Ask HN: What skills are worth obsessive focus for an unshakable future?

[cookies2eat]

I’m at a point where I’m willing to commit completely to mastering one skill — even if it means sacrificing balance temporarily (long hours, minimal rest, limited social life).

I’m looking for skills where deep, obsessive focus can lead to an unshakable and sustainable future — financially, intellectually, or in terms of independence.

If you were starting over today with this mindset, what would you master? Bonus points for sharing books, lectures, or structured learning paths that helped you get there.

[smt88]

The most reasonable answer is "people skills," and you can only learn them through practice, intellectual humility, and open-mindedness. I haven't yet found a book that substitutes for real relationships.

[BOOSTERHIDROGEN]

What does it mean by substitutes? Could you illustrate using a book you read about relationships but then were disappointed by?

[smt88]

I mean that you can't learn how to manage, negotiate, change minds, make friends, etc. from reading books about those things. It takes practice. You need to meet and try to understand a lot of different people.

[cookies2eat]

Well said, Some are really lucky enough to get it naturally by birth.

[sxzygz]

If you’re a proper, native American, given the specificity and nature of the question you are asking, you should aim towards marrying into the Trump family. Be warned, however, that there is too much temptation to be drawn away from this path from vices such as reflection, compassion, and humility.

[cookies2eat]

OMG!! No way.

[gladiatr72]

plumbing

[smt88]

Electrical and carpentry seem to be pretty safe too

[cookies2eat]

Sure, Any books or video guide suggestions please.

[smt88]

There are tons of trade schools and certification programs you can join for these. It just depends on where you live. You take some classes and then often will get an apprenticeship.

[cookies2eat]

Sure I wanted to learn, Any books or video guide suggestions please.