These are a few of the books that I highly recommend reading.They’re listed alphabetically by the author, not by their level of impact on me. Most of these are old reads that I highly recommend to anyone in any field (and that I come back to re-read frequently).
1. “First, Break All The Rules: What The World’s Greatest Managers Do Differently” by Marcus Buckingham and Curt Coffman // This book begins a series of thought-provoking books on work, and how you spend your time there, especially if you’re in a leadership position. Marcus revolutionized my thinking about time management and about staying in my strengths, as it relates to what I spend my time on. This book is perfect for anyone who wonders why they never accomplish their goals in their work life.
2. “Outliers” by Malcolm Gladwell // If you’ve ever read a Gladwell book before, you know how brilliant he is. His research is eye-opening, and the results are so insightful. In Outliers, he lays out his thoughts on successful people and how they get there. Some of the research will surprise you! Phenomenal book!
3. “Courageous Leadership” by Bill Hybels // This is a Top 5 Book for me (as in Top 5 of all time). I dove into this book at a very instrumental transition in my life and I couldn’t put it down. This is chock full of good, practical leadership wisdom. Church leaders, you’ll wear a couple highlighters out on this one. This is absolutely one of my favorite books.
4. “Ignore Everybody: And 39 Other Keys To Creativity” by Hugh MacLeod // This is such a great book for creatives. What’s beautiful is that it’s not all business. There’s lots of humor throughout. You learn a little about Hugh, who writes at www.gapingvoid.com. He got his start by doodling on the back of napkins at bars. He would illustrate insightful thoughts and funny ideas. This book is coming from a “secular” point-of-view, so if a little language bothers you, you probably shouldn’t pick this one up. Just a fair warning!
5. “More Or Less” by Jeff Shinabarger // This is actually the one book on this list that I’ve read recently. I heard Jeff talk about taking his family away to live in Nicaragua for 3 months, and I was immediately intrigued at the rest of the story. This book speaks to the ideas of excessive living, generosity and the juxtaposition of abundance and need. I feel like Jeff has really hit on something that I’ve been thinking about for a little while now. I really enjoyed this one and highly recommend it! Don’t pick it up if you’re not ready to act, though! There are around 50 challenges throughout the book!
6. “Fasting For Spiritual Breakthrough” by Elmer Towns // This is obviously a specifically niched book, but it’s the best book I’ve read on the topic of fasting. Not to mention, my connection to Elmer (as a graduate of Liberty University) hit home for me. I’ve seen and heard this man in person, and appreciate his teaching greatly. You may never read about him on Twitter, but he is a faithful man of God! As Christians, we’re called to fast, and if you need help getting started, look no further.
7. “The Pursuit of God” by A.W. Tozer // This is definitely a Christian classic! It might take you a little while to get used to his language, as this was published in 1948! Make no mistake, though; this should be on every Christian’s bookshelf! Plus, it’s on Amazon for free as the Kindle version right now!
If you’re looking for specific recommendations, I’d love to be of service to you. Shoot me an email!