- First-principles based reading. I fell into the easy trap of just reading business books that cover tactics. Read biographies of people who've accomplished a lot. Read how computers and electronics work at a more fundamental level, not just how to code. Basically, just apply some conscious thought to the kinds of books you read, and don't think of books as an instruction manual for right now. They're part of your general education.
- If you're a developer, become friends with the sales team at your work. Seeing things through a less technical lens will make you much more effective.
- Learn the mental skill of endurance. If you can walk 2 miles, try 20. Once you can cycle 20, you can do 100. The difference is mental more than physical.
I have a lot of trouble finding first principles resources. For instance, I'm trying to build up my expertise in business intelligence / analytics. I have found it basically impossible to find anything that isn't at the "for dummies" and / or temporarily dominant technology level. Do you have strategies for finding these kinds of books?
I once rowed a "half marathon" on an erg (~21km) on a whim (with a "slow and steady" strategy). It was amazing to me how much of finishing it was mental - especially the last third.
- If you're a developer, become friends with the sales team at your work. Seeing things through a less technical lens will make you much more effective.
- Learn the mental skill of endurance. If you can walk 2 miles, try 20. Once you can cycle 20, you can do 100. The difference is mental more than physical.