For CEOs, summer is an excellent opportunity to catch up on some reading if you’re seeking inspiration, new strategies, or an escape from the everyday chaos. Here are seven thought-provoking books that will challenge your thinking and equip you with valuable leadership skills. Dive into these engaging reads and return to the fall season feeling refreshed and ready to tackle any task.
Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don’t Know by Adam Grant – This book challenges the traditional view of intelligence as simply acquiring knowledge. Grant argues that the most successful people can rethink their ideas and adapt to new information. He explores the psychology of learning, persuasion, and how to develop a “learning mindset” that will keep you ahead of the curve.
The Biggest Bluff: How I Learned to Pay Attention, Master Myself, and Win by Maria Konnikova – Although this book might seem an unexpected choice, it delves into the world of competitive poker. Konnikova’s journey from novice to champion offers valuable insights into reading people, strategic thinking, and managing risk. These are all crucial skills for CEOs in any industry.
Outliers: The Story of Success by Malcolm Gladwell – Gladwell’s classic explores the factors contributing to extraordinary success. He dives into the concept of “outliers”—individuals who achieve remarkable things—and examines the role of factors like opportunity, deliberate practice, and cultural legacy. The book can inspire CEOs to create environments that foster innovation and high company performance.
Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of Nike by Phil Knight is an inspiring memoir that tells the story of Phil Knight, who co-founded Nike from his college dorm room. It chronicles the company’s rise from a small startup selling shoes out of a van to a global sportswear powerhouse. Knight’s story is a testament to the perseverance, resilience, and adaptability required to build a successful business.
Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir – If you’re looking for a captivating escape, Project Hail Mary is a great choice. This science fiction thriller by Andy Weir throws you into the story of an amnesiac astronaut who wakes up on a spaceship with no memory of his mission. As he pieces together the clues, he must use his ingenuity and scientific knowledge to survive a seemingly impossible situation. It’s a thrilling adventure, with surprising depth about human potential.
Sound Power: Leading Positive Change in a Complex World by Rosabeth Moss Kanter – It’s no longer enough for businesses to focus on profit. Consumers and employees alike expect companies to have a positive social impact. Yhr nook explores how businesses can lead positive change without sacrificing profitability. A Harvard Business School professor, Kanter argues that companies that embrace purpose-driven leadership are more successful, and create a better world for all.
Slow Productivity: How to Accomplish More by Doing Less by Cal Newport – CEOs are notoriously busy, but busyness doesn’t always equal productivity. In Slow Productivity, Cal Newport, author of the best-selling book Deep Work, argues for a more deliberate approach to work. He challenges the idea of constant busyness, and instead advocates for strategies that help leaders focus on the most important tasks, and achieve more with less.
CEOs must read regularly to stay informed about industry trends, gain new perspectives, and enhance strategic thinking. It promotes continuous learning, innovation, and better decision-making, which is essential for maintaining a competitive edge. Reading also improves communication skills, broadens knowledge, and enables meaningful connections with teams and stakeholders, creating a culture of growth and development within the organization.
With these diverse selections and tips, your summer reading adventure awaits.
Jennifer Williams | Editor-In-Chief
