What To Read in 2024!
In 2023, I decided to elevate my reading habits intentionally. Historically, I would, at best, manage to get through about 6 books in a year. Consequently, as each year concluded, I grappled with a sense of guilt, feeling like another year had slipped away without fully leveraging my intellectual capital. I not only failed to capitalize on it but also felt like I squandered it. However, last year marked a significant shift. With dedicated focus and a little help from an Audible subscription, I successfully completed 24 books.
This newfound commitment to reading had a few noticeable outcomes. First, I experienced substantial learning. While this might sound like a given, the extent to which new ideas, perspectives, and approaches were introduced to me truly struck me. Secondly, my awareness of my preferred learning modality – listening – was heightened. Engaging with Audible not only enhanced how I absorbed information from books but also improved my listening skills in various conversations.
Also, an interesting development was the frequency with which people started asking me about my reading habits or seeking recommendations for good leadership books. Whether it was due to recency bias or not, I found myself evolving into a more proactive recommender of good reads.
This final observation served as the inspiration for this blog post. As you step into 2024, if you are on the lookout for books to aid your leadership development journey, I hope this article will help you. Reflecting on my reading list, I’ve distilled the top 5 books from 2023, accompanied by a bonus recommendation. I trust this list proves beneficial to you, and that it contributes to the ongoing cultivation of the wisdom (the combination of knowledge and action) in your leadership pursuits this coming year.
The List
The 6 Types of Working Genius
by Patrick Lencioni
Link:
https://www.workinggenius.com/
Summary:
In Patrick Lencioni’s insightful framework, “The 6 Types of Working Genius,” he identifies six distinct types of natural aptitudes that individuals possess when it comes to approaching work. These types (Wonder, Invention, Discernment, Galvanizing, Enablement, and Tenacity) capture the unique ways people contribute to and engage with tasks. Lencioni emphasizes that understanding and aligning individuals’ working geniuses within a team or organization can significantly enhance collaboration, productivity, and overall job satisfaction. By recognizing and leveraging these inherent strengths, leaders can strategically deploy and organize their teams, ensuring a well-rounded and effective approach to achieving results.
Why you should read it:
This book will unlock personal and team potential, providing practical actionable insights for improving work processes and enhance overall team effectiveness.
Drive by Daniel Pink
Link:
https://www.danpink.com/books/drive/
Summary:
In this book, the author delves into the science of motivation, challenging traditional beliefs and introducing a fresh perspective on what truly drives human behavior. Pink argues that autonomy, mastery, and purpose are key elements fostering intrinsic motivation, debunking the myth that monetary rewards alone lead to optimal performance. Through engaging anecdotes and compelling research, Pink guides readers to reevaluate their approach to motivation, offering valuable insights and practical methods for both personal and professional development.
Why you should read it:
This book will give you a profound understanding of motivation, and will help you move from “getting people to achieve, to “getting them to want to achieve”.
Right Away, and All at Once
by Greg Brenneman
Link:
https://www.amazon.com/Right-Away-All-At-Once/dp/0795347480
Summary:
“Right Away and All at Once” is a compelling guide that draws on the author’s extensive experience in turning around struggling businesses. Brenneman shares actionable insights on leadership, strategic decision-making, and effective management, emphasizing the importance of swift, comprehensive action in times of crisis. His real-world examples and practical advice make this book a valuable resource for leaders seeking to navigate challenges and drive positive change in their organizations.
Why you should read it:
If you find yourself in a position where a swift turnaround is imperative for your company or department, Brenneman’s five-phase approach is your accelerated pathway to success.
Trust by Henry Cloud
Link:
https://www.drcloud.com/books/trust
Summary:
In “Trust” Cloud, the renowned psychologist, explores the intricate dynamics of trust within relationships, whether personal or professional. Cloud dives into the components that contribute to the establishment and erosion of trust, offering insightful perspectives and practical guidance. Drawing on psychological principles and real-world examples, the book provides a roadmap for building, repairing, and maintaining trust, emphasizing its crucial role in fostering healthy connections and achieving personal and professional success.
Why you should read it:
Leaders should read “Trust” to gain invaluable insights into the multifaceted nature of trust, and to equip themselves with the knowledge and strategies needed to cultivate and sustain trust within their teams and organizations, thus fostering a culture of collaboration and success.
The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown
Link:
https://www.danieljamesbrown.com/books/the-boys-in-the-boat/
Summary:
“Boys in the Boat” is a captivating true story that brings us back to the era of the Great Depression, unfolding the remarkable story of the University of Washington’s rowing team. Against a backdrop of economic hardship and global tensions, the book follows the journey of 8 young oarsmen as they navigate personal challenges and form an extraordinary bond, culminating in their triumph at the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Brown brings to life the resilience, teamwork, and indomitable spirit that propelled these athletes to become unlikely heroes and inspirations for generations to come.
Why you should read it:
Leaders should read “Boys in the Boat” for its powerful portrayal of teamwork, perseverance, and overcoming adversity, drawing valuable insights on leadership and inspiration from the extraordinary journey of the main characters.
Bonus Recommendation
The Go-Giver Marriage
by John David Mann and Ana Gabriel Mann
Link:
https://thegogiver.com/tgg-marriage/
Summary:
In “The Go-Giver Marriage,” the authors suggest 5 core principles of a successful and fulfilling marriage. Rooted in the philosophy that giving precedes receiving, the book imparts invaluable lessons on the significance of selflessness, generosity, and mutual support within the context of a marital relationship. With heartwarming anecdotes and practical wisdom, the Mann’s guide readers toward a harmonious and thriving partnership, proving that the principles of giving and adding value extend seamlessly to the realm of matrimony.
Why you should read it:
For those who are married, this book guides us on a journey to first succeed in a thriving marriage relationship, which will in turn, boost our ability to thrive in our professional lives.