Top reads of the week

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Pic: elsforautism.com

It’s been a long time since I read a really in-depth and informative piece on Ernie Els.

Gary Player apart, I’m not sure another South African sportsman has enjoyed such a prolonged stay at the forefront of the public consciousness.

In the New York Times this week, he opens up on his son Ben’s autism, a condition that caused Els much angst and forced him to reassess his own life. It’s a fine piece that lifts the lid on what must be a very private affair. It is nuanced and gentle and, for the first time I believe, gives context to the difficulties faced by the Els’. Do read it.

There’s an inspiring piece in Time magazine this week on CEO’s and their daily habits. What struck me was the often simple things that make a big difference. Regular people can apply these lessons too.

Having taken up running with something approaching seriousness around three years ago, I’m interested in technology around it. I use the Nike app on my runs – it’s free – and find it to be a handy and easy-to-use app that meets all my needs. But anyone with even a remote interest in technology will know that it’s a crowded space for running. This piece gives a solid lowdown on what’s out there, what works and what doesn’t.

I stumbled across the piece in Vanity Fair the other day and although it’s a bit dated – it was published in January – it’s no less fascinating. It’s a big takeout on Twitter founder Jack Dorsey and his unusual business style. It’s a top read for anyone who uses Twitter, particularly these days when the company increasingly struggles for growth and relevance.

This week’s fun read comes via Scary Mommy and will appeal to those, like me, who have been married for a while. “Four perks of old married sex” is a screamingly funny piece that gives reassurance to those who might be wondering where the spark went. It’s very good.