Over the years, I’ve experimented with countless books, tools, and systems while working as an engineer, writer, husband, and father. Most weren’t memorable. The resources below are the handful I continue coming back to because they’ve genuinely improved the way I work, think, create, and live.
A note about these recommendations: You’ll notice this page includes everything from books and Bibles to office equipment, fitness gear, and everyday products. That’s intentional. Responsible freedom isn’t built by one category of tools—it’s shaped by the small things that consistently help us think clearly, work well, care for our health, manage our resources, and invest in what matters most. Sometimes that’s a good night’s sleep. Other times it’s a comfortable shirt that makes long hours of focused work (or fun) a little easier. Every recommendation on this page has earned its place through extended regular use, not because it’s new or popular.
Disclosure: Some resources below contain affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products I’ve personally used, continue to use, or would confidently recommend to family and friends. My goal is to help you find tools that genuinely improve your work and life—not simply to sell products. Learn more.
Resources for Focus and Attention
These tools and books have helped me reduce distractions, improve concentration, and make better use of my time during work, writing, and everyday life.
Beats Studio Buds – I use these for focus, walks, and general productivity. The noise cancellation is solid, and they’ve been reliable for everyday use while I’m moving around. They make it easier to stay consistent with learning and thinking on the go. The Apple AirPods Pro is also great but I experienced connectivity and battery issues after 1+ years of use.
Logitech MX Master Mouse – I’ve used different versions of the Logitech MX Master for years, and I honestly can’t imagine going back to a standard mouse. Its comfort, programmable buttons, and ergonomic shape make long writing and engineering sessions dramatically more comfortable. I even wrote an article about it: The Best Ergonomic Mouse for Long Hours at a Computer (After 3 Years of Daily Use).
Eat That Frog – Time management book that helps me focus on getting the most important task completed first. Helps with time waste, mindset, and productivity.
Related Articles:
If you’re interested in improving focus and reducing distractions, these articles explore many of the same ideas:
- The Ultimate Guide to Attention Management
- How Context Switching Destroys Focus and Productivity
- Why Constant Stimulation Makes Life Feel Empty and Boring
- Best Computer Mouse to Prevent Hand and Wrist Fatigue
Resources for Intentional Living
Growth rarely happens overnight. These books and resources have shaped how I think about faith, discipline, leadership, finances, and building a meaningful life over the long term.
NIV Bible – The Bible has been the foundational influence in how I understand meaning, purpose, and the world around me. I’ve been reading scripture for decades and still regularly come across passages that resonate in new ways. The NIV translation is easy to read and light enough to carry around.
ESV Study Bible – This is my go-to Bible study tool whenever I want to better understand historical context, cross references, and difficult passages.
The 100 Absolutely Unbreakable Laws of Business and Success – A straightforward, practical business book that I’ve returned to multiple times. It’s concise, easy to revisit, and full of short principles that are simple to apply when thinking about business and personal success.
Extreme Ownership – Hard hitting practical business lessons that helped me understand how to own what I do and have a better impact on my team up and down the chain of command.
The Total Money Makeover – Few books have influenced how I think about personal finance more than this one. Its emphasis on living below your means, eliminating debt, and consistently investing reinforced financial habits that continue paying dividends years later. I’ve kept a monthly budget for over a decade, and this book continues to affirm many of the financial principles I’ve found to be true.
Related Articles:
If you’re curious how you can maintain growth and performance long-term, these articles will give you successful frameworks:
- Biblical Differences Between a Growth Mindset and a Fixed Mindset (With Bible Verses)
- The Psychology of Discipline: How to Stay Consistent When Motivation Fades
- Sustainable Performance: How to Stay Productive Without Burning Out
- What Too Many People Misunderstand About Passive Income
Resources for Relationships
I’ve been married for over a decade, have three young children, and continue learning every year how intentional communication and presence strengthen relationships. The resources below have influenced that journey.
The 5 Love Languages – Eye opening book to help understand how I and my wife give and receive love. Serves as a baseline for couples and cultivates effective conversations.
Love & Respect – One of the more thought-provoking marriage books I’ve read and worked through. Whether you agree with every conclusion or not, it generates healthy conversations about communication, respect, expectations, and serving one another well. My wife and I even flew to Denver, CO to see Dr. Emerson Eggerichs at a marriage conference because the book was so good.
Related Articles:
If you’re wondering how to improve your relationships with people and technology, these articles expand the topics:
Resources for Health and Energy
It’s difficult to do your best work when you constantly feel tired or uncomfortable. These products have become reliable parts of my daily routines for sleep, exercise, recovery, and maintaining energy.
Bluewave Bedding Hyper Slim Memory Foam Pillow – I struggled finding the right pillow but I’ve been very happy with this one for a long time. It’s slim enough to feel comfortable when sleeping on my back or front, and it’s got just enough thickness when I sleep on my side. Because I tend to wake up early for productivity, getting a good night sleep is critical and this pillow does the job.
netdraw Men’s Ultra Soft Bamboo T-Shirt – I am more productive when I’m comfortable. These bamboo shirts are so soft and breathable. Netdraw makes other articles of clothing too – also great.
CS Celersport Men’s Running Socks – I walk a lot and have found most socks wear out. These handle the friction and feel great. Well fitting, tight, and cushioned.
JYM Supplement Science Pre JYM – I use this on training or high-focus mornings when I want a noticeable energy lift without feeling overstimulated.
JYM Supplement Science Iso JYM – Clean and clear protein powder that’s easy to mix and consistently fits into my routine when I’m focused on training or getting enough protein.
LCYMD Dual Shock Memory Foam Bicycle Seat – Started bicycling a while back and this cushioned, waterproof seat really helps on the longer rides. It has a quick, standard attachment and the air flow gap feels great.
Related Articles:
If you’re looking for ways to improve your health, energy, and recovery, these articles explore several practical strategies and ideas:
- How to Use Caffeine for Productivity Without Burning Out
- Making Lists Brings Order and Success to Chaos
- Why You’re Always Tired (and How to Fix It Naturally)
- Most Adults Stop Trying New Things Too Early
As I continue reading, testing, and learning, I’ll update this page with additional resources that genuinely earn a permanent place in my life. I’d rather recommend a handful of exceptional tools than hundreds of average ones.