I only read great literature, classics, history books my whole life. This year (Aged 48) I decided to pepper in a "fluff" book or two. I forced myself to read something I normally wouldn't. I read "The Situation" (Jersey Shore) and Mathew Perry (Friends) "auto" biographies. I actually had some profound insights about depression and substance abuse from those two. Of course, I don't recommend you read either, but if you never read "airport fiction" or "pop biographies" it might prove interesting.

When I had an IC role, I would recommend tech projects and execute them w/ my team (we can solve "problem X" with "tech stack Y"). I also had a lot of agency in creating solutions for tech proposals. When I had the director role, I made sure nobody wasted time. I would qualify deals to chase, recommend strategies and core competencies to pursue (AI and Cloud yes, Blockchain and Quantum no). Now, in my VP role I try to get people good at making these strategy decisions (we should follow shipley for capture, etc.). Also, a LOT more relationship capital building and external COMMs at the VP level.

"Charisma is the ability to influence without logic." - Quentin Crisp

I laughed at the title! My friends and I say the original quote way to much, even 25 years later. (From "Fast and Furious - Vin Diesel says "I live my life a quarter mile at a time.")