It’s officially summer, and with July 4th
just around the corner, it’s a perfect time to carve out time for your summer reading list. Here are a few books that are on my list this summer.
1. Give and Take by Adam Grant: An organizational psychologist and professor at Wharton, Grant examines whether giving might be the secret to getting ahead. As someone who believes strongly that relationships are what drive our business success, Give and Take is a compelling read. Grant does a great job of incorporating research alongside personal case studies to make for a meaty but engaging read.
2. Mindset by Carol Dweck: From CEOs to coaches to parents, I’ve found myself recommending this book over and over again. Dweck, a Stanford University psychologist, has done years of research on achievement and success. What she has to say about the power of our mindset will change how you approach your own goals and how you communicate with those you lead.
3. Eleven Rings by Phil Jackson: I like to read from a diverse range of perspectives, and some of my favorite books have been from athletes or coaches. Eleven Rings, the latest from legendary NBA coach (and newly minted New York Knicks team president Phil Jackson, is next up on my summer reading list. Nicknamed the “Zen Master,” Jackson is a compelling figure because of his ability to get his teams, and stars like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant, to perform at the highest level while staying true to his own unique philosophy. Go behind the scenes with the man behind the 11 championship rings.
4. Daring Greatly by Brene Brown: I’m a big fan of Brene Brown’s research on topics like vulnerability. In Daring Greatly, she challenges our assumptions about vulnerability and encourages us to be more vulnerable in order to grow and find meaningful connection. If you like her work, you should also check out her earlier book, The Gifts of Imperfection. In it, Brown guides us towards a way of wholehearted living and engagement.
5. Drive by Daniel Pink: Drive is my latest read by author Daniel Pink, in which he asks what truly motivates people? Pink argues against conventional structure that emphasizes financial rewards as the prime motivator. Instead, he argues that the three elements of true motivation are intrinsic—autonomy, mastery and purpose. This is a great read, especially for those in a managerial role.
