Intro
Hello! I’m Brian. Currently studying Software Systems (subset of CS) at Simon Fraser University.
This website will be my main place to dump ideas and share it into the world.
I really liked software because of how it can magically improves human lives and is almost as it is infinitely scalable while doing so.
I am interested in all things software. From designing beautiful interfaces, using different programming paradigms, to learning how distributed systems powers the internet as it is today.
Tools
Software
- I code with Visual Studio Code with Monokai theme
- I deploy websites with Vercel
- I use Notion as the planner for big things.
- TickTick is my assistant for managing daily tasks and doubles as a pomodoro timer.
- Learning Obsidian to capture my thoughts
- StayFocusd and Forest have helped me to be indistractable
- Brave Browser is a game-changer as an ads-blocker and light chromium browser
Hardware
- I use the latest MacBook Pro with Intel as my daily driver
- This Samsung 27-inch monitor is my first external monitor and I have been loving it
- I type and scroll with Logitech Keyboard and Mouse set. Definitely recommended!
- The set is placed on a Logitech Studio Desk Mat for extra protection and aesthetics ;)
- Sometimes, I am standing with my Ikea Trotten Standing Desk
- If not, I am sitting on my Kerdom Office Chair
- I try to make time to read books on my 4th Gen Kindle Paperwhite
Books
I enjoy reading books. I have mostly read non-fiction books, but trying to explore other genres as well. Here is a list of books that I would recommend to others:
-
Atomic Habits by James Clear
Such a good book that helps you to learn the significance of habit and somehow reading it is a bit addicting. -
How to Become a Straight-A Student by Cal Newport
The title can sound cringy I know, but this book changed my perspective about studying. It has helped me to study effectively to enjoy life outside more. -
7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens by Sean Covey
One of my first self-help books. It is based on the more popular book by the author’s father. For me, the main lesson here is to always think win-win. The game of life is not as competitive as it seems. -
Deep Work by Cal Newport
Similar philosophy with Straight-A student, but there is more significance to it. I truly believe that a satisfying work leads to a satisfying life, and this book will help you to achieve that. -
The Almanack of Naval Ravikant by Eric Jorgenson
A high-concentration of knowledge in quite a short book. You will learn from Naval Ravikant and his lessons on money creation, philosophy, and happiness. -
Everything is F*cked Up by Mark Manson
The book that helps me to become more honest and being more in control with my life. -
Sometimes You Win - Sometimes You Learn by John C. Maxwell
My first self-help book. In this book, it gives an insight on why losing is not necessarily bad and embracing it will make you to learn better. -
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson
Mark Manson is very funny. In this book, he delivers life philosophy 101 packed with many swear words. Life is short and this book makes you realize to just focus on what matters more.