Leadership is a skill that can be learned and honed. Over the years, I’ve devoured countless books on the topic, each offering valuable insights and shaping my approach to guiding and inspiring others. Today, I want to share 3 leadership books that left an indelible mark on my journey:

1. Start With Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Simon Sinek

This book is a powerful exploration of what separates truly inspiring leaders from the rest. Sinek argues that great leaders start with “why”. They have a clear understanding of their purpose, core values, and the cause they believe in. This “why” becomes the foundation for everything they do, and it’s what resonates with and motivates those around them. Start With Why challenged me to define my own “why” as a leader and instilled the importance of purpose-driven leadership.

2. Emotional Intelligence 2.0 by Travis Bradberry and Jean Greaves

Leadership isn’t just about strategy and execution; it’s also about understanding and managing emotions – both your own and those of others. Emotional Intelligence 2.0 deep dives into the concept of emotional intelligence (EQ) and its critical role in leadership effectiveness. The book provides a framework for developing your EQ, including self-awareness, self-regulation, social awareness, and relationship management. By honing my EQ, I learned to be a more empathetic and effective leader who can connect with people on a deeper level.

3. The Leadership Pipeline: How to Think Like a Leader in a Crisis by Ram Charan, Stephen Drotter, and James Noel

Leadership is tested most during challenging times. The Leadership Pipeline offers a practical framework for developing leaders who can navigate crisis and lead effectively under pressure. The book emphasizes the importance of building a strong talent pipeline, identifying and nurturing leadership potential within your team. It also highlights the crucial role of coaching and mentoring in shaping future leaders. The Leadership Pipeline equipped me with the tools to identify and develop future leaders within my team, ensuring a strong leadership pipeline for the long term.

These are just a few of the many leadership books that have enriched my journey. The key takeaway? Never stop learning and growing as a leader. There’s always something new to discover, a new perspective to gain. By continuously seeking knowledge and refining your skills, you can become a more effective leader who inspires and empowers those around you.