I have an underdeveloped theory that there are two games that everyone should learn to play well.

Chess and poker.

Unfortunately, I can’t play either. Someone teach me, please.

Chess would teach me to strategize long-term, and poker would teach me to manage risk.

This all came out of a conversation I had with the wise PWK on opening day at SoWa Market. Maybe he isn’t so wise, though, because he lost a pretty big bet with high stakes.

The bet?

Which lot the Cookie Monstah truck was in.

The reward?

Ice cream and cookies.

He inspired me to start reading again- especially non-business/self-help books.

So I finally pulled the trigger and ordered a bunch of books I’ve been meaning to read. I have to keep my book load pretty limited though, since I’m taking only a backpack to India.

Here’s what’s coming…

Maximum City: Bombay Lost and Found by Suketu Mehta

The Noticer: Sometimes, all a person needs is a little perspective by Andy Andrews

The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History by Elizabeth Kolbert

Flash Boys: A Wall Street Revolt by Michael Lewis

I hope in some, at least indirect, way, these coming books and conversations will help me gain some insight into what a successful life means to me.

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3 things I’m thankful for:

1. PWK

2. The internet

3. CVS coupons