OK, we all know you have to motivate yourself in order to motivate others; but how do you keep yourself motivated or come up with different variations that work with those long term employees. One of the best ways to do this is read. Here are a few books that have helped me.
1. 21 Indispensable Qualities of Leadership: Becoming the Leader Others Will Follow John C. Maxwell
Why do some people consistently inspire others to follow their lead? Maxwell breaks down leadership qualities into easy to understand character qualities. Character is what defines a leader, and these traits are what people of character have. A must-read for leaders in any position.
2. Discover Your Strengths Marcus Buckingham
Instead of working against what you know you’re good at find what you are strong in and work to make those stronger. You can also take the personal survey that is in the book.
3. Five Patterns of Extraordinary Careers Spencer Stuart
A remarkable book about how to stand out from your peers and have a better career. One lesson learned: It is better to ask for forgiveness after the fact than it is to ask for permission ahead of time.
4. Who Moved My Cheese? Spencer Johnson
Of course, what book list would be complete without this self improvement book that is all about change. Another book that is well worth the listen, but also worth reading.
5. 7 Habits of Highly Effective People Steven Covey
A must have in your self improvement book collection. If you like to read a lot of books, you are practicing one of Covey’s habits, “sharpening the saw.”
6. How to Think Like Leonardo da Vinci Discover Your Genius: How to Think Like History’s Ten Most Revolutionary Minds Michael Gelb
This book helps you to think more creatively and be more artistic. These factors are important no matter what position you may be in.
7. The Brand You 50 Re-imagine Pursuit of Wow! Tom Peters
A motivational book urging readers to achieve more.
8. What Should I Do With My Life? Po Bronson
A book that tells us it’s okay not to know what you want to do. Many people we think are completely happy may not be. And that we make our own happiness, it all depends on how you deal with it.
9. Rhinoceros Success Scott Alexander
This is a quick read. The book is about leading, and how sometimes you have to do the unpopular to make a difference and stand out as a leader.
10. Advanced Rhinocerology Scott Alexander
The sequel to Rhinocerous Success, it reminded me that leaders are often under attack from all sides, and it’s important to watch your own back because often nobody else will.