Sustainable leaders must be lifelong learners; researching any great leaders you will find that they made focused time dedicated to self-improvement. One of the best and easiest ways to expand your current knowledge is by reading. While our schedules remain busy, taking time to read offers different insights that can help you become a better person, professional, and leader. A good book can help you understand the world around you and inspire you to achieve your fullest potential
True North: Discover Your Authentic Leadership – Written by Bill George, this book focuses on using your own internal compass to become an authentic leader. The author uses first-person interviews and research to help readers craft personal leadership development plans. The plan focuses on key areas including: knowing your authentic self, defining your values and leadership principles, understanding your motivations, building your support team, and staying grounded by integrating all aspects of your life.
The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People – This is a well-known book by Stephen R. Covey that can be used for both personal and professional development. Throughout this read, you’ll learn how to handle personal and professional issues using a “holistic, integrated, [and] principle-centered approach.” You’ll also gain insight on how to adapt to change and grow from it. The seven habits evaluated in this book include:
- Be Proactive
- Begin with the End in Mind
- Put First Things First
- Think Win/Win
- Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood
- Synergize
- Sharpen the Saw
The Leadership Challenge, 5th edition – Authors James Kouzes and Barry Posner discuss all things leadership in this insightful read (now in its 5th edition). The book has been translated into 20 different languages and has sold over 2 million copies worldwide. While reading, business leaders will get a look at various case studies that show how “The Five Practices of Exemplary Leadership” are used around the world. In this fifth edition, Kouzes and Posner focus on the issues that leaders face in today’s world, making it relevant for any modern professional.
Tribes – Seth Godin’s nationwide bestseller takes a look at our societal need to form tribes under a single leader or idea. Our tribes today are continuing to grow thanks to the internet and social media; but, many don’t want to lead these tribes due to a fear of criticism or being wrong. Godin evaluates why there is a great need for leaders and how they can use a variety of tools to get the job done. According to Forbes this book “shows that being a leader may not be easy, but it’s probably easier than you thought.”
Navigating Chaos – Jeff Boss uses his experience as a Navy SEAL to help readers overcome tough situations. After reading, you’ll understand how perseverance, humility, and a team-first attitude help overall success. The author uses anecdotes from both the military and business worlds to show how companies can remain strong through times of chaos.
The knowledge from books opens doors for us in ways that we could never expect. Leaders that want to continue providing value to their ecosystems must continue to learn and challenge their current models. Keep developing personally and professionally by taking the time to read every day.