Have you wondered how a few simple yet effective shifts in your approach to life can bring about a significant transformation in both your personal and professional growth?
Well, sometimes quick fixes are not enough, it takes a whole lot of tiny new habits to bring out a huge change in us. In today’s times when people easily feel demotivated, unproductive, worthless and fearful about situations, it becomes even more necessary to adapt to new ways that bring a refreshing perspective and a better personality.
Just imagine if one could change these compelling aspects of one’s personal and professional growth merely by reading the right books that might spark some enlightenment in one’s head. In this article, we have covered some really interesting books that offer practical insights on increasing productivity, effective public speaking, the journey of self-discovery and breaking the glass ceilings in the pursuit of a more equitable workplace.
Without much ado, let’s dive into literature that helps you develop essential skills.
Book 1: Deep Works by Cal Newport
Cal Newport is New York’s best-selling author and is a science professor at Georgetown University. He is popularly known for his books on productivity and technology.
Cal in his popular book “Deep Work” focuses on people who aspire to acquire mastery in whatever they do. Such people gain expertise by doing the hardest things and producing at an elite level. He suggests that to make deep work a habit, it is important to develop routines. These routines will aid in strong willpower, which in turn leads to focused concentration.
The book elaborates on four deep work philosophies, each illustrating different routines that are tailored for the reader’s initiation. Each philosophy deals with the allocation of time and offers a balance between deep work and shallow work. He emphasizes the value of scheduling work ahead of time to enhance one's deep work endeavours.
Further, Cal accentuates a powerful concept i.e., the need to rewire the brain. The statement, “Don’t take breaks from distraction but instead take breaks from focus”, carries profound significance urging readers to reflect on their default way of being. In this digital age, where distraction is at our fingertips, focus on work becomes challenging. From embracing boredom to indulging in different forms of exercises, Cal recommends various options to enhance concentration.
Who should read this? Anyone who wants to achieve victory in this distracted world.
You can’t afford success unless you choose to work deep.
Listen and Thrive (Spotify, Audible, Youtube)
Book 2: Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg
Sheryl Sandberg is an American technology executive who served as chief operating officer at Facebook until 2022. Sandberg emerged as a vocal proponent advocating for women to be more assertive in pursuing success in the corporate world. She frequently highlighted that, despite the progress that women had made through the feminist movement, the majority of business leaders were still men, emphasizing the need for women to bridge the "ambition gap."
Lean-In is an interesting read for all working women or men to have a better understanding of the current working climate. Sandberg with statistical evidence highlights that well-educated women are fully capable of taking up leadership roles in workplaces. She challenges gender roles and encourages women to aim for leadership positions with confidence and determination.
The compelling and thought-provoking aspects of this book give a wide view of how women come across various challenges at the workplace and how they must overcome them. Sandberg encourages women to embrace ambition, take risks and lean into their careers. She urges women not to succumb to society’s expectations and internal obstacles that hinder their growth and progress.
She discusses topics such as the ambition gap, success v/s likability, mentoring, communication, motherhood and supporting partners. She advocates for a more equitable workplace and urges that both men and women support and empower each other in their personal and professional journeys.
Who should read this? Women who need that push to start and become unbeatable in all their endeavours.
Start your Transformative Journey (Audible, Youtube)
Book 3: The Quick and Easy Way to Effective Speaking by Dale Carnegie
Dale Carnegie was an American writer and lecturer, and the developer of courses in self-improvement, salesmanship, corporate training, public speaking, and interpersonal skills.
"The Quick and Easy Way to Effective Speaking" was first published in 1962. This book is often considered as the fourth revision of Dale Carnegie's famous textbook, "Public Speaking and Influencing Men in Business," which was initially published in 1926. The original textbook went through over fifty printings in the next thirty years, and it was translated into eleven different languages.
An interesting fact about this book is that although Carnegie died in 1955, the revisions in the current book were made by his wife Dorothy based on his notes and ideas making it a completely brand-new book.
Divided into five parts and fourteen chapters, this book offers insights on public speaking and ways to master it. The author views eloquence as a technique that is accessible to all, requiring a modest effort to comprehend and implement these techniques that will allow the individual to master the art of public speaking.
From fundamentals of public speaking to nuanced behaviour and various kinds of presentations on diverse occasions, Carnegie offers a comprehensive guide. Further, he sheds light on a selection of topics, the art of engaging with the audience in a captivating manner. Emphasizing the importance of humility in the speaker’s approach, he encourages the speaker to identify themselves with the audience.
He covers many references, captivating stories and excerpts from speeches enriching the text with intriguing narratives offering valuable insights on various facets of communication.
This is a brilliant book that takes you through the step-by-step process of effective speaking.
Collect your Insights (Audible)
Book 4: Wabi Sabi by Nobuo Suzuki
Nobuo Suzuki is a philosopher and author who, after studying Art and Literature in Europe, returned to Japan following several years of travel. During his journeys, he developed a technique of combining Zen with various therapies. He now works with clients seeking life changes using alternative methods.
Wabi Sabi is one amazing book that celebrates imperfections. According to the Japanese approach to life, imperfections are perfect. The author metaphorically explains how anything broken, once repaired, becomes a piece of art that adds more beauty than before. This metaphor teaches no matter how much life breaks you; you emerge as a more meaningful and powerful individual. Living examples like Arunima Sinha, Muniba Mazari, Nick Vujicic, and many others, have proved that imperfections do not hinder self-growth, development, and success. Embracing oneself with imperfections leads you to become a perfect version of yourself, which is not just inspiring but empowering.
As the pages unfold, Suzuki emphasises on some truths of life; nothing lasts forever, nothing is finished and very importantly, he imparts his wisdom that there is bliss in simplicity. Suzuki also offers various lessons on acceptance, healing and hope.
This book serves as a therapeutic guidance, especially during times of stress that can overwhelm one’s mental and emotional state. This book guides the readers, aiding them in understanding the true meaning of life and what genuinely matters. One thing is for sure – The writer will shatter all your superficial understanding of life.
Wabi Sabi: Japanese Wisdom for a Perfectly Imperfect Life by Beth Kempton - YouTube
Holistic Approach to Self-Growth
The books covered in this article collectively advocate for a well-rounded understanding of self-growth. Dale Carnegie's "The Quick and Easy Way to Effective Speaking" accentuates the significance of effective communication, emphasizing interpersonal skills as a crucial aspect of meaningful connections and personal development. Cal Newport's "Deep Work", in the realm of productivity, urges individuals to cultivate deep, focused work habits that not only enhance professional output but also contribute to a sense of personal fulfilment. Sheryl Sandberg's "Lean In" adds a vital layer by addressing gender-related challenges in the workplace, promoting career empowerment, and recognizing its critical role in an individual's holistic development. Furthermore, Nobuo Suzuki's "Wabi Sabi" philosophy of finding beauty in imperfection, encourages to accept flaws and fosters a sense of contentment. Together, these books weave a narrative that goes beyond isolated skill development, underlining the need for a comprehensive and interconnected approach to personal growth, where effective communication, focused work, career empowerment, and the acceptance of imperfections amalgamate to shape a well-rounded individual.
Conclusion
Books can truly be our best friends, provided we choose the right ones that can bring about the right change in us. If you are not sure where to begin, then use these books as a starter for self-growth and development, and see how you transform your life by implementing these powerful techniques.