Deep Reading Rhythm

Mike Maples shares his approach to deep reading and information consumption, focusing on both breadth and depth in learning.

Core Reading Strategy

• Reads 1-2 books per week for general knowledge
• Maintains a subset of books he returns to repeatedly
• Takes detailed notes on core books
• Aims to understand deeply enough to explain concepts clearly to others

Reading Philosophy

• Avoid imitating others, but learn from everyone
• Don't compare yourself to others
• Create a "T-shaped" knowledge structure:
  • Wide breadth across many topics
  • Deep expertise in select areas
• Focus on being "a mile deep somewhere"

Current Focus Areas

• Studying stoicism
  • Notes common misunderstanding of stoics as emotionless
  • Actually finds stoic philosophy optimistic and inspiring
• Alfred Adler's work
  • Particularly interested in ideas about individual agency
  • Believes Adler's concepts are relevant for 21st century
• The Courage to Be Disliked
  • Japanese book based on Adlerian psychology
  • Regular re-reading and note-taking

Implementation Method

• Creates lists of key lessons from core books
• Reviews daily to check if practicing learned concepts
• Balances between:
  • Deep study of fundamental texts
  • Exploration of new recommended books
• Focuses on internalizing and applying key concepts