Top Reads for 2025: 3 Books To Transform Your Thinking

As we step into 2025, I’ve been reflecting on the tools, strategies, and lessons that have fueled my growth as a founder and leader. This reflection always leads me back to one of my most transformative habits: reading.

The right book can change the way you see the world, approach challenges, and unlock new possibilities. So today, I’m sharing my top three recommendations—books that have shaped my thinking and, more importantly, how I’ve applied their lessons to my own journey.

1. Pattern Breakers by Mike Maples

?? What patterns are you ready to break in 2025?

Why this book matters: Mike Maples pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to build extraordinary companies—breaking away from conventional thinking to rewrite the rules entirely.

Why I love it: When I attended one of Mike’s sessions as part of a post-exit founders group, I left inspired and energized. His approach to challenging the status quo resonated deeply, especially as I continue building ventures that push industries forward. Pattern Breakers reminds me to think boldly and embrace ideas that others might dismiss as too unconventional.

How I’ve applied it: This book has shaped how I approach decision-making in my new venture. It’s helped me focus on creating systems and processes that don’t just solve problems but redefine what’s possible.

2. Founder Brand by Dave Gerhardt

?? How are you elevating your personal brand in 2025?

Why this book matters: Your personal brand as a founder can be a superpower. Dave Gerhardt demystifies how to position yourself authentically to inspire trust, attract the right opportunities, and build lasting relationships.

Why I love it: I’ve always believed that a founder’s energy sets the tone for their business, and this book reinforced that belief. As someone who values authenticity, Founder’s Brand offered practical tips for sharing my journey in a way that resonates with my audience.

How I’ve applied it: From my posts here on LinkedIn to how I connect with investors and mentors, this book has influenced how I show up as both a leader and a storyteller. It’s a must-read for anyone who wants to make their voice heard.

3. Mastery by Robert Greene

?? What will you commit to mastering this year?

Why this book matters: True mastery isn’t about quick wins—it’s about committing to a craft, understanding its nuances, and cultivating the patience to keep improving. Robert Greene’s deep dive into history’s most accomplished individuals offers timeless lessons for anyone on the path to greatness.

Why I love it: When I started my first company, Mastery became my north star. It reminded me that progress isn’t always visible in the moment but compounds over time. The stories Greene shares continue to inspire me to trust the process, even during challenging times.

How I’ve applied it: This book has helped me stay grounded during high-pressure situations, reminding me that every small step is part of a larger journey. It’s been invaluable in helping me maintain focus, even when the path forward isn’t clear.

Looking Ahead: Fuel Your Growth with Intentional Learning

Reading isn’t just about gaining knowledge—it’s about expanding your perspective, challenging your assumptions, and applying what you’ve learned to create real impact. These three books are perfect companions for the journey ahead, whether you’re building a business, leading a team, or reinventing yourself.

Three Action Steps for 2025

1?? Choose Your Focus: Pick one skill, habit, or area of growth to prioritize this year and commit to it.

2?? Expand Your Mindset: Dive into resources that challenge your thinking—whether it’s books, courses, or conversations with mentors.

3?? Lead with Clarity: Use what you learn to inspire and empower your team, creating an environment of growth and innovation.

Thank you for being part of my journey. As we navigate the opportunities and challenges of 2025, let’s commit to learning, growing, and inspiring one another.

What’s a book, resource, or lesson that’s shaped you recently? Drop a comment or message me—I’d love to hear your recommendations.

– Vlada

Sending you off with this thought...

The path to growth, as founders and leaders, isn’t just paved with bold strategies or big wins—it’s built on the foundation of continuous learning, the willingness to challenge our perspectives, and the courage to embrace what’s next.

This year, I’ve been reminded that the best tools for growth aren’t always the newest technologies or the flashiest tactics. Often, they’re the timeless lessons we glean from others—whether it’s through a book that reshapes our thinking, a mentor who challenges us, or a team member who inspires us to dig deeper.

As we step into 2025, let’s prioritize learning with intention. Let’s use the lessons we gather to lead with clarity, spark innovation, and create spaces for our teams to thrive.

If you’re ready to align your learning journey with your growth goals, let’s connect. Reach out on LinkedIn or schedule a Growth Session to explore how we can take your leadership and business to the next level.

Here’s to a year filled with new knowledge, transformative growth, and meaningful progress for yourself, your teams, and your mission.