What Books Do You Recommend?

Throughout my career, I've had the good fortune to be mentored by many incredible people. Some I know IRL and others from afar, like authors, athletes, coaches, and other high-performing people. At this point in my life, I'm focused on paying it forward while continuing my never-ending search for knowledge. This platform is a way for us to hivemind executive hacks, methods, learn from each other's mistakes, and use success as a muse. Join me in this quest to be a better person, executive, and mentor by subscribing and following on all platforms, @marobella.

The most asked question of me is... what book(s) do you recommend I read? I love this question. When asked, it demonstrates that a person is on a learning journey and has the humility to ask for advice on how to spend their time best. All manner of people ask me this question; some folks are just getting started in their careers, and some are making a pivot or comparing notes with other CEO's, C-Suite executives, and board members.

Harry S. Truman said, "Not all readers are leaders, but all leaders are readers." More importantly, my Grandfather gave me the advice when I was a young teen that anything can be learned from a book; all you have to do is apply yourself. I watched him with the huge Chilton's car repair book open on the hood of his car as he fixed any of the components on his own and this always inspired me to read to learn. I attempt to read 100 books a year in all formats. And, if I like a book, I'll buy in multiple formats to accelerate consumption: hardcover, audio and Kindle. Then, the rare books live on my nightstand for frequent reference and inspiration. I have notebooks where I take notes, have multiple colored highlighters for various take-away's. When reading a page or a chapter that hits me hard, I meditate on the content imagining it searing into my brain for future access.

Many of the authors I follow are like rockstars to me...distant mentors and they don't realize it... their life experiences, their stories, learning and perspectives have shaped who I am as a human, a Father, leader and friend. And as for all of us, when things aren't going well, or I've hit a rough patch, I have other authors I rely on for inspiration, guidance and advice, like Robin Sharma or Jerry Colona. In addition, their corresponding podcasts and social channels are great companions to their theories and advice. My favorite business author is Robert Greene with his protege' Ryan Holiday not far behind. I am also a fan of Ram Charan and Chris Voss. I find inspiration in biographies and auto-biographies of leaders, athletes and super-human people like Napoleon, Mark Messier and David Goggins. All of these people are called upon at different times and usage occasions.

Suppose I cannot get out of bed at 5 am for a workout. In that case, I hear Goggins' voice in my head telling me to get up, or if I am working on a team that is at a crossroads or so close to winning the big game, I hear Mess' voice, or when I need to be cooled down or need some spiritual advice, I hear the calm and soothing voice of Jerry Colona.

Here is my first round of reading recommendations:

• Anything by Robert Greene.. 48 Laws of Power, Mastery, 33 Strategies of War, The Art of Seduction and The Laws Of Nature. All of these books are on my nightstand and are I refer to at various times. I follow all of the unofficial social accounts that quote highlights from these books and consume them voraciously.
• Never Split The Difference, Chris Voss.. Excellent book on negotiation and selling that uses the cheat codes of a former FBI hostage negotiator. These tactics are so strategic, easy to use and familiar sense that I use them in multi-million dollar deals and/or with my family :)
• No One Wins Alone, Mark Messier with Jimmy Roberts.. One of the most outstanding sports leaders of all time and a friend. His book helped me bridge some hard moments in my life. Reading a book like this helps you realize that even the best do not have it easy. That hard work, having a great team and believing in yourself are keys to success.
• The Everyday Hero Manifesto, Robin Sharma.. This book has common sense perspectives on every aspect and angle of a person's life. It can be for people just starting or a grizzled veteran seeking guidance or a reminder of what is essential in life.
• Never Finished, David Goggins.. Admittedly his approach may only be for some. He takes an extreme POV on not suffering fools and certainly does not have space for excuses. He is a living example that anything can be overcome with the right mindset and preparation. There are only a few people on the planet I would like to meet and he is one of them.
• Anything by Ryan Holiday.. Ryan takes an approach based in the ancient philosophy of Stoicism. I tend to run hard and hot toward achieving goals and that passion can have a light and a shadow. Ryan smartly demonstrates the perspectives of Stoicism that you can only control what you can control and measure what is important. The theory of Memento More, one day you will die, has become a core tenet of my life, reminding me to live and appreciate every moment. His book?The Obstacle Is The Way?was critical for me over the last few years facing roadblocks and tribulations head-on. And, not to mention,?Ego Is The Enemy, or?Discipline Is Destiny?I call on at various moments of my week and month.

These books are just a sampling of my gospel collection. What books do you recommend and which books do you use as a reference guide rather than reading them once and putting them on a shelf. Share in the comments.

Thanks for reading and I wish you success, happiness and peace as you progress toward your personal and professional goals. Please subscribe to the newsletter and share if your network would benefit from an active hivemind.?