5 Books That Have Influenced my Business Analysis Journey

Reading has always been a passion of mine. From the time I was a child, I could often be found curled up in a corner with a book in my hands, exploring far-off lands and exciting adventures in the pages of literature. That love of reading never faded, and over the years,? I’ve discovered some incredible books that have truly transformed my life including the ones that have fueled my career as a Business Analyst. In this article, I have included 5 titles from my collection that I would recommend to anyone in the field of business analysis. There have been quite a number of others but these ones quickly come to mind because they are the most recent reads that have lessons which I can tie back to my activities as a business analyst. I have listed the titles in no particular order.

1. Atomic Habits by James Clear

At first glance, this book is supposed to be about forming good habits and breaking bad ones; but James Clear uses the content of these pages to offer a unique perspective on how to improve life and career. With this quote, "you do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems" Clear uses the book to create a template for developing systems. He also explains that an easy way to achieve goals is by observing the systems that are in place. With several examples, he dives into explaining how to create successful systems in different life scenarios.

2. Called to Create: A Biblical Invitation to Create, Innovate and Risk by Jordan Raynor

I found Jordan Raynor's book 'Called to Create to be an enlightening read. His message of the power of creation in each of us is inspiring and empowering. He opens the book with a powerful introduction to the creation story in Genesis, reminding us of God's role as the first Creator and the creativity that He has infused into us all.?

As a Business Analyst, I am often faced with challenges and tasked with finding solutions to business problems. This often requires me to use my creativity and think outside the box and? Raynor's story and that of other entrepreneurs who took risks and created amazing things gave me the confidence to do just that!? Helping me to become a better problem solver and to use my collaboration and creativity skills to solve complex problems. This book has shaped my life and my career in a profound way and will be a great read for anyone who wants to ignite their creativity and innovation.??

3. Find Your Why? by Simon Sinek with David Mead and Peter Docker

If you're a fan of TED Talks, then chances are you've heard of Simon Sinek! He is in one of the most viewed TED Talks of all time. The authors in this book explain that having a compelling "why" is extremely important for success and that having a meaningful purpose should be the foundation of any goal. By understanding the power of “why” people can tap into the deepest part of themselves and access their true potential. They suggest that by drawing on that potential, people can create a life of fulfilment and success, and ultimately achieve their goals.

When I first read it, I felt like I was getting a much-needed wake-up call.?

This book has enabled me to refocus my business and life in a way that I never thought possible. By understanding the power of “why” and the importance of having a strong purpose, I have been able to hone in on exactly what I need to do to achieve my goals. It provides practical advice, useful tools and inspiring stories that can help you get clarity on your “why” and create a plan of action to reach your goals. By understanding the power of why you can tap into the deepest part of yourself and access your true potential.

If you haven't read it,? don't wait any longer!

4. Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World that Can't Stop Talking by Susan Cain

This book is an eye-opener into the psyche of introverts and extroverts and what makes them think and act differently. Susan Cain takes us on a journey of understanding their unique strengths and weaknesses, and how they approach problem-solving with interesting case studies and research.

Before reading this book I had always felt like I was at a disadvantage in both my personal and professional life because of my introversion. However, going through it helped me accept my introversion and learn to recognise it as a strength, rather than a weakness. As well as how to better collaborate with others and take advantage of my natural talents.

As a Business Analyst, I get to work on projects with a wide range of people, from clients to colleagues. One of the most valuable lessons I've learned from this book is that introverts have the same potential and ability as extroverts and that it's important to find ways to recharge and refresh in order to stay energised and productive. This book is a must for anybody who is an introvert or works with one because it explains when introverts seem to carry out their best work and how they refresh and recharge their emotional power banks.

5. The McKinsey Way by Ethan Rasiel

Have you ever wondered why McKinsey & Company is known as the powerhouse of problem-solving?? Then this book will open up a whole new world of understanding for you.?

Ethan Rasiel in his book “The McKinsey way” shares his experiences and provides insights into how the professionals within the consulting firm are taught to approach and solve business problems for their high-powered clients. Breaking down some of the beliefs "McKinseyites" are taught to possess when they start off as associates, which helps them get through the various aspects of their career journeys.

Through Ethan Rasiel’s experiences at McKinsey, I got to understand the value of being patient, calm and open-minded when engaging with stakeholders. As well as the importance of being prepared for every meeting and ensuring that you have a good understanding of the client’s problem. And how it is not enough to just bring solutions to the table but to be prepared to explain why it is the best solution. Especially when working with multiple stakeholders, as each one will have their own objectives and needs. The tools and techniques shared in this book are invaluable and l would recommend it to any Business Analyst who wants to learn how to deliver solutions in a way that will be appreciated by the stakeholders.

There are many other books that could be on this list, but it would be impossible to enumerate them all. Hence, these are just a few of the favourites that have had the most impact on my life and career and have helped me move toward my goals.