10 Must-Read Books Recommended by Naval Ravikant for Personal Growth and Success

Aman Bhatia
4 min readJun 14, 2023

Naval Ravikant, a prominent entrepreneur, investor, and author, is widely respected for his profound wisdom and insights on various aspects of life and business. As the founder of AngelList, an influential platform that connects startups with investors, and an investor in renowned companies like Twitter, Uber, and Yammer, Naval has amassed a wealth of knowledge and experience. His book, “The Almanack of Naval Ravikant,” is a treasure trove of his thoughts and ideas on life, wealth, and happiness. In this blog post, we will delve into the 10 books that Naval Ravikant highly recommends reading for their enlightening and transformative qualities.

1. “Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind

by Yuval Noah Harari

In “Sapiens,” Harari takes readers on an enthralling journey through the history of human evolution and the subsequent development of civilization. Naval highly recommends this book because it offers a fresh perspective on the human experience, providing readers with a broader understanding of our existence and our place in the world.

2. “The Lessons of History

by Will and Ariel Durant

This concise and insightful book provides an overview of the major events and ideas that have shaped human history. Naval suggests reading “The Lessons of History” to gain a deeper understanding of our past and present. By highlighting recurring themes and patterns, this book offers valuable lessons that can inform our decision-making and shape our future.

3. “The Art of Possibility

by Rosamund Stone Zander and Benjamin Zander

Naval regards “The Art of Possibility” as a transformative book that empowers readers to adopt a positive and expansive mindset. The authors provide practical tools and strategies to unlock creativity, inspiration, and personal growth. This book is a powerful resource for anyone seeking to enhance their outlook on life and explore new possibilities.

4. “Meditations

by Marcus Aurelius

As a classic work of stoic philosophy, “Meditations” imparts practical advice on living a meaningful and virtuous life. Naval recommends this timeless book for its insights into the human condition, self-awareness, and emotional resilience. Through Aurelius’s reflections and meditations, readers can cultivate a deeper understanding of themselves and navigate life’s challenges with grace.

5. “The Psychology of Money

by Morgan Housel

Housel’s thought-provoking book delves into the psychological biases and behaviors that influence our relationship with money. Naval believes “The Psychology of Money” offers a fresh and insightful perspective on personal finance. By understanding the psychological aspects of financial decision-making, readers can make wiser choices and cultivate a healthier mindset toward wealth.

6. “Poor Charlie’s Almanack

by Charles T. Munger

Naval highly recommends this comprehensive collection of speeches and writings by Charlie Munger, the esteemed business partner of Warren Buffett. “Poor Charlie’s Almanack” provides invaluable insights into investing, business, and life from one of the most successful investors of our time. Readers can glean wisdom and practical advice from Munger’s experiences and principles.

7. “The Sovereign Individual

by James Dale Davidson and Lord William Rees-Mogg

The Sovereign Individual” is a provocative book that presents a compelling vision of the future. It predicts the rise of a new global elite and the decline of traditional nation-states in the face of the digital revolution. Naval suggests reading this book to gain a deeper understanding of the potential implications of technology on our society and personal lives.

8. “The Selfish Gene

by Richard Dawkins

Dawkins’s groundbreaking book revolutionized the field of evolutionary biology. Naval recommends “The Selfish Gene” for its clear and concise explanation of the genetic basis of human behavior. By grasping the fundamental principles of life and evolution, readers can develop a deeper appreciation for our existence and the underlying mechanisms that drive us.

9. “The Hard Thing About Hard Things

by Ben Horowitz

Entrepreneurs and leaders facing the challenges of building and managing businesses will find immense value in this candid and practical book. “The Hard Thing About Hard Things” offers insights on resilience, persistence, and problem-solving in the face of adversity. Naval suggests reading this book to gain valuable lessons that can guide entrepreneurs through the ups and downs of their journey.

10. “The Four Agreements

by Don Miguel Ruiz

As a spiritual book, “The Four Agreements” provides a simple yet powerful code of conduct for living an authentic and fulfilling life. Naval recommends this book for its practical guidance on cultivating self-awareness, embracing personal responsibility, and living with integrity. By following these agreements, readers can enhance their relationships, find inner peace, and align their actions with their values.

In conclusion, the 10 books recommended by Naval Ravikant offer profound insights into a wide range of topics, including history, philosophy, finance, and entrepreneurship. Each book has the potential to inspire, guide, and transform readers’ perspectives on life. Whether you seek inspiration, knowledge, or a fresh outlook, these books will provide you with a wealth of wisdom and practical advice. Embark on your journey of personal growth and fulfillment by picking up one of these recommended books today.

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Aman Bhatia

2X Top Writer on Medium. Books, Life Lessons, Money, Self Improvement. Follow for inspiration and growth. Mail: amanbhatiakkr@gmail.com