[May 21, 2016] Do people read any more? That was the question a young girl asked me at the book store last week. I was hesitant to answer in some way other than in platitudes. But it got me to thinking that people don’t read as much as they used to because other “fun” things are quicker to grab the attention; like video games. I was at the book store to find old books on leadership from the 1800s written by military officers of the time because I’m fascinated by what motivates military leaders to change. I didn’t find any book but today’s selection is a classic. Good reading!
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lesson in Personal Change, Stephen R. Covey, 1990.
Author Covey begins his classic book on the premise that some people are motivated to change themselves into something better. He says that to do so requires we adopt a paradigm shift; one that focuses on personal attitudes and behaviors. The book as describe in the title is about the seven habits of highly effective people and the techniques for adopting them. Covey is a good writer and uses persuasive arguments, a flowing writing style, and pertinent examples that helps hold our attention. The first three habits are about self-mastery; most difficult because this is where change begins. Habits four through six are about teamwork, cooperation, and communication. And the seventh habit involves all the other habits to help the person work toward continuous improvement. Like many of the leadership concepts addressed here in this blog, to improve requires a person to continuously learn, commit, and do things on a higher plane. Highly recommended.
… and now for our bonus book:
The Book Thief, Markus Zusak, 2005
I became aware of the story from the movie with the same title. A fictional account of a young girl Liesel Meminger living with her foster family in Germany during WWII. Narrated by Death, the story line follows the girl as she steals books while the Nazis burn them. She and her friend Rudy are discovering the power of the written word, as well as language and friendship. The book is emotional and worth reading by anyone. Mesmerizing! Add it to your library.
To go to the full Professional Reading list, simply click on this direct link: www.theleadermaker.com/reading-list/
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