Ten Skills to Thrive in the AI Era

I was asked to be a guest lecturer at the capstone course for UW-Madison’s computer science program. During my hour-long talk yesterday, I gave 10 skills for coders to skyrocket their success.

I’ve given this talk before, but nowadays AI has changed the game in tech. The students had questions on which books I recommended on these skills. So I compiled a list of some of my favorites.

Here it is.

1. Resourcefulness

In this era, we don’t need to memorize answers. We just need to know where to find the answer. Being resourceful allows you to creatively navigate challenges and make the best use of available resources, leading to innovative solutions and personal growth.

The Obstacle Is the Way by Ryan Holiday. Draws on Stoic philosophy to teach how to turn challenges into opportunities, fostering a resourceful mindset.

2. Communication

Building meaningful relationships through effective communication fosters collaboration, trust, and influence, all crucial for personal and professional success.

How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie. Timeless principles for improving communication and building strong, lasting connections.

3. Time Management

Mastering time management ensures you can accomplish your goals efficiently without feeling overwhelmed or stressed.

Getting Things Done by David Allen. A comprehensive system for managing tasks and projects, helping you achieve stress-free productivity.

4. Growth Mindset

It seems obvious, but learning how to learn is vital to long-term success. Adopting a growth mindset helps you embrace challenges and learn from setbacks, driving continuous self-improvement.

Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck. How adopting a growth mindset can lead to greater achievement and fulfillment.

5. Goal Setting

Setting ambitious goals gives you a clear direction and the motivation to push beyond your limits to achieve success.

The 10X Rule by Grant Cardone. Setting ambitious goals and taking massive action to achieve extraordinary success.

6. Habit Formation

Forming positive habits is crucial for long-term success, as consistent actions build discipline and drive progress.

The Practicing Mind by Thomas M. Sterner. Developing focus and discipline through mindful practice, essential for building habits.

7. Negotiation

There is no quicker way to achieve our goals than with negotiation. These skills empower you to advocate for your interests and create win-win outcomes in both personal and professional settings.

Secrets of Power Negotiating by Roger Dawson. Techniques and strategies to become a more effective negotiator in various situations.

8. Networking

“Who do you know, that you think I should know?” has been the most powerful question I’ve ever asked a successful person. Building a strong network opens doors to new opportunities and accelerates your career and personal growth.

The Third Door by Alex Banayan. The author’s journey of networking with successful individuals, with insights into building meaningful connections.

9. Mindfulness

Life after college does not get easier. Practicing mindfulness keeps you grounded, reducing stress and helping you focus on what truly matters in the present.

Meditations by Marcus Aurelius. A classic of Stoic philosophy, encouraging mindfulness and self-reflection.

10. Adaptability

Technology is disrupting every aspect of our lives, and what we know today may not be relevant tomorrow. Being adaptable makes it easier to handle life’s inevitable changes and thrive in uncertain environments.

The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle. Living in the present moment, which aids in adapting to life’s changes.

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By continually working on these 10 skills, anyone will not just survive, but thrive in this upcoming era of unlimited intelligence permeating every corner of society.