Over the Christmas break, I was talking to a few people about the books I read and how much I believe in personal development / success-oriented books. I was asked about my favourites and the most influential ones, but was also asked an interesting question – “If I were one of your employees, which books would you recommend to me?“.
This was a great question and I thought about it briefly and came up with the following list – mainly around topics that don’t seem to get taught anywhere yet are so essential to a successful career.
Time Management and Goal Setting
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey – if you have to read one book on becoming a more organised and effective person, this is it.
Getting Things Done by David Allen – this books takes becoming organised to the next level – it requires a bit more discipline but will raise your game that much more again.
Eat That Frog! by Brian Tracy – this is a very easy read but has a powerful message.. if you want a “first step” book towards personal development, then perhaps this is it.
Success
Maximum Achievement by Brian Tracy – this is the best “getting your head straight” books that you can ever read. It is more or less an amalgam of many other books bringing the main concepts behind success together in one place. It will stick with you.
Awaken the Giant within by Anthony Robbins – this is a classic and has the power to transform your life. Read it once, then get the audio books and listen to them over and over.
The Psychology of Winning by Denis Waitley – an old book that you may need to get second hand these days – but no less relevant.
Seeds Of Greatness by Denis Waitley – perhaps this book should be required reading in UK schools? We need a moral compass and reset values. This book will deliver in a simple and straightforward message.
Finances
Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki – one of the best books for understanding personal finance that have found – at least in a simple, overview point of view. One of the points that still sticks with me is understanding that your house is not an “asset” (not while you have a mortgage at least).
The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey – this is a very relevant and topical book centred on becoming debt free. It is very US-centric – but like Rich Dad, Poor Dad the lessons are still valid to overseas readers.
The Millionaire Next Door by Thomas J. Stanley and William D. Danko – in a world where celebrity and bling, this books discusses the “true” millionaires. Those that live quietly, frugally, and unbeknownst to many – even there own neighbours.
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