It is hard to escape this fact – leaders are readers. Well, let me clarify – the best leaders are readers. I was recently pointed to a blog post outlining the favorite books of ten famous leaders. This list is interesting for both the variety of leaders and types of books on the list.
It reminds there is great value in reading, regardless of the genre of book. While some people say, “I only read for pleasure”, and some say, “I won’t read novels, I only read business, (insert other appropriate subject matter), etc.” I believe both groups are missing the boat.
The list indicates an important truth – that learning can come from any type of reading, especially if you are prepared for it.
Tomorrow I will post an article about how to get more out of your reading (you will have to find it, I haven’t posted it yet!), and that will be of great help to you as you think about reading and learning and leading.
Until then, let me close by asking you two valuable reflective questions.
What is your favorite book (and why)?
What book has been most valuable to you in your life (and why)?
My favorite book it probably Outliers by Gladwell (though not the chapter on pilot’s).
However, the most valuable book (not counting religious books) has been Leadership and Self-Deception, but the Arbinger Institute. This book taught me that it’s not okay to be defensive all the time. I was stunting my own growth.