10 Books For Your Reading List

I’ve always been a literature lover. Perhaps my passion for books stems from my mother who was an English teacher or the experiences I had at Jackson Public Library during my childhood. Later in life during long commutes, I found a way to satisfy my desire to keep learning about history, leadership, management and innovation through audiobooks. Now, I have the opportunity to share with you the collection of my favorite books.

10. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey

This has been a top-selling book for many years and has likely come across your radar. I often think of a former boss and mentor who once asked me, “do you want to be right or do you want to be effective?” From habit one to habit seven you’ll learn the tips, tricks and most importantly the principles of how to be effective in today’s world.

9. The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren

The book is intended to be read over the course of 40 days as an inspirational look at answering the question, “what on earth am I here for?”

8. Parting the Waters: America in the King Years 1954-63 by Taylor Branch

This is the first book in a trilogy about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the moments leading to the climax of the civil rights movement. You’re sure to be enlightened by the story of how a transformational leader was shaped and moved to make a positive impact on the world with his beliefs, words and most importantly actions.

7. Trade Up! by Rayona Sharpnak

What do you think about yourself? Are those thoughts holding you back or pushing you forward? Trade Up! provides five steps to help you reset the “context” of your thoughts.

6. Results From the Heart by Kiyoshi Suzaki

Your head and your heart have to work together – not in silos – to help you find meaning and purpose in the work you do. Suzaki presents a self-questioning exercise that will help you realize that you’re the president of your own area of responsibility.

5. Switch by Chip Heath & Dan Heath

The ability to “change” can be difficult. The Heath brothers cover the rational mind and the emotional mind – systems significant in the decision making process. When each part of the mind is competing it’s hard to change. But, when the right thinking and systems are put in place remarkable outcomes can be achieved.

4. The Three Signs of a Miserable Job by Patrick Lencioni

People want to be appreciated for their unique talents. People want to know what they are doing matters and that they are making progress towards success. Every manager of people should read this quick book to ensure they’re utilizing the right framework for engaged and successful teams.

3. Social Innovation, Inc. by Jason Saul

When a company stands for more than profits amazing things happen. This book taps into how businesses benefit when they realize they have a bigger role to play in solving societal conundrums.

2. Toyota Kata by Mike Rother

When you pick up this book, you’re in for a treat in understanding how Toyota ticks and what has enabled them to be a best-in-class, lean operating organization. Continuous improvement – every day in big or small ways – is key to success.

1. Future Builders by George Bush

This book will always hold a special spot in my heart and is a must read for Consumers Energy employees or anyone interested in the history of the energy industry. For 130 years our company has been privileged to serve the people of Michigan. Future Builders highlights the accomplishments achieved, challenges faced and opportunities taken by our predecessors. We have a wonderful legacy to be proud of and learn from.

My bookcase can never be too full. What are your recommendations of books I must read? Share in the comments below!