Five Books by John Maxwell Educational Leaders Can’t Miss

As a budding author, my goal is to inform and inspire leaders. The focus of the book I’m writing, “You’re in the Leadership Chair, Now What?” is to help women in leadership create the conditions for their success and those they serve. As a leader, you will face challenges; however, you can set yourself up for success by implementing specific strategies.

While my book encapsulates strategies I’ve used as a leader, learning from other leaders through their books has helped me grow into the leader I am today. As a result, when I mentor, train, and coach leaders, there are several great leadership books I recommend every leader have in their professional library.?

On a recent episode of the Maxwell Leadership podcast, Dr. John C. Maxwell shared the top five books he considers his most impactful, providing timeless lessons on leadership. So today, we will explore those books and their key lessons for educational leaders.

1. Developing the Leader Within You 2.0

“Developing the Leader Within You 2.0” is a cornerstone in John Maxwell’s collection. This book revolutionized the idea that leaders are made, not born. It offers ten critical principles for developing leadership skills, making it a must-read for anyone aspiring to lead effectively. Maxwell’s emphasis on self-improvement and intentional growth is the book’s highlight, establishing a solid foundation for leaders at any stage.

Key Lesson for Educational Leaders: Focus on self-improvement and intentional growth. Educators must continuously develop their skills to lead and inspire their teams effectively.

2. The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership

“The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership” is Maxwell’s bestselling book, often hailed as the bible of leadership. It provides clear, practical laws that leaders can follow to achieve success. Each law is backed by real-world examples and insights, making it both engaging and enlightening. This book’s popularity underscores its universal appeal and effectiveness in enhancing leadership skills.

Key Lesson for Educational Leaders: Understand and implement fundamental leadership principles. This ensures that your leadership is effective and impactful, creating a positive educational environment.

3. The 360 Degree Leader

“The 360 Degree Leader” broke new ground by addressing how to lead from the middle of an organization. Maxwell outlines the unique challenges and opportunities for middle managers to influence their superiors, peers, and subordinates. This book won the Business Book of the Year award for its innovative approach and practical advice, making it essential for leaders at every organizational level.

Key Lesson for Educational Leaders: Lead from every position. Whether you are a teacher, administrator, or district staff member, you have the power to influence and lead in multiple directions—upward, downward, and laterally.

4. The 5 Levels of Leadership

In “The 5 Levels of Leadership,” Maxwell presents a clear roadmap for leadership development. The book details five levels of leadership, from Position to Pinnacle, providing actionable steps to advance through each stage. It serves as both a guide for personal leadership growth and a manual for developing others, making it highly valuable for leaders focused on building effective teams.

Key Lesson for Educational Leaders: Develop a clear progression plan for leadership growth. Understand where you and your team are on this journey and work towards advancing through each level.

5. LeaderShift

“LeaderShift” addresses the necessity for leaders to be adaptable and agile in today’s fast-paced world. Written before the COVID-19 pandemic, its insights on pivoting and flexibility are more relevant than ever. This book encourages leaders to embrace change and stay ahead of the curve, highlighting the importance of continuous learning and innovation.

Key Lesson for Educational Leaders: Embrace change and stay ahead of the curve. Adaptability and continuous learning are crucial in the ever-evolving field of education.

Honorable Mention: High Road Leadership

John Maxwell’s “High Road Leadership” book aims to unite people in a divided world. It outlines twelve characteristics of a high-road leader, providing a vivid picture of ethical and effective leadership. Maxwell plans to use this book to mentor his grandchildren, emphasizing its practical and personal significance.

Key Lesson for Educational Leaders: Model ethical and inclusive leadership. In a time of division, educational leaders must exemplify high-road leadership to foster community unity and collaboration.

“Educators are the hope of America.” -John C. Maxwell

These books encapsulate John Maxwell’s profound insights into leadership, offering timeless advice and practical strategies. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just starting your journey, these books will equip you with the tools to lead effectively and ethically.

#EducationalLeader,

Kim

Click HERE to view my free masterclass on Success Strategies for Women in Leadership !

References:

Maxwell, J. (Host). (2024, April 17). Maxwell Leadership Podcast: High Road Leadership (Part 1) [Audio podcast episode]. In Maxwell Leadership Podcast. Maxwell Leadership.

The views shared in the Educational Leadership Moment are solely mine and do not reflect the positions of my employer or any entity within the local, state, or federal government sectors.