I have always loved to read. For example, as a teenager, I went on holidays with my family for a week to sunny, picturesque Coffs Harbour – and spent almost the entire trip the time devouring the Lord of the Rings trilogy!
Those who know me know that I am very passionate about personal growth and development, and that reading is a key way in which I achieve this. What books have most impacted me? Which tomes do I read and re-read? Where do I go for wisdom, instruction, comfort, and inspiration?
Here is my list of ten books that you must read before you die:
1. Crucial Conversations
Tools for Talking When Stakes are High
I cannot think of a book that has impacted me more in my personal and professional life than this practical guide to having those tough conversations that no one wants to have.
2. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People
Stephen R. Covey’s masterpiece on the personal habits that make or break us is one of very books that I have read more than 3 times. It just never gets old!
3. to sell iS humAN
The Surprising Truth About Perusading, Convincing and Influencing Others
I don’t think any book that I have read has influenced the way that I understand and deal with people more than this work by Pink – I challenge you to remain the same after reading this!
4. THE BIBLE
What can I say? The best-selling book of all time, the Bible is a treasure trove of wisdom and inspiration that has delighted and instructed millions for centuries.
5. THE ALMANACK OF NAVAL RAVIKANT
A Guide to Wealth and Happiness
I only read this gem recently, and I plan to re-read it very soon, as it is chock full of life wisdom.
6. CALLING BULLSH*T
The Art of Scepticism in a Data-Driven World
The best book on critical, data-driven thinking that I have ever read.
7. HOW TO win FRIENDS AND INFLUENCE PEOPLE
The classic work on people skills is absolutely timeless – if you have not read it, you should!
8. ESSENTIALISM
The Disciplined Pursuit of Less
“Essentialism is a disciplined, systematic approach for determining where our highest point of contribution lies, then making execution of those things almost effortless.” Boom.
9. THE 21 IRREFUTABLE LAWS OF LEADERSHIP
I have read scores of books on leadership over the last 30 years, and this might very well be the best of them.
10. the brain that changes itself
Stories of personal triumph from the frontiers of brain science
This book has taught me a great deal about the incredible healing power of the brain, and has therefore given me hope when I needed it most.
A Most Unlikely Trailblazer 