Khalid: The 5 Books That shaped my career and personal growth

At KERN IT, we firmly believe that learning is a lifelong journey. Personally, reading is more than just a passion; it’s an essential tool for nurturing my intellect, sparking my imagination, and expanding my professional vision. Today, I’d like to share five books that have deeply influenced how I think and act.

My daily reading mainly revolves around three key genres:

• Technical and scientific publications to sharpen my expertise,
• Science fiction novels, which fuel my creativity,
• Business and self-improvement books to keep me in sync with the challenges of a constantly shifting professional landscape.

During interviews, I like to ask a simple yet revealing question: What book has made an impact on you lately? Because books are not just objects; they immerse us, transform us, and strengthen us. In this spirit of sharing, here are the five must-read books that have fundamentally shaped my path.

1. "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" - Stephen Covey

Stephen Covey’s masterpiece serves as a roadmap for anyone seeking to improve their daily effectiveness. The seven habits he describes allow one to excel in both personal and professional spheres. It is a fundamental read for those who wish to take charge of their destiny with discipline and vision.

2. "Rework" - Jason Fried et David Heinemeier Hansson

In this book, Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson take an unconventional approach to the business world. They debunk traditional myths and share simple, pragmatic strategies for doing business differently. Rework is a refreshing guide for anyone looking to create, innovate, and move forward without getting lost in conventional norms.

3. "The Lean Startup" - Eric Ries

The startup world is often perceived as complex and uncertain. Eric Ries offers a clear methodology for transforming ideas into concrete success, even with limited resources. he focus is on rapid learning, experimentation, and adaptability; essential qualities in a technological environment that is constantly evolving.

4. "Zero to One" - Peter Thiel et Blake Masters

According to Peter Thiel, the key to success doesn't lie in repetition or imitation, but in pure innovation. This book invites us to create something unique, to think differently, and to step off the beaten path. An essential read for any entrepreneur seeking to make a real impact.

5. "The Pragamatic Programmer" - Andrew Hunt et David Thomas

In a fast-paced technological world, Andrew Hunt and David Thomas provide a practical guide for developers. More than just a book about code, it is a true survival manual that emphasizes flexibility, critical thinking, and adaptability in the face of technical challenges. A must-read for every development professional.

How about you? What are the books that shaped your path?

Every book is an opportunity to grow, to challenge ourselves, and to discover new perspectives. Whether in technology, entrepreneurship, or fiction, books play a key role in our personal and professional fulfillment.