103: How to Be Everything by Emilie Wapnick

In 'Rest,' Alex Soojung-Kim Pang challenges the myth that harder work leads to better outcomes. He combines scientific research with historical examples of writers, painters, and thinkers to demonstrate the importance of 'deliberate rest' in enhancing productivity and creativity. The book emphasizes the need to treat rest as an active and essential part of a balanced life, highlighting practices such as daily naps, long walks, and deep play to achieve fulfillment and success.

In 'Shorter', Alex Soojung-Kim Pang explores the concept of reducing work hours without sacrificing productivity. He presents case studies of companies that have successfully implemented shorter workweeks, such as four-day weeks or six-hour days, and provides a step-by-step guide using design thinking to help businesses adopt these models. The book argues that shorter workweeks can improve work-life balance, boost recruitment and retention, and make companies more sustainable.

In 'Make Time', Jake Knapp and John Zeratsky offer a framework to help individuals manage their time more effectively. The book introduces the concept of the 'Busy Bandwagon' and 'Infinity Pools' (endless digital content) that consume our time. It proposes a four-step daily process: Highlight (identify the most important task), Laser (focus on that task), Energize (maintain energy levels), and Reflect (evaluate and improve the process). The authors provide over 80 actionable tips to help readers implement these steps and make meaningful time for what truly matters.

In 'The Crossroads of Should and Must,' Elle Luna explores the concept of two paths in life: 'Should' and 'Must. ' 'Should' represents the conventional expectations placed on us by others, while 'Must' is the authentic self, driven by personal passions and desires. The book is divided into four parts, each addressing how to recognize and overcome 'Shoulds,' identify one's 'Must,' and overcome common obstacles such as money, time, space, and vulnerability. Luna provides practical exercises and insights to help readers make fulfilling choices and live a more authentic life.

This book, which began as a speech given by Austin Kleon to college students, expands into a manifesto for creativity. It outlines ten transformative principles such as 'Steal like an artist' (honoring, studying, and transforming ideas), 'Don’t wait until you know who you are to start making things,' and 'Use your hands' (emphasizing physical work). Kleon argues that creativity is not original but builds on what came before, and he provides practical tips and inspiring concepts for artists, writers, musicians, and anyone generating creative work.

In 'Outliers: The Story of Success', Malcolm Gladwell examines the often-overlooked factors that contribute to high levels of success. He argues that success is not solely the result of individual talent or hard work, but rather is influenced by a complex web of advantages and inheritances, including cultural background, family, generation, and luck. The book delves into various examples, such as the success of Bill Gates, the Beatles, and Canadian ice hockey players, to illustrate how these factors play a crucial role. Gladwell also discusses the '10,000-hour rule' and the impact of cultural legacies on behavior and success. The book is divided into two parts: 'Opportunity' and 'Legacy', each exploring different aspects of how success is achieved and maintained.