There’s nothing like completing a good book. I got through 19 books this year, and as an aspiring author, I can say that all books are not created equal. Of the 19 books I completed, I chose six to share with you, complete with my takeaways. I encourage you to select 1 or 2 and find your takeaways in 2025:
Million Dollar Weekend, by Noah Kagan—Takeaway: Be bold, look for ways to take your ideas, and turn them into opportunities to live the life you want. I really like how this author positions the concept of rejection and what it means to lean into rejection to discover opportunities for success.
The Courage to be Disliked, by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga - Takeaway: All conflict is interpersonal. The certainty that conflict will be present in our relationships should deter us from conflict but serve as a means of strengthening our relationships as we bring choice to each interaction. I appreciate the conversational setting in which the authors bring two main characters to the book. The back and forth is compelling as I find myself sitting in the seat of each character based on the context of the discussion. This is one I will read again and again.
The Six Types of Working Genius, by Patrick Lencioni - Takeaway: Though not a new realization, this book brings a new appreciation to the idea that work can shift to best suit the team's makeup. I encourage every people leader to have this book on their bookshelf as it provides lessons in how to reflect, shift, and implement change that best supports the team's superpowers. I appreciate the author’s storytelling and sharing of principles and insights.
Ego is the Enemy, by Ryan Holiday—Takeaway: This book is well written, has a great pace, and can serve as a mirror for how leaders set themselves up for failure. If you are a senior leader, a budding entrepreneur, or simply someone who wants to lean into the practice of growing your self-awareness, get this book. The author has other books that I will dive into in 2025, and we’ll see if they make this list.
Hidden Potential, by Adam Grant—Takeaway: This book is an excellent reminder of our lives' inherent purpose. It is another shelf helper for leaders and team libraries. The author uses his research prowess and humor to explore how to unlock and tap into the potential many of us set aside or fear leaning into.
I love reading because it provides insight into how others think about and experience the world and its context. I’m already excited about next year’s list. I’d love to learn from you—what books are on your must-read list for 2024?
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