and Becoming a Product Manager"

Reading is a fundamental activity that shapes our thoughts, perspectives, and ultimately, our lives. Whether it's an unread library or a well-read one, the books we choose to engage with hold immense value. Just as Paul Graham admits to not having read every book on his shelf, but having gleaned wisdom from some of each, we too can find meaning in both the books we've read and those we have yet to explore.

If you admire someone's thinking, a valuable question to ask them is what books have influenced them. Our experiences shape us, and books are no exception. Just as we may not remember every meal we've ever eaten, the collective impact of our culinary experiences has shaped our culinary preferences and tastes. Similarly, the books we've read, whether we remember them in detail or not, have played a significant role in shaping who we are today.

Henry Kissinger once said, "Books record the deeds of those who once dared greatly, as well as those who dared too much, as a warning." Within the pages of books, we find stories of triumph, failure, and cautionary tales. These narratives provide us with insight into the human experience, allowing us to learn from the successes and mistakes of those who have come before us.

While it may be tempting to commit to reading every book from cover to cover, the reality is that life is too short to read boring books. As the team at Farnam Street wisely advises, start a lot of books, but only finish a few of them. Just as we wouldn't force ourselves to eat a tasteless meal, there's no need to subject ourselves to uninteresting literature. Instead, choose books that captivate your attention and resonate with your interests.

Morgan Housel offers a practical approach to reading well: memorize stories, highlight essential facts, and skip the fluff. By focusing on the narrative elements that stick with us, extracting key information, and disregarding unnecessary details, we can maximize the value we derive from our reading experiences.

Incorporating a variety of genres into our reading habits can also enhance our overall literary experience. Reading non-fiction in the morning stimulates our minds and provides a foundation of knowledge for the day ahead. On the other hand, diving into fiction before bed allows us to unwind, escape into imaginary worlds, and exercise our creativity.

Cormac McCarthy reminds us that new books are made of old books. Every novel we read is built upon the foundations of previous works. The evolution of literature relies on the ideas, themes, and storytelling techniques that have been passed down through generations. Recognizing this interconnectedness adds depth and richness to our reading experiences.

Lastly, the books we choose not to read can speak volumes about our character and values. Our reading choices reflect our interests, preferences, and the perspectives we choose to explore. It's essential to be intentional in our selection process, ensuring that the books we engage with align with our personal and intellectual growth.

To conclude, here are three actionable pieces of advice to help you read well and embrace the role of a product manager:

1. Prioritize quality over quantity: Instead of aiming to read as many books as possible, focus on choosing books that genuinely captivate your interest and provide value for your personal and professional development.

2. Diversify your reading habits: Explore a range of genres, including non-fiction and fiction, to broaden your perspectives, stimulate creativity, and enhance your overall reading experience.

3. Be intentional in your selection process: Consider the books you choose not to read as carefully as the ones you do read. Align your reading choices with your values, interests, and aspirations to ensure a meaningful and impactful reading journey.

By embracing these principles, you can cultivate a love for reading, expand your knowledge, and develop the critical thinking skills necessary to thrive as a product manager. So, grab a book, open your mind, and embark on a journey of intellectual exploration and personal growth.