These are my key take-ways from the book, with links to other books I have read.
Time is like a currency, and everyday you get 24 hours to spend.
You have all the time you will ever need. However, every day you feel that something is undone, this because you are stretched. Do not stretch yourself – accomplish what is achievable.
Don’t wait for a signal or plan, simply jump straight into whatever it is – reminds me of launching the minimum viable product in The Lean Startup, by Eric Ries – https://theleanstartup.com/
Your time before and after work are not the prologue and epilogue. This time is invaluable, don’t waste it. Spend 1.5 hours each evening cultivating your mind – this block of time is sacred. Moreover, leave one day per week completely and utterly free – Sunday
Stop reading the news – it is produced in rapidity and is expected to be consumed in a similar fashion.
Noting a bunch of similarities to Deep Work(https://calnewport.com/writing/#books). When sitting idle, try to focus your mind on a subject or meditation. AB recommends stoic passages (Marcus Aurelius Meditations) or quotes and suggests the following reflecting on a single piece in the morning, throughout the day, and then in the evening. For this I choose to reflect on what Marcus said of his mother; don’t support either side, put up with discomfort, don’t make demands, and don’t tolerate slanderers!
Look for and consider cause and effect in the environment around you. From nature to industry, and from man to machine.
On literature he advises to read great novels, but in particular poetry, because: it uses the highest form of literacy; teaches the highest form of wisdom; and gives the highest form of pleasure. Further, he says to read on subject or area and specialize in that. Finally he says that don’t keep on reading and reading without serious reflection (45 mins) . It is better to have read one book well and thought about it, than ripping your way through a bunch of books and letting everyone about that! Is this post a paradox?
Don’t be boastful is your thinking to others, and don’t tie yourself too closely to your program of thinking and study. Finally, don’t keep rushing onto the next thing, particularly reading. It’s not a competition. Breath and relax.
The author ends with a warning about setting up new habits. In that, don’t tax yourself and set unrealistic goals. Instead, go as slow and comfortable as you can, which will build up your self confidence. Atomic Habits