5 Books That Have Inspired Me

Some of you may be aware that I run an Instagram Book Blog - @Honest.Book.Guy - where I share my latest reads, alongside providing reviews & recommendations. While I definitely over-index in Fiction (particularly anything with a good twist), I also dabble in the big bad world of Non-Fiction. This is particularly true for a good business-related zinger. As such, I thought I should share a few books that I've read over the last year or so that have inspired me, changed my thinking, or were simply outright page-turners.

1) Shoe Dog - Phil Knight

I must have recommended this to almost everyone I know. I love this book so much. A deeply personal yet captivating insight into Phil Knight's grassroots creation of the Nike Empire, focusing on the formative years between 1962-80. Knight captures every step of his iconic journey, from selling his first pair of shoes out of his parent's basement to hitting a $40 billion dollar turnover. You are left blown away by Knight's determination, his ability to influence those around him, and his outright eye for an opportunity.

This book is a testament to sheer hard work and is deeply inspirational. In fact, it makes you want to start your own business and definitely ignites the entrepreneurial spark for any reader.

Favorite Quote: "Don't tell people how to do things, tell them what to do and let them surprise you with their results"

2) How to Win Friends & Influence People - Dale Carnegie

As many of us do, I've reached a contented life stage of holding a much smaller group of friends, with little intention (or perhaps capability!) to expand my social circles. The importance of truly knowing those around you is epitomized in Dale Carnegie's timeless classic. Written in 1936, I believe there still isn't a better EQ book around. Simple and straightforward it gives a list of principles in which to interact with and ultimately influence those around you. The advice varies from simply "smile" to "let them do most of the talking". Be warned though, you have to dig through the outdated, inapplicable, or even at times borderline inappropriate emblems of the time in order to find the real golden nuggets. However, SO much of it still rings true today and I love the storytelling tools Carnegie employs to bring his principles to life. I've definitely applied this in my working life and should try and remember to do so more often.

For those looking for a slightly more updated or PC version, there is an extension of ...In the Digital Age you can pick up, but for the authentic experience I'd still recommend the original.

Favorite Quote: "The way to develop the best that is in a person is by appreciation and encouragement"

3) 21 Lessons for the 21st Century - Yuval Noah Harari

From the man who brought us Sapiens and Homo Deus, 21 Lessons tackles some of the bubbling challenges for 21st Century humans. One of the things I admire most about YNH is his ability to distill complex topics down into accessible language.

This genuinely is such a fascinating book and reminds you of all the incredible advancements humans have made only in recent centuries; whilst blatantly forewarning us of the seismic challenges that await us in the years to come. Topics vary from work, transport, religion, war, and even fake news. I can't see many failing to enjoy this read, particularly as YNH breaks down really complex issues into layman's terms that anyone can appreciate. I've found that one of the key challenges I face on a day-to-day basis is pulling my head out of the now and thinking further forward, this kind of read helps you to remember why doing so is critical to survive and thrive in this century.

Favorite Quote: "Though the challenges are unprecedented, and though the disagreements are intense, human-kind can rise to the occasion if we keep our fears under control and be a bit more humble about our views."

4) Legacy; What the All Blacks can teach us about the business of life - James Kerr

As a lifelong rugby fan, I simply couldn't avoid picking this up. While I adamantly detest (fear is probably a better word) the All Black Rugby Team in favor of my love for my native country, you simply have to admire them at the same time. Unquestionably one of the most successful sporting franchises of all time, having won 75% of all their matches in the past century, Kerr's book explores what it takes to both achieve and maintain such high standards. You can't help but be charmed by the lessons around leadership, teamwork, and decision-making that come through.

One of the chapters that I particularly enjoyed was around character building. This was all about not letting yourself become too big to not do the little things or in All Black language "sweeping the shed (changing rooms) after a major win". Another prevalent chapter was around the importance of the team over individuals, where super talented individuals who couldn't play well with the wider team would be axed from the squad. There are so many testaments to beliefs that we are all aware of, but that are reinforced in this book through great examples. I couldn't recommend this book more to anyone trying to build or be part of, a high-performing team

Favorite Quote: "Create the highest possible operating standards, develop the character of your players, develop the culture of your team and... the score takes care of itself"

5) The Ride of a Lifetime; Lessons in Creative Leadership - Robert Iger

I started this article with a business autobiography and I'll finish with one too. A lot of people will likely be unaware of who Bob Iger is and, being honest, I had only loosely heard of him before I came across this book in Bill Gate's spring reading list in 2020. For those who don't know Bob Iger was the former CEO of Disney between 2005 and 2020. Okay, that's quite impressive, but would I really want to read a book about the guy?? *I hear those couple of people who have managed to make it this far down say*. The answer is an enigmatic YES.

I was intrigued by how this book had made its way alongside such an esteemed list of reads that Gates recommends on a quarterly basis. But having read it, I can totally understand why. Iger totally transformed the Disney business during his tenure. After a string of box office flops, underperforming theme parks, and a general lack of direction, Iger quickly changed the trajectory, identifying the business's weaknesses he oversaw the takeover of Pixar, the acquisition of Marvel, Lucas Arts, and Fox as well as expanding his theme park empire. You can't help but be inspired by his ability to drive change, influence those around him and lead with creativity.

Favorite Quote: "True authority and true leadership come from knowing who you are and not pretending to be anything else."

That brings me nicely to a close for this article. Hopefully, you enjoyed perusing my five book suggestions. This is certainly no exhaustive list and I would love to hear recommendations from anyone else. Next on my list is "That will Never Work" from the founders of Netflix.