Re-Examine, Re-Imagine and Re-Energize with These Books

Every summer since 2017 I’ve shared reading recommendations because leaders are readers.

Slow down enough to check out new releases and old favorites to enhance your effectiveness. And perhaps your fulfillment.

Big Little Legends
By Gair Maxwell

Gair is an accomplished strategist, masterful storyteller and a good friend, and his new book provides practical insights for bringing your remarkable story to life so that it becomes irresistible to others. You’ll be surprised by the simplicity, low cost and power of his proven ideas.

The Wisdom of the Bullfrog
By Admiral William H. McRaven

In 2011, McRaven became the “Bull Frog” – the longest-serving Navy SEAL on active duty – until his 2014 retirement following thirty-seven years of service. These eighteen leadership lessons cover crisis management, organizational transitions, ethical dilemmas and scenario planning, including the raid for Osama bin Laden.

1,501 Ways to Reward Employees
By Bob Nelson, Ph.D.

First published in 2012, this book shows its age a bit yet remains a great source of low-cost and no-cost ideas for leaders wrestling with ways to recognize and engage their colleagues. Money isn’t everything.

Halftime
By Bob Buford

Don’t wait until you’ve achieved success to start thinking about striving for significance. Whether you’re on the front half of your career or the second half, use this book as a guide to help you figure out your path toward living a life of fulfillment.

Essentialism
By Greg McKeown

Essentialism isn’t about getting more things done, it’s about choosing the right things to accomplish. Ask: “Will this activity or effort make the highest possible contribution toward my most important goals?”

The Circle of Innovation
By Tom Peters

In 1982, Tom Peters co-authored In Search of Excellence then hit the speaker circuit. Five years and four hundred seminars later, Peters refined his views on innovation and collected his insights into this book. A CEO now leading a quarter-billion company told me that reading this book years ago sparked him to rethink the ordinary. You can’t shrink your way to greatness.

Decision Time
By Greg Bustin

Fifty-two bite-sized lessons examine make-or-break decisions from history’s biggest moments. You’ll discover decision-making models embraced by history’s most notable leaders. You’ll meet people who were considered too old for the challenge, too young, too foolish, or otherwise seemingly unfit for the iconic role they would play in history. Yet the decisions they made in their make-or-break moment changed history’s trajectory and can inspire and guide you when it’s time for you to decide. Enjoy!

Contact Greg Bustin today to schedule your free leadership consultation.