The Simple Habit That Shapes Extraordinary Careers
While career trajectories often seem determined by major decisions like job changes, promotions, or entrepreneurial ventures, the foundational habits that truly shape professional success are remarkably simple and accessible. Among business leaders worldwide, one consistent practice continues to stand out: dedicated reading.
A Consistent Pattern Among Top Executives
For Jon McNeill, who has worked closely with some of America's most prominent executives, this pattern has been unmistakably consistent. As former president of Tesla and later chief operating officer of Lyft, McNeill observed firsthand how senior leaders allocate their time and which habits they maintain over decades.
"Reading is probably the single most important thing you can do," McNeill emphasized in an interview with Fortune. He noted that the majority of highly successful individuals he encountered maintained regular reading routines, often integrating this practice into their daily schedules as non-negotiable commitments.
This observation aligns with long-standing habits of legendary figures like Warren Buffett, who famously dedicates substantial portions of his day to reading, and Elon Musk, who consistently credits books as fundamental to his learning process. For McNeill, this wasn't coincidental but rather a shared characteristic among high achievers.
Building Thinking Capacity and Sustaining Curiosity
Reading serves multiple crucial functions in professional development. Beyond simply providing information, it builds familiarity with diverse concepts across various fields. Over time, this exposure enables individuals to connect seemingly unrelated ideas, recognize emerging patterns, and approach challenges with broader perspectives.
McNeill particularly highlighted how reading sustains intellectual curiosity. Rather than treating it as a chore, he described reading as an active mental engagement that keeps the mind alert and inquisitive. This cultivated curiosity has directly influenced his career trajectory, including board positions at General Motors, Lululemon, and CrossFit, along with his work at venture firm DVx.
A Common Trait Among Billionaires and a Declining Public Habit
The emphasis on reading extends beyond individual anecdotes. A comprehensive 2025 survey conducted by JPMorgan involving more than 100 billionaires identified reading as one of the most commonly shared habits among this elite group.
Meanwhile, reading appears to be declining significantly among the general population. Recent YouGov data reveals that approximately two in five Americans did not read a single book during the past year. Research from the University of Florida and University College London further indicates that daily reading for pleasure has decreased steadily over the past two decades.
This decline is particularly pronounced among younger demographics, with those aged 18 to 29 reporting substantially lower average reading levels compared to older generations.
The Professional Consequences of Reading Decline
This trend matters because reading correlates strongly with skills that extend far beyond academic performance. Regular readers typically develop enhanced analytical thinking, improved problem-solving abilities, and greater cognitive flexibility—qualities increasingly valuable across virtually all roles and industries.
How Reading Shapes Professional Relationships
For McNeill, one of the most practical benefits of reading is its impact on professional interactions. He explained that consistent reading helps individuals formulate better questions, which in turn transforms how they engage with colleagues and superiors.
Recalling his initial interaction with Elon Musk, McNeill described how he didn't lead with his own credentials. Instead, he asked insightful questions about Tesla's specific challenges, which sparked a meaningful dialogue that eventually led to his executive role at the company.
A similar approach proved effective with General Motors CEO Mary Barra. By focusing his questions on the core problems the company aimed to solve, McNeill established genuine connections that later evolved into his board position.
A Steady Habit in an Unpredictable Job Market
For younger professionals entering a job market characterized by rapid technological disruption and evolving roles, McNeill's advice centers on foundational habits rather than temporary adjustments. "Don't freak out," he reassured. "You're absolutely going to be fine."
In a professional landscape constantly reshaped by new tools and shifting expectations, reading remains a remarkably stable practice. For countless leaders, it continues to form an essential component of how they learn continuously, think critically, and make informed decisions throughout their careers.
