You are never too old to keep learning! Working decades in the construction industry, I have gained my own perspectives, wisdom, and understanding of how our world works. However, one of the main reasons I love to crack open (or listen to) a good book whenever I have the time is that being a continuous learner is a lifelong passion of mine. I recognize the importance of developing a well-rounded perspective in today’s fast-paced and evolving society. Gaining business insights from diverse demographics can help you learn from each leader’s experiences, challenges, and strategies, offering unique lessons that can inspire innovation and inform decision-making across sectors.
Check out some of my favorite oldies but goodies about business titans that have profoundly shaped my thinking:
Transforming NOKIA: The Power of Paranoid Optimism to Lead Through Colossal Change
No matter your industry, this book equips you with the tools to enhance your strategic thinking, broaden your possibilities, capitalize on emerging opportunities, and ACHIEVE during uncertain and changing times. The future of modern society is an enigma – especially with advanced technology – which can pose a problem for business leaders aiming to navigate competitive markets successfully. “Transforming NOKIA” by Risto Siilasmaa offers a compelling account of how Nokia's leadership was able to adapt and evolve during times of crisis. I often call myself an “irrational optimist,” so I enjoy how Siilasmaa emphasizes the concept of “paranoid optimism”—a blend of cautious realism and optimism that encourages leaders to prepare for potential problems while remaining hopeful for the future. Regardless of what the future may bring, this book is an excellent guide to staying resilient and agile.
“The ultimate icon of inventiveness and applied imagination.” A name and legacy that truly needs no introduction, author Walter Isaacson highlights the brilliant mind and life of the co-founder of Apple, Steve Jobs, based on 40+ interviews with Jobs himself as well as over 100 with family members, friends, adversaries, competitors, and colleagues. The book explores Jobs’ journey from his early days to his rise as a tech visionary, showing how his relentless drive for innovation and perfection revolutionized six industries: personal computers, animated movies, music, phones, tablet computing, and digital publishing. It also shows a bit of his complex and intense personality, leadership style, passion for design, and the challenges he faced both professionally and personally. It’s a great read about the failures and accomplishments of one of the most creative entrepreneurial tech geniuses in history and how to create value in a transforming society.
Amazon Unbound: Jeff Bezos and the Invention of a Global Empire
Your package is here – and its contents are an understanding of how a retail underdog rose to become one of the most influential and formidable forces in the global economy. “Amazon Unbound” by Brad Stone gives an in-depth look at how Jeff Bezos transformed Amazon into an international powerhouse through tireless expansion and unwavering vision. Most homes, offices, and spaces in America and beyond have been touched by Amazon and Bezos, whether via Amazon Prime, Alexa, or cloud computing (and even Blue Origin). Stone examines how Bezos has been willing to take significant risks, which has played a key role in Amazon’s growth, along with some of its controversies – like labor practices and competitive strategies. This book is an interesting behind-the-scenes look at one of the most influential figures in the business world today.
No Rules Rules: Netflix and the Culture of Reinvention
Netflix has forever altered the face of entertainment services – but may have gone even further to revolutionize corporate culture. The company launched in 1998 as a DVD rental service and has since transformed into a global entertainment powerhouse by embodying flexibility and creativity to reinvent itself continually. In “No Rules Rules,” authors Reed Hastings and Erin Meyer touch on Netflix's culture of freedom and responsibility, which rejects traditional corporate norms to foster a dynamic and innovative environment. A company is only as good as its people, and ensuring they are satisfied and well taken care of is a vital component of sustainable success. I found it very inspiring to read that Netflix employees have no formal vacation or expense policies, receive great severance packages for even average performances, and are encouraged to give honest feedback, making it stand out in the business world. For those seeking to inspire their organizations and drive meaningful change, this book is a must-read!
Reading On
By learning from different viewpoints, whether it’s a focus on sustainability, technological advancement, or team management, leaders can adapt their approaches to be more versatile and inclusive. NEVER stop reading – and use what you learn to cultivate spaces that embrace new ideas and drive long-term success.
