“Readers are leaders, Barb, so if you want to succeed, and even become a leader you need to develop a lifestyle of reading as much as you can, as frequently as you can.”
This quote was one i heard frequently. My parents advocated that i grow by learning, reading, absorbing as much as i could. And academia reminded me that success involved knowing the material, studying dutifully, learning all i could and internalizing it into my life. Work, wherever it is, has required learning systems, processes, and organizational structure. And lately i have realized that reading is one of the major themes of my life…. i love to read. I love to absorb new information, and grow in areas where i lack knowledge. And books have provided some amazing and wonderful insight.
I have been reading books focused on business organization, leadership and enterpreneurialism, and wanted to suggest a few books to you, should you wish to read them:
2. Personality Plus by Florence Littauer – Based on the greek model that there are 4 fundamental personality types, and we each have a dominant characteristic in how we live… This might help to understand yourself, and then be able to understand others you work and do business with.
3. 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey – A classic to define purpose, and effectively manage your time. From his book I have developed a passion for planning my day, my week, month and year. And when i am true to the planning i often am true to the plan and accomplish more.
4. Good to Great by Jim Collins – Amazing insight into why some companies are long lasting, and others fail. This has helped us to develop a plan for growing the business which requires a 360 degree review of the environment, market, product and plan.
5. Tribes by Seth Goden – Actually anything by Seth Goden has been powerfully insightful. Seth is able to cut through the muck and mire, and offer clear insight into structuring life in a way that will leave a legacy, and gives you tools that will make it possible for others to want to follow you.
6. The Bible – It should be number one on the list, as the information and impact it has had in my life is profound. The truth is nothing is new under this sun – and the bible captures everything – concern for dealing with others, how to have ethics, do business well, and honor one another.
Books are great, and i honestly always have something in the pipeline to read. Right now on the table by my bed are three books i want to finish… and a growing wish list of more to read.
But I also love blogs, and web sites for information. Here are a few of the most influential business sites i read on a regular basis:
There are a ton of other sources i go to, read summaries online, and keep in touch with. But this is a great start if you are looking for information and inspiration for your own business. I hope this encourages you.