The Almanack of Naval Ravikant: A Guide to Wealth and Happiness

Last week, I was aching, and the entire time I felt exposed. Well, most of you may think of a possible COVID-19 scare, but it’s almost spiritual and psychological. Reading this book by Naval Ravikant has made me unearth some fundamental life perspectives. And I said exposed because this book showed me very many limitations that I have embraced so far…

Before I share more about this book, let me introduce you to the genius of Naval Ravikant. Naval is an Indian American entrepreneur, investor, contemporary thinker and philosopher. He is the co-founder, chairman, and former CEO of AngelList. Naval has invested early-stage in over 200 companies. He is a Fellow of the Edmund Hillary Fellowship. He is also a podcaster who shares advice on pursuing health, wealth, judgment, and happiness. He is an incredible source of wisdom.

For me, the best thing about Naval is that he questions nearly everything and doesn’t take himself too seriously.

What is the book all about?

The book is a collection of his tweets, transcripts, and Naval has shared so far and dives deeply into his two most-explored topics: wealth, judgment, and happiness.

These topics are explained anecdotally in the form of his previous tweetstorms, Q&A format, transcripts, citations, non-narrative, etc.

Sharing some golden nuggets:

• “Clear thinker” is a better compliment than “smart”.
• A calm mind, a fit body, and a house full of love. These things cannot be bought. They must be earned.
• You’re never going to get rich renting out your time.
• Anger is its own punishment. An angry person trying to push your head below water is drowning at the same time.

What worked for me?

The book is non-preachy, anecdotal, and is structured well. Naval has shared a few books that have helped him in his journey. It came as a bonus. Most importantly, whatever was written, was something doable.

I plan to re-read it in the second half of the year. Reading this book has made me relook at my life decisions more consciously. It’s a playbook for life.

Go, grab your copy. It’s already too late. And follow Naval on Twitter, it’s a goldmine.

The views and opinions published here belong to the author and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the publisher.

Megha Chaturvedi

Megha is a passionate storyteller with over 12 years of experience supporting various organisations helping them shape their communication strategies. An ambivert, Megha wants to be constantly educated by new people, ideas, stories, hobbies, and places. In her part time, Megha does pro-bono consulting, mentors students and stalks brands on social media.