Ten Must-Read Books on Creative Leadership

A creative leader can inspire and engage employees and stakeholders, develop innovative solutions to complex problems, and take the organization to success.

With that in mind, I curated ten books offering practical advice on becoming a better creative leader while preserving your humanity. Do you have any you would add to this list? Let me know in the comments below, and I'll add them when I publish the next ten!

Drive by? Daniel Pink :

This ridiculously bestselling book delves deep into the psychology of motivation and performance management, providing critical insights into how modern businesses should be structured for optimal results. Pink argues that people are motivated by money, rewards, autonomy, mastery, and purpose—the three essential elements for successful leaders.

The Five Dysfunctions of A Team by Patrick Lencioni :

Lencioni offers practical solutions to building high-performing teams through leadership based on trust, conflict, and commitment in this classic bestseller. He outlines five core issues that must be addressed to create strong, cohesive teams that can reach their goals. If you haven't read it and lead teams or plan to in the future, do yourself a favor and get it now!

Start with Why by Simon Sinek :

Have you yet to read this book? Where have you been? This groundbreaking book provides insight into the power of purpose-driven leadership and encourages readers to find their own "WHY" to become better leaders. Sinek explains how understanding why you do what you do can significantly impact your team's and the organization's success.

Radical Candor by Kim Scott :

The book dives into why certain managerial behaviors may come across as unfavorable, even if the underlying intention is positive, and outlines ways to provide constructive feedback without sacrificing empathy for those under your leadership. Full of fun illustrations coupled with necessary advice & anecdotes, Radical Candor should be on your reading list.

Mindset: The New Psychology Of Success by Carol Dweck:

If you're a human being, you should read this book. Full stop. With compelling insights and stories, Dr. Dweck explains how our mindset affects our lives and how a growth mindset can lead us to more extraordinary achievement and satisfaction. This bestselling book will help you take control of your future and achieve success in every area of your life. I cannot recommend it enough!

Grit by Angela Duckworth :

Grit helps us stay motivated toward our goals despite obstacles that may arise. Drawing from her experience and stories from famous business owners, athletes, and soldiers, Duckworth offers compelling evidence for why passion, determination, and resilience are critical ingredients for success—a fantastic read.

Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin :

One complaint I hear the most from leaders is that they want more accountability from their teams. Drawing on their experiences in active duty, the authors provide valuable insights into the power of disciplined yet creative strategies that can be implemented in any environment. "Leadership is not rank, position, or authority. It is action and example."

The Culture Code: The Secrets of Highly Successful Groups by Daniel Coyle.

Through interviews with world-renowned experts and fascinating stories from businesses and teams of all sizes, Coyle outlines the essential ingredients for creating and sustaining an inclusive and productive culture in any enviroWhether you're in business or improving your team for a team better; this book is an excellent roadmap for creating high-functioning teams that thrive.

How Women Rise: Break the 12 Habits Holding You Back from Your Next Raise, Promotion, or Job by Sally Helgesen and Marshall Goldsmith :

You don't need to be a woman to take fantastic advice away from the book. If you are a man who works with or manages high-performing women, this is a must-read for you! Focusing on the unique experience of women in management positions, this book provides actionable advice on succeeding in a male-dominated work environment while respecting individual differences and cultivating self-confidence. "If you want to rise, you must recognize the roadblocks that keep you in place."

Creativity Inc.: Overcoming the Unseen Forces That Stand in the Way of True Inspiration?by Ed Catmull:

This essential read takes its readers behind the scenes at Pixar Animation Studios. Catmull provides fascinating case studies, real-world examples, and actionable steps leaders can take to make their organizations more creative and effective. This book will help you discover how successful teams work, allowing your team to reach its full potential. It provides them with practical advice on fostering creativity among individuals, teams, and organizations.

There you have it—ten must-read books on creative leadership. Do you have any to add? Let me know in the comments below, and thanks for reading!

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