Want some brilliant and easy reads to start 2024?
What's the one book our crew would grab if they were on a journey to read or re-read?
As we step into a new year, it's not just about setting ambitious goals; it's about ensuring we have robust systems in place to achieve them. After all, the heights of our aspirations are grounded in the effectiveness of our daily routines. That's why, as executive leaders, we need to build a 'Minimum Viable Library' of resources that can propel us and our teams towards excellence.
Imagine having a library that's not overcrowded with theory but is rich with practical wisdom that can be applied immediately—a curated selection that focuses on personal development systems, actionable Agile principles, and transformative leadership techniques.
Take, for example, the concept of loving the process over the goal—a principle that's beautifully illustrated in the book "Atomic Habits." It's a reminder that the best performers are those who find joy in the discipline of their craft. They don't just enjoy playing the game; they relish the training that precedes it. This mindset shift is monumental in achieving sustained success.
Another gem from the treasury of practical wisdom is "Rework" by Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson. It's a manifesto that champions the idea of making a meaningful impact. The book echoes the Agile values without explicitly naming them, teaching us the power of simplicity, action, and customer centricity.
And let's not forget the transformative potential of Agile beyond the world of software development. Jeff Sutherland's "Scrum: The Art of Doing Twice the Work in Half the Time" may have a title that sounds too good to be true, but its principles are grounded in reality. Sutherland extends the application of Scrum to all aspects of business and personal life, revealing how focused effort can lead to outstanding results.
As we cultivate our Minimum Viable Library, we must remember that the right resources can serve as a catalyst for growth. Books like these are not just to be read but to be experienced, with their insights integrated into our daily practices.
Five Takeaways:
Systems Over Goals: Your daily systems define the ceiling of your potential, not the lofty goals you set.
Love the Process: Embrace the daily grind and the discipline it brings; it's where true improvement lies.
Simplicity in Action: Cut through the noise and focus on what's truly impactful for you and your customers.
Agility Beyond Engineering: Apply Agile principles across all business functions for a harmonious transformation.
Continuous Learning: Keep updating your knowledge base with practical wisdom from a well-curated library.
If you want to know more, you can check out our new podcast on this subject, recorded recently here