Books that make a difference

The worth of a book is to be measured by what you can carry away from it.  ~James Bryce

In the mode of end of year lists, best of, picks and favorites, I find that there are a core set of books I return to repeatedly myself for inspiration, as well as regularly recommend to clients.  So here, in no particular order, are some of my all-time favorites:

The Art of Possibility – written by an orchestra conductor turned leadership development specialist and his psychologist wife, the book gives concrete examples and methods for viewing life as a series of opportunites rather than obstacles. 

The Four Agreements – Be impeccable.  Don't take it personally.  Don't make assumptions.  Always do your best.  All at the same time.  A great set of agreements to hold with yourself and practice out in the world.

Wherever You Go, There You Are – Self-awareness and self-reflection are core elements of nearly every leadership development model out there.  Jon Kabat-Zinn's accessible approach to mindful meditation encourages the ability to be present to whatever is happening in this moment – as this moment is the only one we have in which to choose and act.

StrengthsFinder 2.0 /Strengths-Based Leadership – based on years of Gallup research, these books and their associated online assessment tool is one of the best (in my opinion) and least expensive ways to get an objective view of your strengths and how to apply them as an individual leader and/or in a team setting.  I recommend this to almost every team I work with.

What books have impacted you on your journey?  What resources do you continue to return to?