Advisor I Mentor

Sparring partner

Piotr

Kania

The end of July is a time when many people take advantage of their vacations to relax and recharge for the second half of the year. It's also a great opportunity to pick up some inspiring books that will not only entertain you during your downtime but also provide interesting insights and inspiration. Here are five books worth having on hand during these summer days, whether you spend them on the beach, by the pool, in a mountain cabin, or in the comfort of your own home.

1. "The American Story: Conversations with Master Historians" by David M. Rubenstein

David M. Rubenstein, co-founder and co-chairman of the Carlyle Group, has had the opportunity to meet many influential leaders from various fields. In his book "The American Story," he shares conversations and reflections with outstanding figures such as Bill Gates, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and Oprah Winfrey. Rubenstein reveals what sets these leaders apart, how they think, their approach to work and life, and what lessons can be learned from them.

Why read it?"The American Story" is a fascinating journey through the stories and experiences of people who have reached the pinnacle of their fields. It’s not just a collection of anecdotes but also valuable lessons on leadership, determination, and overcoming obstacles. It’s a perfect read for those looking for inspiration and wanting to understand what drives great leaders to act.

2. "People with Purpose" by Kevin Murray

Kevin Murray, an expert in leadership and communication, in his book "People with Purpose," explores the importance of having a clear purpose in both professional and personal life. Murray analyzes how leaders can inspire and motivate their teams by setting a goal that goes beyond traditional tasks and responsibilities.

Why read it?"People with Purpose" is a book that shows how important it is for every team member to have a sense of meaning in their work. Murray argues that understanding and setting a purpose can work wonders, not only boosting morale but also increasing productivity and engagement. Reading this book could be the start of changing your approach to work and everyday life.

3. "Uncommon Service" by Frances Frei

Frances Frei, a professor at Harvard Business School, in her book "Uncommon Service," shows how to create outstanding customer service that exceeds expectations. Frei analyzes examples of companies that stand out from the competition thanks to their excellent customer service and offers practical advice on how to achieve such a level in your business.

Why read it?"Uncommon Service" is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand how crucial excellent customer service is in building loyalty and competitive advantage. Frei inspires by showing that commitment to service quality can lead to remarkable business results. It’s a great read for managers and employees at all levels.

4. "CEO Excellence" by Carolyn Dewar, Scott Keller, Vikram Malhotra

The book "CEO Excellence" is the result of research into the greatest successes of CEOs worldwide. Authors Dewar, Keller, and Malhotra present what characteristics and actions distinguish outstanding corporate leaders who transform their organizations and achieve exceptional results.

Why read it?"CEO Excellence" is a compendium of knowledge about what defines an effective leader at the highest level. The authors provide insight into the strategies that lead to success, from decision-making to building organizational culture. This book is an inspiring source of knowledge for anyone striving for excellence in leadership.

5. "The Five Dysfunctions of a Team" by Patrick Lencioni

In his book "The Five Dysfunctions of a Team," Patrick Lencioni reveals the common pitfalls that teams fall into and how to overcome them. Lencioni uses storytelling to illustrate his theses, making the reading accessible and engaging.

Why read it?"The Five Dysfunctions of a Team" is a practical guide to building strong, effective teams. Lencioni points out how important it is to understand and overcome obstacles in teamwork, leading to better results and greater job satisfaction. This is a valuable read for anyone working in a group who wants to improve its dynamics and efficiency.

Vacations are an excellent time to delve into books that not only relax but also provide valuable inspiration and knowledge. By choosing one of the above titles, you have the chance for an engaging read that will help you grow both professionally and personally. Whether you're in the midst of a holiday or looking for something to read in your free time, these books are sure to meet your expectations.