This Read Across America Day, let’s make a quick resolution: If you want to become a better leader, reading the right leadership books can make all the difference. The best leaders are lifelong learners, and books offer a powerful way to gain new insights, sharpen your strategy, and improve your communication. Whether you’re running a nonprofit, managing a small business, or leading a team, these five books have helped shape my career, and I know they will help you refine yours too.
1. Building a StoryBrand by Donald Miller
One of the biggest challenges for any organization is communicating its mission clearly. In Building a StoryBrand, Donald Miller teaches leaders how to craft a compelling narrative that positions their audience as the hero and their organization as the guide. If your nonprofit or small business struggles with messaging, this book will transform the way you connect with donors, customers, and stakeholders.
2. The One Thing by Gary Keller & Jay Papasan
Ever feel overwhelmed by a never-ending to-do list? The One Thing teaches leaders how to cut through the noise and focus on what matters most. By prioritizing the single most impactful task, you can eliminate distractions, increase efficiency, and drive meaningful results. This book made a significant impact on how I handle my daily tasks, and is essential for any leader looking to streamline their decision-making and maximize their time.
3. The Lazy Genius Way by Kendra Adachi
This is one of my favorite books that has a lot of personal application too. The Lazy Genius Way is about being lazy about the things you don’t care about and being a genius about the things you do care about. Kendra Adachi shares strategies for setting boundaries, creating effective routines, and focusing on what truly matters. This book is perfect for leaders who want to lead with intention while avoiding burnout.
4. The Flight of the Creative Class by Richard Florida
Innovation is the key to thriving communities and organizations. The Flight of the Creative Class explores how creative professionals drive economic development and what leaders can do to attract and retain top talent. If your nonprofit or business is involved in workforce development, community growth, or economic development, this book should be on your bookshelf (after you read it, of course).
5. You Don’t Have to Carry It All by Paula Faris
For leaders who are also balancing family responsibilities, You Don’t Have to Carry It All is a must-read. Paula Faris tackles the unrealistic expectations placed on working mothers and provides strategies for redefining work-life balance. If you’re a leader who struggles with juggling personal and professional responsibilities, this book will offer encouragement and practical solutions.
Why Leadership Books Matter
Reading leadership books isn’t just about self-improvement, but about leading with clarity, confidence, and impact. The insights you gain from these books can help you strengthen your team, improve communication, and make better strategic decisions. Leadership is a journey, and continuous learning is key to success.
Take Your Leadership to the Next Level
Want to go beyond reading and start applying these leadership principles in your organization? Let’s talk. Schedule a call today to discuss how leadership coaching can help you gain clarity, improve efficiency, and lead with greater impact.
About mkw+co
If you don’t read any further on the website, let me leave you with this: mkw+co is a boutique consulting firm specializing in strategic planning, executive coaching, marketing, and custom solutions for non-profits and small businesses.
