Unlocking Your Ultimate Potential: The 5 Best Books on Becoming a Great Leader

In today's fast-paced and outrageously competitive world, effective leadership and a strong understanding of business principles are essential for success. Whether you are a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned executive, investing time in self-improvement through reading can be a game-changer - as long as you’re reading the right stuff.

In this post, I share five must-read books on how to become a better leader (and person) that will broaden your perspective, inspire innovation, and help you unlock your true potential! 

1. “The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership: A New Paradigm for Sustainable Success” by Jim Dethmer, Diana Chapman, Kaley Klemp

This book changed my life, starting with the first chapter. It’s immensely impactful no matter your field and will guide you to being a highly successful, conscious Leader. What I like most about this resource is that it’s easier to get through than some other self-help books, has plenty of action items along with real-world results and examples. 

“All drama in leadership and life is caused by the need to be right. Letting go of that need is a radical shift all great leaders make.”

2. “The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz

You’ve probably heard of this book, though if you’re like me, maybe the first time you saw it was sitting on the shelf at your local yoga studio. When I finally got around to reading it, I realized what I had been missing out on, and I refer back to it at least once a year. It may take you a little longer to get through, even though its short, as the concepts will force you to really, truly, think. And feel. And then think again. 

I recommend this to most of my clients, especially those working in a corporate environment. The Four Agreements is a wonderful resource for learning how to navigate difficulty, discomfort, and discontent particularly with others and within ourselves. 

“It is always better to ask questions than to make an assumption, because assumptions set us up for suffering.”

3. “Nice Girls Don't Get the Corner Office: Unconscious Mistakes Women Make That Sabotage Their Careers” by Lois P. Frankel, PhD

I wish I had read this when I was in college. Frankel’s tips are spot-on for anyone working in corporate culture, not just women. As someone who has personally made most of these mistakes, I always encourage my clients to read this one! Note: of course I’ve seen men make some of these mistakes too, but I would encourage men interested in Leadership to read this one to understand the unique, cultural perspective of women in the workplace, even now.

“Mistake #82: Asking permission. Children, not adults, ask for approval. Be direct, be confident.”

4. "Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don't" by Simon Sinek

Simon Sinek's "Leaders Eat Last" delves into the biology and psychology behind effective leadership. This book is a captivating exploration of leadership principles that inspire loyalty, trust, and collaboration.

“Leaders are the ones willing to look out for those to the left of them and those to the right of them. Leaders are the ones who are willing to give up something of their own for us”

5. "7 Habits of Highly Effective People" by Stephen R. Covey

You’ve probably seen this book everywhere for years. Have you ever thought about picking it up? Surely it can’t be as great as everyone says it is, right?

Well, it is a #1 Best Seller and “The #1 Most Influential Business Book of the Twentieth Century” for a reason.

"The significant problems we face cannot be solved at the same level of thinking we were at when we created them."

In the ever-evolving landscape of business and leadership, continuous learning is crucial. These five books offer a wealth of knowledge and inspiration for aspiring leaders and established professionals alike. Most importantly though, they offer steps you can take Today.

By immersing yourself in the wisdom they offer, you will gain valuable insights, develop critical skills, and unlock your potential as a leader. Remember, true success lies not just in what you achieve, but in the impact you have on others and the legacy you leave behind.