Library Cocktail Party

Guy Spier shares his philosophy on reading and learning, emphasizing an organic, interest-driven approach rather than forced completion of books.

Core Reading Philosophy

• Treat your library like a cocktail party - mix, mingle, and move between conversations/books
• Don't force yourself to finish books that aren't resonating
• Life is too short to waste time on reading that isn't giving you "win after win"
• Reading time is precious - use it on what works for you personally

How to Approach Reading

• Pick up 20 books that might lead you in a good direction
• Quickly skim through pages to assess if it's engaging you
• If a book isn't working:
  • Put it down
  • Maybe return to it another day when timing is better
  • Don't feel obligated to continue

Key Principles

• Everyone's brain is different - what works for others may not work for you
• Start with any reading list but iterate quickly based on what resonates
• Remove the sense of obligation around reading specific texts
• Use valuable brain energy on material that genuinely works for you

Finding What Works

• Don't force yourself to read things just because they're recommended
• If famous works (like Buffett letters) aren't speaking to you, put them down
• Trust your own interest and engagement level
• Keep moving until you find material that truly engages you

The framework emphasizes personal connection to material over prescribed reading lists, treating books as opportunities for engagement rather than obligations to complete.