Our top 100 books for fueling your mind, growing your soul, and leading with courage.
I’m often teased (lovingly, I think!) about my giant bookcase behind my camera. Clients will say, “Are all those books on your bookcase behind you real?!” I ask them what book they might be drawn to. When they answer, I pull it off the shelf and share a learning from it. It creates incredibly informative and provocative conversations. My beloved bookcase is a catalyst to the pursuit of courage and knowledge, together.
My giant bookcase is so iconic that one time I showed up to a virtual all-hands meeting, and the entire team pranked me by using an image of it as their own Zoom background.
Words matter
There’s a nursery rhyme about words: Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.
I disagree fully with this. Words can cause immense damage–conflict, misunderstanding, hard feelings, estrangements, and even war. A mean comment can take longer to recover from than a black eye.
Words can also do enormous good.
Anyone who has listened to Nelson Mandela’s speech after his release (I was lucky enough to be in the audience as a college student that day), heard Brené Brown’s talk on vulnerability or been on the receiving end of a heartfelt apology, or declaration of love, understands how words can make or break momentum, self-esteem, and courage.
My reading journey
Learning from academics, scientists, leaders, and real stories of resilience and growth is a drug for me. I’ve always loved going to books to expand my mind. When I have time to read, I love turning physical pages, and when I’m on the go, I play an audio version or go to an app to get the highlights of a book (like Blinkist).
As a child growing up in South Africa, my parents raised me amid books that provoked my imagination, courage, and curiosity. I read stories that made me realize my inner strength and uniqueness and taught me that I had more power in me than I could comprehend. Some of the first books that helped shape me were: Where the Wild Things Are, by Maurice Sendak, James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl, Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame, Winnie the Pooh by A.A. Milne, Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll, and the Asterix comic book series by René Goscinny and Albert Uderzo. These are all self-discovery stories that have been embedded in my mind from my childhood.
As I got older, books like The Alchemist by Paulo Cohelo and Outwitting the Devil by Napoleon Hill became heavily creased and dog-eared.
I’ve been asked often to compile a list of the most influential books I’ve read.
Here are my top picks to inspire your courage, help you explore groundbreaking ideas, and provide tools for the most fulfilling, balanced life possible.
Courage
Courage: The Joy of Living Dangerously by Osho
Osho redefines courage as embracing the unknown and living authentically. This book inspires me to let courage overtake fear and live fully in the present.
Profiles in Courage by John F. Kennedy
This Pulitzer Prize-winning classic celebrates acts of bravery and integrity in American history, offering a timeless lesson on standing by your values. [Book link.]
Fear: Essential Wisdom for Getting Through the Storm by Thich Nhat Hanh
A gentle guide to understanding and transforming fear through mindfulness; a must-read for those seeking inner peace.
Mindset and Thinking
The Science of Mind by Ernest Holmes
Ernest Holmes, founder of the Religious Science movement, explores the principles of metaphysics and the power of positive thinking, offering readers a pathway to spiritual awakening.
[Book Link.]
The Molecule of More: How a Single Chemical in Your Brain Drives Love, Sex, and Creativity—and Will Determine the Fate of the Human Race by Daniel Z. Lieberman, M.D., and Michael E. Long
A professor of psychiatry at George Washington University and a trained physicist examine how dopamine influences our desires and behaviors, providing a deeper understanding of human motivation and the pursuit of happiness.
[Book link.]
What Would You Do If You Weren’t Afraid?: Discover a Life Filled with Purpose and Joy Through the Secrets of Jewish Wisdom by Michal Oshman
Drawing on Jewish wisdom, Oshman helps readers overcome fear and self-doubt, leading to a more purposeful and joyful life.
[Book link.]
Can’t Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds by David Goggins
This memoir chronicles how the author grew from a difficult childhood to a U.S. Navy SEAL, offering lessons on mental toughness and self-discipline.
[Book link.]
Limitless: Upgrade Your Brain, Learn Anything Faster, and Unlock Your Exceptional Life by Jim Kwik
Brain coach Kwik provides techniques to enhance brain performance, improve memory, and accelerate learning for personal and professional growth.
Be Your Future Self Now: The Science of Intentional Transformation by Dr. Benjamin Hardy
Organizational psychologist Hardy explores the concept of becoming one’s ideal future self, offering strategies for aligning daily actions with long-term goals.
Brain Rules: 12 Principles for Surviving and Thriving at Work, Home, and School by John Medina
A developmental molecular biologist outlines 12 principles of brain function, providing insights to improve productivity and learning.
Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman
Nobel laureate in economics and pioneer in behavioral economics, Kahneman delves into the dual systems of thought—intuitive and deliberate—shaping our judgments and decisions.
Outwitting the Devil: The Secret to Freedom and Success by Napoleon Hill
One of my favorites of all time! I come back to this book again and again. This thought-provoking book presents a fictional interview with the Devil, revealing strategies to overcome obstacles to success.
Believe It: How to Go from Underestimated to Unstoppable by Jamie Kern Lima
This inspiring memoir recounts Jamie Kern Lima’s journey from rejection to building a billion-dollar cosmetics company (IT Cosmetics), offering lessons in perseverance and self-belief.
Becoming Supernatural: How Common People Are Doing the Uncommon by Dr. Joe Dispenza
Science and spirituality combine to teach readers how to transcend limitations and create a new reality, from neuroscientist Dr. Joe Dispenza.
Map of Consciousness Explained: A Proven Energy Scale to Actualize Your Ultimate Potential by David R. Hawkins, M.D., Ph.D.
Psychiatrist Hawkins presents a scale of consciousness levels, guiding readers toward higher awareness and fulfillment.
[Book link.]
Leadership
BRAG: The Art of Tooting Your Own Horn Without Blowing It by Peggy Klaus
It’s hard for many people to tout themselves. This book empowers readers to authentically showcase their value. Learn how to share your gifts and what you’ve worked hard to learn, without being cocky and off-putting to others.
[Book link.]
A Testament of Hope: The Essential Writings and Speeches by Martin Luther King
A powerful collection of Dr. King’s writings and speeches that inspire me to lead with moral courage.
The Lion Tracker’s Guide to Life by Boyd Varty
I’ll never forget the quote at the beginning of this book: “I don’t know where I’m going, but I know exactly how to get there.” As a native of South Africa, I know that cats are the most elusive animal. You’ll never be right if you try to guess where they’re going. This book taught me the importance of seeing the signs right before me, versus being tunnel-vision fixated on the results.
One of the best compliments Be Courageous gets as a company from our clients is how flexible and adaptable we are. We set out with a plan to “find the lion,” but if we see a different way to get to a breakthrough when we’re in the moment, we pivot to that path easily. [Book link.]
48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene
Understanding the subtle dynamics of what “power” means and how people wield it can help you navigate complex relationships and achieve goals effectively. By the author of, “The Art of Seduction.”
The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom by Don Miguel Ruiz
Ruiz provides a roadmap for personal transformation, encouraging breaking old patterns and living with integrity, freedom, and love.
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck: A Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good Life by Mark Mason
This bold take on how to prioritize will challenge you to focus on what truly matters, cultivating the courage to accept discomfort for growth. Life and growth can be hard, and, just like triathlon training makes your muscles sore, that is normal!
The Leadership Handbook: 26 Critical Lessons Every Leader Needs by John C. Maxwell
Author of 100 books, Maxwell’s actionable principles equip leaders with the ability to influence, inspire, and serve others effectively.
The Brower Quadrant by Lee Brower
Entrepreneur, coach, and founder of Empowered Wealth redefines success by focusing on gratitude, values, and legacy, encouraging courageous leadership rooted in purpose.
When Professionals Have to Lead: A New Model for High Performance by Thomas J. DeLong , John J. Gabarro, Robert J. Lees
A practical guide for leaders, this book highlights the courage required to navigate complex dynamics and foster collaboration in professional environments.
The Leadership Dojo: Build Your Foundation as an Exemplary Leader by Richard Strozzi-Heckler
Strozzi-Heckler, a pioneer in somatic coaching, blends leadership and mindfulness to show that embodying courage requires physical, emotional, and mental alignment.
The Art of Being Unreasonable: Lessons in Unconventional Thinking by Eli Broad
Co-founder of KB Home, Eli Broad shows how embracing unconventional ideas and taking bold, unreasonable actions is the foundation of courageous innovation and success.
Principles: Life and Work by Ray Dalio
Ray Dalio, one of the world’s most successful investors and entrepreneurs, distills a lifetime of insights into actionable principles, teaching us the courage to approach challenges with radical transparency and adaptability.
Grit: Power of Passion and Perseverance by Angela Duckworth
Angela Duckworth, a celebrated researcher and professor, shows us that it is not “genius” that is a requirement of success, but a combination of passion and long-term perseverance.
Tools Of Titans: The Tactics, Routines, and Habits of Billionaires, Icons, and World-Class Performers by Timothy Ferriss
Host of “The Tim Ferriss Show,” one of the most popular business podcasts globally, Ferriss curates wisdom from high-achievers across fields, providing practical strategies and the courage to take action toward extraordinary results. [Book link.]
The Daily Stoic: 366 Meditations on Wisdom, Perseverance, and the Art of Living by Ryan Holiday and Stephen Hanselman
A marketing strategist expert and philosophy scholar team up to provide daily meditations on Stoic philosophy to inspire inner peace, resilience, and clarity in a chaotic world. [Book link.]
Culture and Organizations
Spiral Dynamics: Mastering Values, Leadership and Change by Prof. Don Edward Beck and Christopher C. Cowan
Sociologist Don Edward Beck and co-founder of Spiral Dynamics, Christopher C. Cowan describe a framework that shows how to navigate complex human systems and evolve as leaders in a rapidly changing world.
Dopamine Nation: Finding Balance in the Age of Indulgence by Dr. Anna Lembke
Lembke, a professor of psychiatry at Stanford University, explores our relationship with pleasure and pain, inspiring the courage to find balance and reclaim control in a dopamine-driven culture.
Reinventing Organizations: A Guide to Creating Organizations Inspired by the Next Stage in Human Consciousness by Frederic Laloux
Learn how to courageously reimagine workplaces as purpose-driven, self-managed, and highly conscious environments.
The Origin of Species by Charles Darwin
Darwin’s masterpiece, in its 150th year, invites us to embrace the courage of adaptability, showing that survival and success belong to those who evolve.
Good for Business: The Rise of the Conscious Corporation by Ann O’Reilly, Greg Welch, Andrew Benett, and Cavas Gobhai
Proof that businesses can thrive by leading with purpose and courageously committing to social and environmental impact.
Outliers: The Story of Success by Malcolm Gladwell
Gladwell’s fascinating look at success stories teaches us to harness the courage to seize opportunities and create our own paths.
The Flight of the Creative Class: The New Global Competition for Talent by Richard Florida
Florida, a bestselling economist, highlights the importance of creativity and diversity, encouraging the courage to foster environments where innovation thrives.
Work Rules!: Insights from Inside Google That Will Transform How You Live and Lead by Laszlo Bock
Bock’s insider perspective as head of Google’s innovative People Operations at Google inspires leaders to challenge traditional management and put people first.
Exponential Organizations 2.0: The New Playbook for 10x Growth and Impact by Salim Ismail, Peter H. Diamandis, and Michael S. Malone
Founding executive director of Singularity University, Peter H. Diamandis, a pioneer in innovation and founder of XPRIZE, and Michael S. Malone, an acclaimed technology journalist, combine their expertise in this book that pushes us to think big, leveraging technology and innovation to create organizations that defy limits.
Coaching
High Performance Habits: How Extraordinary People Become That Way by Brendon Burchard
Burchard, a leading high-performance coach, motivational speaker, and best-selling author, identifies the habits that lead to sustained success and fulfillment, inspiring the courage to implement intentional changes for a high-impact life.
Trillion Dollar Coach: The Leadership Playbook of Silicon Valley’s Bill Campbell by Eric Schmidt, Jonathan Rosenberg, Alan Eagle
Based on over 80 interviews with the great Bill Campbell, this book helps leaders create high-performing teams and companies, all the while putting people first. [Book link.]
One Decision: The First Step to a Better Life by Mike Bayer
Bayer, founder and CEO of CAST Centers, a prominent mental health and addiction treatment center in Los Angeles, offers this empowering guide showing how making a single, intentional decision can transform your life, encouraging the courage to take decisive action.
Wikinomics: How Mass Collaboration Changes Everything by Don Tapscott and Anthony D. Williams
This book by the CEO and Vice President of the Tapscott Group examines how mass collaboration is transforming business models and driving innovation, giving insights into leveraging collective intelligence for competitive advantage.
Creativity and Innovation
The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin
In the overwhelming flood of business books that all focus on processes to achieve a goal, the legendary music producer and co-founder of Def Jam Recordings writes about how people have squashed their creative voice long enough and how important it is to trust your innate, unique creativity. Even if it goes against the grain.
Synectics: The Development of Creative Capacity by William J.J. Gordon
This book explores the power of collaborative creativity, emphasizing how unconventional connections and diverse team dynamics spark innovative breakthroughs, critical for courageously tackling complex problems.
Creativity, Inc.: Overcoming the Unseen Forces That Stand in the Way of True Inspiration by Ed Catmull, and Amy Wallace
A behind-the-scenes look at Pixar by its co-founder, this book teaches leaders how to foster a safe space for creativity and vulnerability, proving that true innovation flourishes in environments of trust and fearless collaboration.
X-Teams: How to Build Teams That Lead, Innovate, and Succeed by Deborah Ancona and Henrik Bresman
This book by Ancona, a professor at MIT Sloan, and Bresman, a leadership expert and researcher, shows how external-facing, flexible teams achieve superior innovation by breaking silos and building connections beyond organizational boundaries.
Idea to Execution: How to Optimize, Automate, and Outsource Everything in Your Business by Ari Meisel and Nick Sonnenberg
Chronicling their first year in business (after setting up their virtual assistant business in just one day), this practical guide to turning ideas into action highlights the courage needed to adopt systems and processes that streamline creativity and productivity.
Marketing
Purple Cow: Transform Your Business by Being Remarkable by Seth Godin
Marketing expert Seth Godin emphasizes the importance of creating remarkable products that stand out in a crowded marketplace and offers actionable strategies for differentiating one’s offerings to achieve business success.
So What? How to Communicate What Really Matters to Your Audience by Mark Magnacca
Mark Magnacca, business coach and sales expert, teaches professionals how to communicate their value effectively by addressing the “So What?” factor, enhancing communication skills, and enabling clearer articulation of benefits to clients and stakeholders.
[Book link.]
Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking by Malcolm Gladwell
Gladwell explores the power of snap judgments and first impressions in decision-making, offering a deeper understanding of intuitive thinking and its impact on choices.
Pull: Marketing Secrets The Fortune 100 Use by Keith Chambers
Marketer Keith Chambers reveals marketing secrets used by Fortune 100 companies to attract customers, giving practical techniques for creating compelling marketing campaigns.
This Is Marketing: You Can’t Be Seen Until You Learn to See by Seth Godin
A fresh perspective on marketing, focusing on building trust and creating change, encouraging ethical marketing practices that resonate with audiences.
Strategy
Playing to Win: How Strategy Really Works by A.G. Lafley and Roger L. Martin
With the wisdom of former P&G CEO A.G. Lafley and strategy expert Roger Martin, this book simplifies complex strategy into actionable steps for creating a competitive edge—an empowering guide for leaders who dare to dream big.
Antifragile: Things That Gain from Disorder by Nassim Nicholas Taleb
Taleb, renowned scholar, statistician, risk analyst, and author, celebrated for his expertise in probability, uncertainty, and complex systems boldly argues that life’s chaos doesn’t just test us—it can make us stronger if we embrace it, making this book a game-changer for anyone who wants to thrive in a volatile world.
Vivid Vision: A Remarkable Tool for Aligning Your Business Around a Shared Vision of the Future by Cameron Herold
Cameron Herold, former Chief Operating Officer of 1-800-GOT-JUNK?, where he led the company’s growth from $2 million to $106 million in revenue within six years, inspires leaders to craft and share bold visions that unite teams and propel businesses forward—an essential read for the courage to think and communicate big.
The Fourth Turning: An American Prophecy by William Strauss and Neil Howe
Strauss, historian, playwright, and author with degrees from Harvard College and Harvard Law School, and Howe, an economist, demographer, and historian, holding degrees from Yale University and a Master’s from Harvard Kennedy School created this provocative book exploring generational cycles and their impact on society, challenging us to navigate crises with courage and emerge stronger in every “turning.”
The Purpose Economy: How Your Desire for Impact, Personal Growth and Community Is Changing the World by Aaron Hurst
Aaron Hurst (a Humanitarian Award winner from the University of Michigan), shows us how businesses can thrive by embracing purpose over profit, offering an inspiring framework for creating meaningful work and lives.
Delivering Happiness: A Path to Profits, Passion, and Purpose by Tony Hsieh
Tony Hsieh, Zappos’ visionary CEO, shares how building a business around happiness—not just for customers but for employees—can create extraordinary success and fulfillment.
Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel H. Pink
Daniel Pink reveals the three keys to true motivation—autonomy, mastery, and purpose—giving readers a powerful guide to unlocking their potential and inspiring others. Fun fact about Pink, among many other academic accomplishments, he was a speechwriter for Vice President Al Gore.
Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap and Others Don’t by Jim Collins
Jim Collins, (who received a Distinguished Teaching Award from the Stanford Graduate School of Business and later founded a management research lab) offers a deep dive into what separates great companies from good ones, equipping leaders with timeless strategies for achieving excellence.
Productivity
The One Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth Behind Extraordinary Results by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan
This book teaches you how focusing on one priority can drive extraordinary success, offering readers a clear method to cut through distractions and achieve meaningful goals. Keller, a real estate magnate, and Papasan, a bestselling author, deliver practical advice for anyone looking to simplify and excel.
The 4-Hour Workweek: Escape 9-5, Live Anywhere, and Join the New Rich by Timothy Ferriss
Tim Ferriss revolutionizes productivity by showing readers how to automate their income, redefine success, and live life on their own terms with bold, actionable strategies. A serial entrepreneur and bestselling author, Ferriss has inspired millions to rethink work and life balance.
Company of One: Why Staying Small Is the Next Big Thing for Business by Paul Jarvis
Paul Jarvis challenges the growth-at-all-costs mentality, encouraging entrepreneurs to embrace sustainable, intentional small businesses that prioritize freedom over scale. A sought-after consultant, Jarvis provides a fresh perspective for building meaningful success.
Come Up for Air: How Teams Can Leverage Systems and Tools to Stop Drowning in Work by Nick Sonnenberg
Nick Sonnenberg provides leaders with practical strategies to streamline workflows, reduce overwhelm, and boost team productivity through smarter tools and systems. A serial entrepreneur and efficiency expert, Sonnenberg empowers organizations to reclaim their time and focus.
Business
The Bezos Letters: 14 Principles to Grow Your Business Like Amazon by Steve Anderson and Karen Anderson
This book breaks down the principles and strategies that built Amazon into a global powerhouse, giving readers actionable insights into risk-taking, innovation, and scaling their businesses. Steve Anderson, an expert in risk management, and Karen Anderson, his co-author, and wife, deliver a masterclass in business growth through the lens of Jeff Bezos’ letters to shareholders.
Skin in the Game: Hidden Asymmetries in Daily Life by Nassim Nicholas Taleb
Taleb challenges readers to embrace accountability and understand the risks they take in business and life, arguing that having “skin in the game” is essential for integrity and effective decision-making. A renowned statistician, philosopher, and author of The Black Swan, Taleb blends sharp wit with thought-provoking ideas in this groundbreaking work.
The Fourth Industrial Revolution by Klaus Schwab
Klaus Schwab, founder of the World Economic Forum, explores the transformative impact of emerging technologies on society, business, and humanity, offering a visionary roadmap for navigating this unprecedented era of change. This book provides invaluable insights into how leaders can adapt and innovate in the face of AI, automation, and digital disruption.
Technology
Bold: How to Go Big, Create Wealth and Impact the World by Peter H. Diamandis and Steven Kotler
Peter H. Diamandis, named one of “The World’s 50 Greatest Leaders” by Fortune magazine, offers this radical how-to guide for harnessing exponential technologies, moonshot thinking, and crowd-powered tools to create extraordinary wealth and impact.
Leading from the Emerging Future: From Ego-System to Eco-System Economies by Otto Scharmer and Katrin Kaufer
This insightful guide from Senior Lecturer at MIT and Founding Chair of the Presencing Institute presents proven practices for building a new economy that is more resilient, intentional, inclusive, and aware.
Platform Revolution: How Networked Markets Are Transforming the Economy—and How to Make Them Work for You by Geoffrey G. Parker, Marshall W. Van Alstyne, and Sangeet Paul Choudary
This authoritative guide by a professor of engineering at Dartmouth College demystifies the role of online platforms, explaining what they are, how they work, and their implications for business and economics.
Spirituality
The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying by Sogyal Rinpoche
This spiritual classic interweaves Tibetan Buddhist teachings to guide readers on embracing life and understanding death, offering profound insights into meditation, compassion, and the impermanence of existence. Sogyal Rinpoche, a renowned Tibetan lama, dedicated his life to bridging Eastern wisdom with Western minds.
How to Clear the Negative Ego by Dr. Joshua David Stone
This guide focuses on identifying and dissolving the negative ego, empowering readers with practical tools to harmonize their emotions, align with their higher self, and create a spiritually grounded life, by a renowned spiritual teacher and transpersonal psychologist known for his extensive contributions to spiritual psychology.
The Awakened Soul by Kahlil Gibran
A collection of Gibran’s writings that explores themes of love, beauty, and the human spirit, inspiring readers to awaken their inner selves. Kahlil Gibran, a Lebanese-American poet and philosopher, is best known for his work “The Prophet,” which has touched millions worldwide. [Book link.]
The Heart of the World: A Journey to Tibet’s Lost Paradise by Ian Baker
This adventure chronicles Baker’s expedition to the Tsangpo Gorge in Tibet, blending exploration with spiritual insights into one of the world’s most remote regions. Ian Baker is a Himalayan and Buddhist scholar whose explorations have been featured in National Geographic.
Man’s Search For Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl
A profound memoir and psychological exploration where Frankl discusses finding purpose amidst suffering, drawing from his experiences in Nazi concentration camps. Viktor E. Frankl was an Austrian neurologist, psychiatrist, and Holocaust survivor, renowned for developing logotherapy.
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
This allegorical novel follows Santiago, a shepherd boy, on his journey to discover a hidden treasure, teaching readers about following one’s dreams and the interconnectedness of all things. Paulo Coelho, a Brazilian author, has inspired millions with his philosophical and spiritual storytelling.
Impact
Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet by Thich Nhat Hanh
This profound guide intertwines Zen Buddhist teachings with environmental activism, encouraging readers to cultivate mindfulness and compassion as a means to foster personal transformation and address global ecological challenges. Thich Nhat Hanh (1926–2022) was a Vietnamese Buddhist Zen master, poet, and peace activist, renowned for his teachings on mindfulness and his pivotal role in promoting peace during the Vietnam War. [Book link.]
The Heart of Business: Leadership Principles for the Next Era of Capitalism by Hubert Joly with Caroline Lambert
A human-centered approach to leadership and business transformation, emphasizing purpose and care for people as the foundation for extraordinary outcomes. Hubert Joly, former CEO of Best Buy, is recognized for leading the company’s remarkable turnaround by focusing on employee engagement and customer satisfaction. [Book link.]
The Future of the Responsible Company: What We’ve Learned from Patagonia’s First 50 Years by Yvon Chouinard and Vincent Stanley
Patagonia’s five decades of responsible business practices, offer practical advice for companies aiming to prioritize social and environmental impact alongside profitability. Yvon Chouinard, founder of Patagonia, and Vincent Stanley, the company’s Director of Philosophy, share their extensive experience in integrating sustainability into business operations.
Psychology
Loving What Is: Four Questions That Can Change Your Life by Byron Katie
This book introduces “The Work,” a method of self-inquiry consisting of four questions designed to challenge and transform negative beliefs, leading readers toward inner peace and acceptance. Byron Katie, an American speaker and author, experienced a profound personal transformation in 1986 and has since dedicated her life to teaching others how to achieve freedom from suffering through self-inquiry.
Positive Evolutionary Psychology: Darwin’s Guide to Living a Richer Life by Glenn Geher and Nicole Wedberg
Dr. Geher’s groundbreaking work bridges evolutionary psychology and positive psychology for the first time, providing an understanding of how our evolutionary past can inform practices that enhance well-being and fulfillment. Dr. Glenn Geher is a professor of psychology and founding director of the Evolutionary Studies program at the State University of New York at New Paltz. [Book link.]
The Dark Side of the Light Chasers: Reclaiming Your Power, Creativity, Brilliance, and Dreams by Debbie Ford
Learn how to confront and embrace their shadow selves—the hidden aspects of their personalities—to unlock greater creativity, energy, and authenticity. Debbie Ford was an internationally recognized expert in personal transformation and the bestselling author of multiple books on emotional healing and self-realization.
Personality Isn’t Permanent: Break Free from Self-Limiting Beliefs and Rewrite Your Story by Dr. Benjamin Hardy
Challenging the notion of a fixed personality, this read offers science-backed strategies to help you overcome self-limiting beliefs and intentionally craft your desired identity. Dr. Benjamin Hardy was an organizational psychologist and bestselling author known for his writings on personal development and transformational psychology.
The Power of Regret: How Looking Backward Moves Us Forward by Daniel H. Pink
Pink examines the universal emotion of regret, revealing how understanding and embracing our regrets can lead to better decision-making and a more meaningful life.
[Book link.]
Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari
This sweeping narrative chronicles the history of Homo sapiens, exploring how biology and history have shaped our societies, cultures, and individual lives. Yuval Noah Harari is a historian and professor at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, acclaimed for his works on broad historical processes and their impact on human civilization.
Thrive: The Third Metric to Redefining Success and Creating a Life of Well-Being, Wisdom, and Wonder by Arianna Huffington
This inspiring book advocates for redefining success beyond money and power, emphasizing the importance of well-being, wisdom, and wonder in leading a fulfilling life. Arianna Huffington is the co-founder of The Huffington Post and a prominent author and speaker on topics related to wellness, productivity, and the redefining of success.
Health, Wellbeing, and Longevity
Life Force: How New Breakthroughs in Precision Medicine Can Transform the Quality of Your Life & Those You Love by Tony Robbins, Dr. Peter H. Diamandis, and Dr. Robert Hariri
Tony Robbins, a world-renowned motivational speaker and strategist, Dr. Peter H. Diamandis, a leader in innovation and founder of the XPRIZE Foundation, and Dr. Robert Hariri, surgeon and biomedical scientist specializing in cellular therapies present this book with cutting-edge advancements in precision medicine, offering readers actionable strategies to enhance vitality and longevity. [Book link.]
The Omnivore’s Dilemma: A Natural History of Four Meals by Michael Pollan
Discover how food choices impact our health, environment, and ethics, written by a professor at UC Berkeley’s Graduate School of Journalism, whose expertise lies in examining the intersections of nature, culture, and the food systems that sustain us.
Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams by Dr. Matthew Walker
Dr. Matthew Walker is a neuroscientist and professor of psychology at the University of California, Berkeley, specializing in sleep research, and his compelling work delves into the vital role of sleep in overall health, offering practical advice to improve sleep quality and, consequently, life quality.
Burnout to Balance: 5 Ways to Overcome Stress and Improve Your Well-Being at Work by Jenna Hermans
Jenna Hermans, certified high-performance coach, human resources expert and co-founder and COO of Be Courageous shares her practical strategies to help people navigate workplace stress and achieve a harmonious balance between professional responsibilities and personal well-being.
Finance, Selling, and Investing
Secrets of Power Negotiating: Inside Secrets from a Master Negotiator by Roger Dawson
Roger Dawson, a distinguished negotiation expert and speaker, unveils effective negotiation tactics and strategies, enabling readers to navigate complex negotiations with confidence and success.
Value-Based Fees: How to Charge What You’re Worth and Get What You Charge by Alan Weiss
Alan Weiss, who holds a Ph.D. in Psychology and is the founder of Summit Consulting Group, Inc. guides consultants on setting fees based on the value delivered to clients, fostering more profitable and client-centric engagements.
The Black Swan: The Impact of the Highly Improbable by Nassim Nicholas Taleb
This thought-provoking work by this scholar, former trader, and essayist explores the profound impact of rare and unpredictable events, challenging readers to rethink their understanding of risk and uncertainty.
Persuasion: The Art of Influencing People by James Borg
This practical guide by James Borg, author, business consultant, and communications expert, delves into the psychology of persuasion, offering techniques to effectively influence others in personal and professional settings.
[Book link.]
The New Paradigm for Financial Markets: The Credit Crisis of 2008 and What It Means by George Soros
Financier, philanthropist, and author George Soros examines the 2008 financial crisis, presenting a new framework for understanding financial markets and their inherent instabilities. [Book link.]
Family, Parenting, and Relationships
Chaos to Calm: 5 Ways Busy Parents Can Break Free from Overwhelm by Jenna Hermans
Jenna Hermans, certified high-performance coach, co-founder and COO of Be Courageous, as well as my bada** wife and mom of our four kids, shares five “pillars of calm” with actionable strategies in this award-winning book on how she keeps our family and business running like a well-oiled machine. And she doesn’t lose sleep do it!. [Book link.]
Healing Ancestral Patterns: Transforming the Transgenerational Trauma by David Furlong
David Furlong is a therapist, author, and leading practitioner in the field of spiritual healing and ancestral therapy, with over 40 years of experience. In this book you’ll learn methods to identify and heal inherited family traumas, enabling you to break free from limiting ancestral patterns.
The Five Love Languages: How to Express Heartfelt Commitment to Your Mate by Gary Chapman, Ph.D.
This classic guide from a renowned marriage counselor, speaker, and best-selling author, reveals five distinct ways individuals express and receive love, offering insights to enhance communication and strengthen relationships. If you don’t know your partner’s love language, it’s time to find out! It makes a world of difference in communication and fostering closeness.
[Book link.]
These books have been gateways for myself and many others to choose courage over fear. Whether you’re seeking personal breakthroughs or professional success, these titles offer insights and tools to navigate the year ahead with boldness, purpose, less stress, higher performance, and more fulfillment.
Reach out for guidance on any of the above topics or a custom program for yourself, your team, or organization.
Co-written/edited: Shannon Geher
Research/images: FIN
