Over the past four months I’ve made a commitment to my personal development to read on a consistent basis. At the beginning of each month I’ll post my reading list from the previous month. I’ll also write a quick brief of why I found each book valuable. My hope is to add some new content to your reading list. Enjoy!
The Mindful Athlete: Secrets to Pure Performance by George Mumford
Mumford’s own personal experience and work with some of the most successful NBA figures in history (Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Phil Jackson, and others) brings to life the power and effect of mindfulness. The book can get a bit heavy at times, but it’s definitely worth the read.
Elite Minds by Stan Beecham
At the elite levels of sport or business, everyone is talented. What separates those that truly excel and those that falter is the mind. I especially enjoyed the section on why talented high school athletes struggle when moving up to the collegiate level. This book comes with high recommendation.
Stillpower: Excellence with Ease in Sports and Life by Garret Kramer
Unique and thought provoking read. Most of us know that clarity of mind is a key to high performance, but how Kramer suggests you get that clarity is unconventional at best. If you’re only going to read one book on this list, read this one!
Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek
Major takeaways from this book: 1) Human beings have basic needs that must be fulfilled for them to prosper – Put those needs before results or your own needs and the impact can be amazing 2.) There is a huge difference between managing people and leading people – People don’t want to be managed, they want to be lead!
One Word by Jon Gordon
Simple yet inspiring concept that I’ve applied to my daily life (I’ll be posting a blog on this shortly!). Super easy read that only took me a couple hours – definitely worth your time.
The Obstacle is the Way by Ryan Holiday
Don’t look at the packaging – Look at the gift. Anything that happens to us can be viewed as a gift of some of learning, growth, or opportunity. What truly matters is how we perceive that event and taking “right action”.