I recently posed a question on LinkedIn to hear what sources others are using for inspiration in their quest to become better leaders. I specifically called out “non-business” books and shared the three I was currently consuming. I was surprised and delighted by the responses, so wanted to share an easy reference list here.
But first, why bother?
Leadership at its Core
Leadership isn’t just about quarterly reports and strategic planning. It’s fundamentally about human connection, self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and the ability to inspire others. These qualities are explored deeply in philosophy, psychology, spirituality, and personal development literature.
When we expand our reading beyond conventional business texts, we discover universal principles that apply directly to our work environments: how to be present during difficult conversations, how to cultivate patience under pressure, and how to create an abundance mindset in our teams.
Reads Making an Impact
In alphabetical order, here is the list of non-business books that are currently shaping the leadership perspectives of some friends and colleagues:
Abundance by Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson
Challenges scarcity thinking and shows how an abundance mindset can transform the leadership approach to innovation and resource management.
Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
Celebrates creativity and intuition, reminding leaders that not everything in business needs to be linear or logical.
Breakfast with Seneca by David Fideler
Ancient Stoic wisdom for modern leaders on resilience, decision-making, and leading with virtue.
Dare to Lead by Brené Brown
Explores vulnerability and courage as essential leadership qualities for building trust and fostering innovation.
Emergent Strategy by Adrienne Maree Brown
Offers nature-inspired approaches to leadership and organizational change that embrace adaptation and growth.
The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz
Four simple principles for personal freedom that help leaders communicate more clearly and avoid unnecessary conflict.
How To Love Better by Yung Pueblo
Explores emotional healing and conscious communication, providing leaders with tools for more authentic relationships and team dynamics.
Living Untethered by Michael Singer
Offers insights on letting go of limiting beliefs and emotional baggage that can hinder leaders from reaching their full potential.
Moral Ambition by Rutger Bregman
Challenges leaders to think bigger about their moral responsibility and the positive impact they can create.
Orbital by Samantha Harvey A meditation on perspective and interconnectedness that can shift how leaders view their role in the larger system.
Peace Is Every Step by Thich Nhat Hanh
A practical guide to mindfulness that teaches leaders how to stay present and make more thoughtful decisions under pressure.
Rapt by Winifred Gallagher
Examines the science of attention and focus, teaching leaders how to direct their mental energy toward what matters most.
Silence in the Age of Noise by Erling Kagge
Explores the power of silence and solitude for clearer thinking and better decision-making in our noisy world.
Social Justice for the Sensitive Soul
Provides a compassionate approach to social justice work that helps leaders navigate complex equity issues with empathy.
The Wealth Money Can’t Buy by Robin Sharma
A framework for true wealth that goes beyond financial success, helping leaders prioritize what truly matters for fulfillment and effectiveness.
Your Brain on Art by Susan Magsamen and Ivy Ross
Reveals how engaging with the arts transforms our brains and enhances creative problem-solving in leadership.
The Leadership Connection
What makes these books particularly valuable for leaders is their focus on fundamental human qualities that directly impact professional effectiveness:
- Mindfulness and presence enhance decision-making and team communication
- Emotional intelligence and self-awareness improve conflict resolution and team dynamics
- Abundance thinking fosters innovation and collaborative problem-solving
- Compassionate communication builds trust and psychological safety
These aren’t soft skills—they’re essential leadership competencies that measurably impact team performance, employee engagement, and organizational culture.
Add to this List
Leadership development through diverse reading is deeply personal. The books that resonate most strongly with you will likely be the ones that create the most significant shifts in your leadership approach.
What non-business books are currently on your reading list? How are they shaping your perspective as a leader? The most valuable leadership insights often come from the most unexpected places—sometimes we just need to be open enough to find them.