Looking for a beach (or back porch) read for summer that is thoughtful as well as entertaining? I recommend the following three books because, while they aren’t business books, they address topics that are currently buzzy workplace issues with wisdom, while also being engaging.
Wherever You Go, There You Are: Mindfulness Meditation for Everyday Life
by Jon Kabat-Zinn
Many businesses are incorporating mindfulness into their workplace culture. Perhaps more of us are searching for how to be in the here and now and be connected with one another in this hectic era? Kabat-Zinn’s book, published in 1994, has sold over 750,000 copies, and today there is a lot of research supporting the benefits of mindfulness meditation as a way to increase focus, lower stress, and otherwise benefit our lives. Kabat-Zinn’s book is still the friendly go-to guide for learning how to do it.
Mindset: The New Psychology of Success
by Carol Dweck
What is called “growth-mindset” has transformed educational classrooms and workplace organizations. Stanford University psychologist Carol Dweck’s pioneering research shows that our attitudes about our talents and abilities—our “mindset”—can affect every part of our lives. Some schools and companies have integrated research and teachings from this book as a part of their culture. It’s a great, eye-opening read.
Talk Like TED: The 9 Public-Speaking Secrets of the World’s Top Minds
by Carmine Gallo
This is a really fun read on the art of persuasive speaking, as found in the most successful TED talks. What makes them so successful? Carmine Gallo interviewed the top TED presenters and other experts to find out nine techniques used in these successful presentations. The book is very helpful for thinking through how to show-up well, engage fully, and be yourself while giving presentations.
I hope you find some great summer reading, and please let me know in the comments if you have a recommendation of your own.