By Platinum Team April 27, 2018

The Bookshelf: Our List of Good Reads

This post is part of a quarterly series stemming from our team’s love of growth and learning. Here we share some worthwhile reads for any clients, partners and friends who are passionate about personal development too!

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We’re continuing the personal growth momentum with a few more favorites. Check ‘em out below. And, if you missed the first round of picks head here.  

 

The Happiness Advantage by Shawn Achor

The nutshell: Shawn’s big premise is — The lens through which your brain views the world shapes your reality. When your mind is in a positive state, it performs better. You boost your intelligence, creativity, energy and every single business outcome.

Why we love it: This book shows that there’s real power in choosing to focus your mind on the good stuff. It’s truly incredibly what a difference that makes! It’s astounding how a positive perspective can open new doors in performance and well being.

Who it’s for: Anyone who needs a solid reminder to pay attention to what they fix their mind on can benefit from this one. If you’re intrigued by the power your personal narrative has on your life, give this one a go.  

 

Linchpin by Seth Godin

The nutshell: Linchpin is a call to move beyond routine to make a difference in whatever field you choose. Seth tackles how to overcome fear and become “indispensable” in the workplace by creating art instead of mindless, replicable work.

Why we love it: His direct writing style is incredibly compelling. He puts a fire under you, offering the right mix of encouragement (without coddling), to inspire you to challenge the status quo.

Who it’s for: If you’re driven to excellence and are looking to leave a more remarkable mark through your work — whatever that may be — this one is great. Seth will challenge you to level up.  

 

The Gifts of Imperfection by Brene Brown

The nutshell: As a researcher, Brene studied vulnerability for more than a decade and this book is a product of that. She outlines ten guideposts of what she calls a “wholehearted” life — a way of engaging the world from a place of worthiness. As part of that exploration, the book tackles topics like authenticity, self-compassion, resilience and joy.

Why we love it: It’s a small book, but boy, is this one impactful! There’s a delicate balance of personal vulnerability and researched legitimacy, as backed by her extensive interviews.

Who it’s for: If you want to learn how to better embrace imperfection and vulnerability in your life, this is a powerful read. Get ready to dive deep!  

 

Everyone Communicates, Few Connect by John Maxwell

The nutshell: How do you know when you have connected with others? Look for the signs in others including: going the extra mile, showing unsolicited appreciation, unguarded openness, increased communication, emotional bonding, positive energy, unconditional love and more.

Why we love it: John Maxwell is such a pro. He simplifies effective ways to immediately identify with people and relate in a way that increases your influence with them.

Who it’s for: Anyone! We all want to be successful and everyday we interact with others. To be at your absolute best in every interaction with others, you must learn to connect.  

 

Turning Pro by Stephen Pressfield

The nutshell: Through unconventional storytelling, Stephen illuminates a choice we have in the way we approach our work. We can wade through life as an “amateur” or we can choose to “turn pro.” He paints a picture of the differences between these mindsets, ultimately urging us to choose the path of the “professional.”

Why we love it: We love the unexpected way this one is written. It isn’t formulaic. It’s a creative piece of work that delivers a real punch.

Who it’s for: You’re more likely to hear about this one in creative circles than the business world. Still, we think it’s relevant and engaging read for anyone who wants to make a meaningful contribution (project, goal, piece of work), but is hitting some internal resistance. You’ll be challenged to move beyond fear and procrastination and get to work.