2020 Reading List
Currently reading:
Together: The Healing Power of Human Connection in a Sometimes Lonely World (Vivek Murthy)
I first heard about this book when Adam Grant released his 2020 list of books to read back in January. I was so excited to read it because I believe the topic is incredibly important. Murthy was the 19th Surgeon General of the United States, known for bringing the loneliness epidemic into the spotlight.
Completed:
Conscious: A Brief Guide to the Fundamental Mystery of the Mind (Annaka Harris)
A short read on what conscious might (or might not!) be.
Insight (Tasha Eurich)
An overdue, research based book about how to build self-awareness.
A More Beautiful Question (Warren Berger)
This book blew my mind. Asking questions seems like a simple concept. Berger makes a compelling argument that question-asking is an art form; one that we need to hone if we want to be creative, innovative, and see each other clearly.
Designing Dynamic Organizations (Jay Galbraith, Diane Downey, & Amy Kates)
This was a required text for grad school and it was surprisingly fun to read (if you’re into organizational design). The book follows the “STAR” model for org design (PDF overview), breaking down the concept into chapters covering each component: Strategy, Structure, Processes, Rewards, and People.
Effective Teamwork (Michael West)
Another easy to read book for grad school. West synthesizes decades of research on teamwork to explain how to build and motivate effective teams.
Radical Compassion (Tara Brach)
This book is Tara Brach’s deep dive into the “RAIN” mindfulness practice: Recognize, Accept, Investigate, and Nurture. It’s been a powerful practice for me over the last several months.
Atomic Habits (James Clear)
A new(ish) take on the science of habit building.
The Infinite Game (Simon Sinek)
Sinek is one of my favorite humans. His latest book is about how to lead with an “infinite” mindset where there are no winners or losers.
Weird: The Power of Being an Outsider in an Insider World (Olga Khazan)
A wonderful and personal story by Khazan, staff writer for The Atlantic, about what it means to be different. The book beautifully connects personal stories with research on social norm breaking.
The First 90 Days (Michael Watkins)
A guide to help with job transitions. Primarily written for executives, however there are some useful takeaways for individual contributors.
