Reading
Books
Thinking in SystemsDonella Meadows
The best primer on systems thinking. Changed how I approach complex problems at work.
The Design of Everyday ThingsDon Norman
Foundational for anyone building products. Makes you see affordances everywhere.
Storytelling with DataCole Nussbaumer Knaflic
Practical guide to making data presentations that actually communicate. I reference this constantly.
The Mythical Man-MonthFrederick Brooks
Timeless essays on software engineering and why adding people to a late project makes it later.
Articles
How to Do Great WorkPaul Graham
A long essay on the common patterns behind exceptional work across fields. Worth revisiting yearly.