Reading for Evolution

One of the founders of the coaching industry, Thomas Leonard, came up with a list of 546 goals to keep us focused and evolving.  I wanted to share one of my favorites:

Goal No 29 – Start reading the books that will help you evolve instead of merely develop.

I’ve not shared much about the books I read and the impact they have on me – shame on me.  Perhaps one or several will make an impact on you as well.

Here are several in no particular order:

• Immunity to Change – A bright, new perspective on the idea of Context, the lens through which we see the world.  Our immunity system (physiologically speaking) is a powerful deterrent to nasty stuff.  It can also be a deterrent to the things that are good for us as well.  Not only do authors, Kegan and Lahey, offer powerful case studies, they walk you through a simple exercise to open up our immunity systems to what we do want to let in.

• Rediscovering Catholicism – You DO NOT have to be a Catholic to appreciate this book.  Matthew Kelly is one of my all-time favorite authors (Rhythm of Life is another winner).  Rediscovering Catholicism takes you on a journey of faith, exploration, and responsibility that any leader must practice.  Whatever “church” you subscribe to, a key message is that you as a leader must take the church to the people rather than demand they come to the church.

• The Last Word on Power – This is the BEST book on the concept of Context and Reinvention.  Author Tracy Goss walks with you on a journey in discovering your winning strategy, understanding your ultimate limitation as a human being, putting everything at risk, playing an impossible game and more.  This should be required reading for anyone older than 18.

• A Year with Rumi: Daily Readings – If you don’t know who Rumi is, you’re missing out.  This dude rocks – period.  Although I grew up saying “I just don’t do poetry”, Rumi has invited me to turn 180 degrees.  Coleman Barks has done a magnificent job in translating Rumi’s works to daily readings that will make an enormous difference in your life.

• The Bible (NRSV or NLT Version) – This is the ultimate leadership manual.  I have both my Catholic version as well as a life application version.  One keeps me connected to my faith translation and the other keeps me connected to using the messages of the Bible in my daily life.  I recommend investing in at least one, leather-bound Bible – don’t skimp and buy the cheap versions.

The list will go on. 

Please email me at preston@prestontrue.com with other book suggestions on leadership, faith and discovery.

Happy Evolutionary Reading,

-Coach Preston