What are you reading lately? Do you have a stack on your bedside table?
One of the most important things a leader can do is read to stay stimulated, keep a sharp mind and improve their leadership skills. I know from my own experience that many times a business book will present material I’ve seen before, but it does so in a way that strikes a chord and makes a difference in my leadership or productivity now. That’s right – it makes sense now when it didn’t on previous encounters with the same information. Bingo – inspiration!
So here’s what I’m reading and why:
- The Impact Equation by Chris Brogan and Julien Smith (release date 10/25/12 – if you haven’t already pre-ordered, I highly recommend it. I originally requested a preview copy so I could write a review, since I’m taking the Blog Topics Master Class with Chris Brogan. But what I’ve discovered is that there is so much information about getting your message out that I have highlights and post-its on practically every page and am having to read slowly to absorb it all! This will definitely be a book I revisit often.
- How to Talk to Anyone, Anytime, Anywhere by Larry King – this was homework for Blog Topics Master Class, but has turned into a nice little read. Larry King has a delightfully casual style of writing, so it feels like we’re sitting down with a cup of coffee for a chat. I’m learning all sorts of ways to be a better conversationalist.
- Love Works by Joel Manby – interviewed by Chris LoCurto for the EntreLeadership podcast, I cannot wait to dig into this material which promotes values like patience and empowerment in the workplace.
- God’s Promises for You by Max Lucado – a friend lent me this tiny volume that is jam packed with scripture and commentary broken down into different topics like praise, trust and grace.
Your turn, what are you reading and why?
My Private Universe 
October 25, 2012 at 10:45 am
I read Larry Kings book a few years ago and it’s a good one.
I’m reading John Maxwell’s book The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth and Fathered by God by John Eldredge.
I also read about 100 blog posts a week. I’m looking forward to reading your blog more.
October 25, 2012 at 11:12 am
Thank you Dan. I need to get The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth soon – and hadn’t seen Fathered by God. Yes- I too read quite a few blogs so it’s hard to keep up with it all. It is a growing process though.
October 26, 2012 at 1:00 pm
John’s books is a great read, I think you will enjoy it.
October 23, 2012 at 9:36 am
I’ve really increased my reading during the past six to nine months. I’ve included audio books (non-fiction) to my routine, since I drive about an hour a day by myself (well, I mix audio books and podcasts during my drives). I just finished listening to “17 Essential Traits of a Team Player” by John Maxwell and “Peaks and Valleys” by Spencer Johnson.
I recently finished “EntreLeadership” by Dave Ramsey. I’ve started “Love Works” by Joel Manby. Soon to be added to my in-possession-list is “The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth” by John Maxwell. I am also working through a book about creating clean code (programming/nerd stuff :), which actually has a lot of good lessons that transcend in other areas of life.
I know there’s others, but I’m not at home to check my desk! 🙂
October 24, 2012 at 4:03 am
You have increased your reading. Audio books are great, but my commute isn’t long enough – which is a good thing, but still. I loved Peaks and Valleys, and return frequently to EntreLeadership. Isn’t it funny how something specific like your code book can have other lessons – you are probably more open to them now since you’re reading so much. Thanks for sharing!
October 22, 2012 at 11:26 pm
I’m working on the Nerdist Way by Chris Hardwick and Wisdom Meets Passion by Dan Miller. I’m not a huge reader so I have been working on the Nerdist Way for a couple months now. Only chapter I haven’t read is the one on time management…go figure!
October 23, 2012 at 3:47 am
Wisdom Meets Passion is one I need to add to my list. Sometimes I struggle to get through things quickly because my only time to read is frequently at night – and I doze off! Hang in there though – it will be worth it!
October 22, 2012 at 8:11 am
Less than normal right now due to the time of year.
I tend to read 3-6 books at the same time. I’ve found it helps me connect the dots better.
My current list is:
The Alchemist (finally)
Mastering the Seven Decisions by Andy Andrews
Game Change (about the 2008 election)
The Richest Man in the World
October 22, 2012 at 8:34 am
That’s an interesting combination. I love Andy Andrews, but haven’t read that one, and I have to admit I haven’t read The Alchemist – need to. Thanks for commenting!