The Speed of Trust: The One Thing That Changes Everything
Author: Stephen M. R. Covey
Published: February 2008

Book Synopsis
For business leaders and public figures in any arena, The Speed of Trust offers an unprecedented and eminently practical look at exactly how trust functions in our every transaction and relationship—from the most personal to the broadest, most indirect interaction—and how to establish trust immediately so that you and your organization can forego the time–killing, bureaucratic check–and–balance processes so often deployed in lieu of actual trust.

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My Stroke of Insight: A Brain Scientist’s Personal Journey
Author: Jill Bolte Taylor Ph.D
Published: May 2009

Book Synopsis
For Taylor, her stroke was a blessing and a revelation. It taught her that by “stepping to the right” of our left-brains, we can uncover feelings of well being that are often sidelined by “brain chatter.” Reaching wide audiences through her talk at the Technology, Entertainment, Design (TED) conference and her appearance on Oprah’s online Soul Series, Taylor provides a valuable recovery guide for those touched by brain injury and an inspiring testimony that inner peace is accessible to anyone.

Additional Resource

• TedTalk (Link)

Learn more or purchase directly on mystrokeofinsight.com or Amazon. Image courtesy of Amazon.

The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader: Becoming the Person Others Will Want to Follow
Author: John C. Maxwell
Published: June 2000

Book Synopsis
In the tradition of his million-seller The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership, author John C. Maxwell provides a concise, accessible leadership book that helps readers become more effective leaders from the inside out. Daily readings highlight twenty-one essential leadership qualities and include “Reflecting On It” and “Bringing It Home” sections that help readers integrate and apply each day’s material.

Additional Resource

• Key “Take Aways” (Link)

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Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead
Author: Brené Brown
Published: April 2015

Book Synopsis
Daring Greatly is not about winning or losing. It’s about courage. In a world where “never enough” dominates and feeling afraid has become second nature, vulnerability is subversive. Uncomfortable. It’s even a little dangerous at times. And, without question, putting ourselves out there means there’s a far greater risk of getting criticized or feeling hurt. But when we step back and examine our lives, we will find that nothing is as uncomfortable, dangerous, and hurtful as standing on the outside of our lives looking in and wondering what it would be like if we had the courage to step into the arena—whether it’s a new relationship, an important meeting, the creative process, or a difficult family conversation. Daring Greatly’s a practice and a powerful new vision for letting ourselves be seen.

Additional Resource

• TedBlog (Link)

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Thrive: The Third Metric to Redefining Success and Creating a Life of Well-Being, Wisdom, and Wonder
Author: Arianna Huffington
Published: March 2015

Book Synopsis
In this deeply personal book, Arianna talks candidly about her own challenges with managing time and prioritizing the demands of a career and raising two daughters — of juggling business deadlines and family crises, a harried dance that led to her collapse and to her “aha moment.” Drawing on the latest groundbreaking research and scientific findings in the fields of psychology, sports, sleep, and physiology that show the profound and transformative effects of meditation, mindfulness, unplugging, and giving, Arianna shows us the way to a revolution in our culture, our thinking, our workplace, and our lives.

Additional Resources

• Forbes Review (Link)

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Switch: How to Change Things When Change is Hard
Authors: Chip Heath & Dan Heath
Published: February 2010

Book Synopsis
In a compelling, story-driven narrative, the Heaths bring together decades of counterintuitive research in psychology, sociology, and other fields to shed new light on how we can effect transformative change. Switch shows that successful changes follow a pattern, a pattern you can use to make the changes that matter to you, whether your interest is in changing the world or changing your waistline.

Additional Resource

• 20 Minute Summary (Link)

Learn more or buy directly on heathbrothers.com or Amazon. Image courtesy of Amazon.

The Power of Intention
Author: Dr. Wayne W. Dyer
Published: December 2005

Book Synopsis
Intention is generally viewed as a pit-bull kind of determination propelling one to succeed at all costs by never giving up on an inner picture. In this view, an attitude that combines hard work with an indefatigable drive toward excellence is the way to succeed. However, intention is viewed very differently in this book. Dr. Wayne W. Dyer has researched intention as a force in the universe that allows the act of creation to take place. This book explores intention—not as something you do—but as energy you’re a part of. We’re all intended here through the invisible power of intention. This is the first book to look at intention as a field of energy that you can access to begin co-creating your life with the power of intention.

Additional Resource 

• Press Review (Link)

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The Energy Bus: 10 Rules to Fuel Your Life, Work, and Team with Positive Energy
Author: Jon Gordon
Published: January 2007

Book Synopsis
The Energy Bus, an international bestseller by Jon Gordon, takes readers on an enlightening and inspiring ride that reveals 10 secrets for approaching life and work with the kind of positive, forward thinking that leads to true accomplishment – at work and at home. Jon infuses this engaging story with keen insights as he provides a powerful roadmap to overcome adversity and bring out the best in yourself and your team. When you get on The Energy Bus you’ll enjoy the ride of your life!

Additional Resources

• Topic & Discussion (Link)

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Mastery: The Keys to Success and Long-Term Fulfillment
Author: George Leonard
Published: February 1992

Book Synopsis
Drawing on Zen philosophy and his expertise in the martial art of aikido, bestselling author George Leonard shows how the process of mastery can help us attain a higher level of excellence and a deeper sense of satisfaction and fulfillment in our daily lives. Whether you’re seeking to improve your career or your intimate relationships, increase self-esteem or create harmony within yourself, this inspiring prescriptive guide will help you master anything you choose and achieve success in all areas of your life.

Additional Resources

• Analysis of Main Points (Link)
• Video Analysis & Review (Link)

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The 8th Habit
Author: Stephen R. Covey
Published: 2004

Book Synopsis
A miniature version Covey’s popular original, The 8th Habit, holds powerful insights that challenge us to find our voice and inspire others to find theirs. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People guided individuals to improve their lives and organizations. Now The 8th Habit inspires us to thrive, innovate, and lead in order to move beyond effectiveness and into greatness.

Buy directly or learn more on stephencovey.com or Amazon. Image courtesy of Lead21.