Want to be more in command and focused in your life? You’re in luck! We have pieced together a list of 9 great books that look closely at focus for leaders.
These are not simply worded pages, but treasure troves of wisdom to help one become a very effective and genuinely attentive leader.
Let us delve into which books may help you on your journey toward leadership at its finest.
1. “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen R. Covey
This is not just a leadership book; it is your ticket to becoming an effective person at all levels of life. Habit 2, “Begin with the End in Mind,” Covey stresses focus. How will you lead your life or your team if you are clear about what you want to get done?
2. “Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us” by Daniel H. Pink
In “Drive”, Pink shares what really motivates people. His book encourages leaders to focus on creating environments that foster intrinsic motivation. When leaders refocus on what drives their team, remarkable results can be achieved.
3. “Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World” by Cal Newport
The main idea of Newport’s book is to do work without distraction. To be a successful leader, you should be equipped with deep working skills. “Deep Work” provides actionable advice on how to build that competency.
4. “Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less” by Greg McKeown
Ever feel like you’re spread too thin? McKeown’s book is a call to focus on what’s important. Leaders learn how to cut out the non-essential so that they can concentrate on tasks that will make the most impactful difference.
5. “The One Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth Behind Extraordinary Results” by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan
Keller and Papasan put forth the premise that doing less will actually enable you to achieve more.
Great leadership can also work through focusing on what is “The One Thing” that will bring success in other people, thereby creating a domino effect.
6. “Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don’t” by Simon Sinek
In this deep, inside look at an inspirational book, Sinek develops the concept of building a culture of trust and safety. When leaders focus their attention on the well-being of their team, they facilitate belonging and commitment.
7. “Mindset: The New Psychology of Success” by Carol S. Dweck
Dweck’s pioneering work on growth mindset is a must-read for every leader. Leaders can find ways to inspire their teams to look at challenges with zeal and to learn more by developing their growth mindset.
8. “Principles: Life and Work” by Ray Dalio
Dalio shares principles he’s followed to be successful in life and business. He therefore writes about decision-making and the need to develop clear principles for your leadership.
9. “The Effective Executive: The Definitive Guide to Getting the Right Things Done” by Peter F. Drucker
This timeless classic stresses effectiveness over efficiency. Doing the right things is what matters to a leader, not doing things right.
Why Are These Books So Important for Leaders?
You may be wondering at this point, why such an emphasis on focus? The thing is, as a leader, you’ve got a lot on your plate. From decision-making to the teams you are leading, there is plenty that calls for your attention.
But the thing is, everything that screams for your attention isn’t important. A great leader needs the ability to filter the noise and zero in on what’s important.
How Will These Books Change Your Leadership?
These books are all different, but they have a common thread: showing you how to narrow your focus. They are not just on sitting quietly and concentrating hard.
They show how you can understand your motivations, those of your team, and those required for the task. They will teach you how to kill the noise, focus on what’s really important, and lead.
What Will You Walk Away with After Reading These Books?
After reading these books, chances are high that you’re going to walk away a little different about your approach to leadership. You’ll:
- Learn how to spot and focus on your highest-leverage activities
- Learn how to inspire and motivate others
- Build the skill of deep work and delivering high-quality output
- Foster a credible and safe environment
- Come with a growth mindset; learn, improve
- Understand that a leader isn’t a title but one who guides people to success
By focusing on the right principles and practices, you can make a real difference. So, are you ready to turn the page and begin your journey to focused leadership success?
These nine leadership books are your roadmap to becoming a leader who stands out for all the right reasons. Pick up one (or all) of these books and start transforming your leadership style today!
