Four Leadership Books to Read Right Now

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At this point in the pandemic, you’ve likely binged every television show on Netflix, completed that 1,000 piece jigsaw puzzle (twice), and maybe even baked sourdough bread. That’s why this week, I wanted to share a few of my favorite leadership books to consider digging into while curled up by a cozy fire.

Now more than ever, leaders are forced to make critical decisions. Here are four of my favorite books that can help guide you through the challenges you are facing right now, from wisdom on adaptability and empathy to how to address uncertainty with openness and optimism.

Leadology's Best Recommendations for Leadership Books for Your Learning and Development

Brené Brown's Dare to Lead Book, as recommended by Carrie Skowronski of Activate's Leadology

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1. Dare to Lead 

According to Brené Brown, great leadership is not about titles or the corner office, it’s about the willingness to put yourself out there and lean into courage. Brown writes about the importance of vulnerability as the heart of courageous leadership, compiling her most important findings into this ‘practical playbook’ filled with actionable tools for choosing courage over comfort.  

Radical Candor by Kim Scott, as recommended by Carrie Skowronski of Activate's Leadology

2. Radical Candor

Kim Scott explains that to be a great leader you need to care personally, to use criticism to build up rather than tear down, and to provide guidance to help others grow. Scott advocates that caring enough to have honest conversations with your team is what will help leaders withstand pressures over time, as well as bring harmony to your organization as a whole.

The Growth Mindset by Anne Brock and Heather Hundley, as recommended by Carrie Skowronski of Activate's Leadology

3. Growth Mindset

This book really changed my outlook on perseverance. It teaches readers to look for growth in all opportunities, and explains how mistakes can provide moments of motivation rather than hardship. Who doesn’t need a little extra dose of growth mindset right now? 

The Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay Stanier, as recommended by Carrie Skowronski of Activate's Leadology

4. The Coaching Habit

Author Michael Bungay Stanier expresses how “saying less and asking more” as a coach changes the trajectory of success. You don’t need to know everything as a leader, asking questions to clarify and to maintain honesty reveals a sense of vulnerability that relates well to the human experience.  Stanier shares 7 thoughtful questions that provide the framework for positive daily routines, all of which can help unlock your potential to become an impactful manager and team member.

Further learning and development opportunities for small business owners, leaders, and managers

In today’s business world, growth is the name of the game. Through Activate, I’ve coached many high-growth leaders to help them become fully equipped for their current and future leadership challenges. If you’re craving guidance on how to step up as a leader and further your managerial skillset, then fill out an application on our contact page for our free 30minute strategy call to assess you and your team's unique needs.

To amazing leadership stories! 

— Carrie and Team Leadology

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