18 Books I Read in 2018

This year I tried to mix in as many “business classics” as I could and due to the multiple extended and re-written versions of the books, it made it difficult to read more than 18 books. I also read a great deal of biblically based books as my faith is critical to my life’s path. I realize I may alienate some by stating the importance of my faith but I hope you can respect the level of commitment to self-improvement in order to help others.  

The second focus for this year was on leadership, because as Dave Ramsey states on his radio show; The Total Money Makeover; “Readers are leaders.” We have an epidemic of poor management in our society and the only cure for this issue is to help create leaders. There are always some great memes floating around social media which denote what leaders do and how much better it is to be a leader instead of just a manager. Unfortunately, many people don’t understand that they are part of the problem instead of being part of the solution (leading). I’d truly like to know what your thoughts are on the books listed below. Please feel free to comment, and know in advance how much I appreciate your thoughts!

Roaring Lambs – Bob Briner – This book has timeless wisdom and even though the author passed away in 1999 his advice still stands. Bob started his media empire by creating televised tennis tournaments and used his Christian faith to lead and guide his business decisions. He does a great job of calling out the Christian mainstream for creating a “sub-culture” and inspires them to lead with their faith.

Think and Grow Rich – Napoleon Hill – This book is a classic and focuses on helping you not accept the standard operating position most people find themselves in. Mr. Hill inspires you to look at your resources and understand how to leverage your potential and grow into a more fulfilling role/purpose.

Originals – Adam Grant, Sheryl Sandberg – While I appreciate the insight I gained regarding the stories that were shared in this book it left me with a lot of conflict. The focus was supposed to be about how to create an original message/story in today’s all to often re-hashed society. This book really missed the mark by trying to make things which weren’t original seem like they were. There are better examples of originality than the stories in this book.

When Giants Were Upon the Earth – Brian Godwa – If you are a geek about Christian theology, you might appreciate the ideas expressed by the author, otherwise they might turn you off. Brian does a great job for laying out cases for many mysteries we find in scriptures throughout the Bible. Most of his book focuses on what could have happened without going overboard and stating plausible theories as facts. I found the book refreshing and interesting. If you think he is trying to start a new religion, then you are taking this way too seriously. 

Building A Story Brand – Donald Miller – This book is a must read before you begin in marketing campaign on personal branding. Donald does a great job of laying out his marketing concept based on the story line  of succession of events: where you began, who you are, and where you’re going. This “Story Brand” is critical to your success because it lets people and clients know the whole story and how they can get involved.

 Leaders Eat Last – Simon Sinek – Simon has quickly become one of my favorite authors.  All of his books provide great insight both personally and professionally. This book puts humility as the central quality all leaders must have as past of their core competency, mindset, and character. Many people claim to be leaders bet few show why they are leaders without having to state it.

Spiritual Warfare – Karl Payne – This book should be “Mission Critical” for all Christians. You may not want to acknowledge it but whether you admit or accept it, the fact remains that we are all under spiritual attack. This book provides a step by step biblical approach on how to handle spiritual warfare. 

The Richest Man in Babylon – George S Clason – Through the use of a fictional story set in an ancient civilization, the author presents timeless fiscal practices. I do not appreciate the anti-Semitism in the book, but I do acknowledge the cultural and historical reference to it. The book is a short, easy read with good advice.

Soul Revolution – Josh Burke – This book is great to go through with an accountability partner or a small men’s bible study group. John does a great job of laying out the biblical responsibilities to meet the needs all men have with an accountability partner. 

The Millionaire Next Door – William D Danko, Thomas J Stanley – This book addresses how get rich quick schemes and winning the lottery are not the best way to build a fortune. It takes a lifetime to build wealth for most people and sound fiscal practices make it possible. If you are not inclined to be an entrepreneur or born into wealth this book will help you build your fortune over a long period.

Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters – Meg Meeker – Dr. Meeker was a child physician for ten years and a child psychologist for ten years too. She thoroughly understands how children develop on both levels and does a great job of giving fathers a little more insight into what our daughters are going through. This was my re-read for this year as I don’t want to lose sight of being the best father I can be.

How to Win Friends and Influence People – Dale Carnegie – This is a timeless classic book! It does not matter what your profession is, whether you are single/married, religious or not, this book tells you how to be successful with one of the hardest things in life; other people. Dale’s book should be required reading for every student, parent, or anyone who regularly breathes oxygen.

How to Lead When You’re Not In Charge – Clay Scroggins – Clay’s book will be put in my re-read rotation because the book is very helpful. His main premise is that we all must lead with our actions even if we don’t have a position of authority. Poor management is in such an epidemic state and anything like this book which inspires true leaders to rise up is a great thing to be a part of.

The Last Arrow – Erwin Raphael McManus – Warning; this book will inspire you to do more with your life than you are currently doing. Erwin provides a great amount of biblically based advise and sound theology to lead you through tough decisions so you can grow more personally, professionally, and spiritually.

 Option B – Sheryl Sandberg, Adam Grant – Do not read this book! The book is supposed to be about how to deal with issues when plan A doesn’t go according to plan. While I empathize with Sharyl’s tragic loss of her husband, there is little to nothing good which comes from this book. If you would like to learn more about the book please read this review:  https://www.audible.com/listener/A3AG7Y74SHKVGC?ref=a_pd_Option_c15_rvlsnl_0&pf_rd_p=fac12640-98ad-4d54-a5fc-eec45741ae34&pf_rd_r=2FVP7B5RQCG2JBAQ5A68&

The Third Door – Alex Banayan – Alex’s story is truly inspirational and this is a hard book to put down once you start reading it. I am grateful that he was willing to share his vulnerabilities to help others not settle with what they have been given. I did not care for the “trendy” people he sought to get advise from because they have not done anything that warrants my respect. 

The 4 Hour Work Week – Tim Faris – Alex Banayan rants and raves about Tim Faris’ book, so I was inspired by Alex to read Tim’s book. There is a lot of great advice given in this book and while the applications may not be the best fit for your situation, it is great to think about how you can solve your professional issues. I did not care for Tim’s priorities of travel, but his point is still valid to live your life and not wait on a potential “retirement” before you get to enjoy your life.

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People – Stephen R Covey – I have read a lot of excerpts and quotes from Stephen Covey over the years. I have even been to a seminar about the book, so I’ve had a good understanding of the 7 habits since I was in college. It was great to finally read this book and get affirmation from its sage council. This too should be a must read for everyone on the planet!