Books: My Recommendations

Top 10 Recommended Books From my Adult Life

Alright everyone, this week we are taking a break from my usual business-related tips and tricks. I have been very invested in personal growth lately, and as I have stated previously, reading is one of the best ways to do this. Have you ever heard of someone feeling worse about themselves after they finished a book? The answer is no, because whether it is for personal enjoyment or professional development, there is always something to be learned from a good book. So, without further ado, here are my Top 10 recommended books from my adult life.

1.      The CEO Next Door by Elena Botelho & Kim Powell

This book snagged the number one spot on my book club list because it is without a doubt, my favorite book of all time. Botelho and Powell give you an inside look into what makes a great Chief Executive Officer of a company. What I find unique about this book is that the authors deliberately detail the personality traits that make up an executive, rather than the required skills. These authors have done extensive research and interviews of the most successful CEO’s in the world and have condensed it all into this book so that you can develop the traits to becoming a great CEO. You might be saying, “Griffin, none of us are going to be CEO’s.” Yes, I understand that not everyone becomes a CEO, but these traits also contribute to being a good human and successful in your respective career. Now, before I give away too much, go read for yourself!

2.      Drive by Daniel Pink

What motivates humans? Well, Daniel has the answer for you. You might think the basic things like money, pride, freedom, are what drive people to be great. Daniel Pink shows us throughout this book that there is so much more that goes into motivation. Reading this book will open your mind to the realization that our motivations as people are far deeper than money and pride. Are you looking for personal growth? This is the book for you, my friend.

3.      Bluefishing by Steve Sims

This title might turn many of you away because it makes no sense at first glance, and no this is not a fishing book. Bluefishing teaches you how to get things done. Before you skip ahead because you think you are already efficient and focused, this is an area where I know we can all continue improving. You will be surprised, in every situation there is a key and all you need to do is find the keyhole. Steve Sims can articulate this much better than I can, so do yourself a favor and read this book. Learn the secrets and tips that helped this author get to where he is today, and hopefully help you get to where you want to go.

4.      Linchpin: Are You Indispensable? by Seth Godin

Before you read any further, are you indispensable? This question might produce a surprising answer. I was absolutely dispensable before reading this book. That is not to say that I am completely indispensable now, but I am actively implementing ideas from this book into my everyday life to keep myself on the path to becoming indispensable. Learning to become a unique artist and not measly cog in the machine that is your company, will save you and your professional career. Building, creating, and growing are innate characteristics of humans. Are you building, creating, and growing as much as you are capable?

5.      Liar’s Poker by Michael Lewis

Do you want to get an inside look at how our financial markets work and how the people on Wall Street operate? This is the book for you. Learning about our economy is a crucial skill that everyone needs, but not everyone has. The common misconception is that the economy is all numbers and statistical trends, when in reality, if you can gain a basic understanding, you will be better able to make fiscal decisions for you and your family. This book also appeals to the comic, as it takes a humorous approach that will keep you chuckling and engaged throughout the whole book (unlike other financial books that, let’s be honest, are super bland). Even if you have no interest in finance, I highly suggest you start here because the information in this book is relevant and interesting to the average Joe.

6.      Give and Take by Adam Grant

We all run into situations where we do not know whether to give or to take. This includes business deals being made, arguments with your partner, or just general tasks you are doing in a day. Learning how to master the art of giving and taking can help keep you feeling positive and keeping all of your relationships healthy and strong. This book has a more personal feel, so if you are a reader on the path of personal growth and emotional well-being, I highly recommend this book.

7.      The Ten-Day MBA by Steven Silbiger

Do you want to earn a Master of Business Administration, but do not have the time or money? Give this book a try! With every new chapter you read a day, you will learn a new skill. Obviously, this is not an actual MBA program, but the author makes a point of showing you that the information people learn during their times programs, can be learned outside of the classroom as well. This book goes in depth into what the most prestigious schools in the world teach their MBA students. If that interests you, or you have just graduated from college, I would definitely give this a read.

8.      The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz

Do you want to live a happier life? Do you want to gain personal freedom? If that sounds like you, go out and find this book. This short read is perfect for people feeling stuck in life right now. Miguel Ruiz does a great job of explaining what we typically overlook in our everyday life, and how to refocus on yourself. I, for one, felt much happier after reading this book for the first time. I felt even happier after reading it for the second time, and now I am constantly reminding myself of the four agreements throughout my day to maintain a growth mindset.

9.      Win Forever: Live, Work, and Play like a Champion by Pete Carroll

Let’s be honest for a second, who doesn’t love Pete Carroll? Go Hawks! Did you see the nail biter finish with the Patriots on Sunday? Okay, I digress…back to the book. Pete Carroll has always fascinated me when it comes to his approach to not only football, but also his life as a whole. Plain and simple, this autobiography is a great read. Carroll delves deeper than just football and sports; he connects the aspects of a great competitor and a driven person to the success you can achieve in your non-professional-football-playing life. Do you want to be a champion? Read this book.

10.      The Intelligent Investor by Benjamin Graham

This book has been referenced as the greatest investing book of all time. I would agree 100% with that statement. Anyone who wants to start learning about investing, start here and learn the basics. Graham breaks down complex topics into easy-to-follow guides on how you should be investing your money. If you want to take financial control over your life, you need to start with understanding how your money can work for you. I will not be the only person that tells you this, and this book makes sure to remind you many, many times. Give it a read!

I am very passionate about this particular blog post because I have mentioned before the importance of actually picking up that book you always say you are going to read, but never do. I hope this list gives you a book, or even an idea of a book you want to pick up and open the cover. If you do read one of these, please reach out and let me know your thoughts and reactions, I enjoy hearing from my following. Happy reading!