My Leadership 7: What’s on your list?

by May 19, 2017Insights, Leadership

I was recently asked to define people-centered leadership. This question came on the heels of 2 days with 13 leaders, as part of a leadership development program I designed and deliver once a year for a Michigan-based company. The timing was perfect, because the first task I give them is to finish the sentence, ‘Leadership is . . .’

So when the teacher (me) became the student, here are the 7 books that came to mind as having shaped my thinking on leading in all areas of my life:

  1. The Servant by James C. Hunter
  2. One-Minute Manager by Ken Blanchard and Spencer Johnson
  3. Season of Life by Jeffrey Marx
  4. Good to Great by Jim Collins
  5. First, Break All The Rules by Marcus Buckingham and Curt Coffman
  6. Now, Discover Your Strengths by Marcus Buckingham and Don Clifton
  7. Tuesdays With Morrie by Mitch Albom

Why Season of Life by Jeffrey Marx? As a parent and a leadership coach, I am often reminded of how both roles require the same skills and focus. I love this book because of the message and the wisdom it shares. It helped me define my own belief that I share in my book: I believe fear motivates for the short term and love motivates for the long term. I guess you could say I teach leaders how to love in the workplace. If that sounds risky, read my book – Chapter 1: ‘I Believe…’, point 4.

Why Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom? I coach leaders who are amazingly successful, but all the money and power in the world won’t make their sacrifices worthwhile. This book helped me seek a more balanced state before my death bed and is a constant reminder of the value of relationships.

What books on your list helped you define – Leadership is . . ? I would love to hear them.

Listen . . . Lead. Repeat often! (This is at the core of people-centered leadership.)

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