I’ve written about conference homework and the importance of investing in your success. For me both of these usually lead to more books on my reading list. Here’s my current stack —

Reinventing You by Dorie Clark. I recently started following Dorie Clark on Twitter after hearing one of her interviews with Ron Friedman as part of the Peak Work Performance Summit (there will be another one fall 2016). In this book, she provides a step-by-step guide to assessing your strengths, developing a compelling personal brand and ensuring that others recognize the contributions you can make.

Mastermind by Maria Konnikova. A psychologist and journalist, Konnikova says that we can develop our powers of thought and observation just as Sherlock Holmes did. While I haven’t yet finished the book, I did hear her speak recently, and can’t wait to explore further the mental strategies that lead to clearer thinking and deeper insights.

How Philosophy Can Save Your Life by Marietta McCarty. McCarty was recognized by Virginia Professional Communicators as its Newsmaker in 2014. During her talk she shared how clear thinking, quiet reflection and good conversation are essential to a well-lived life. She strongly encouraged members to start their own Philosophy Club. This book frames ten big ideas for such a club to discuss. When I finish the book, another member and I are considering starting a Philosophy Club.

Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown. I’m looking forward to diving into this book because it’s about getting the right things done, and not trying to do it all. McKeown’s website includes a quiz to see how you are doing with respect to essentialism. He was another participant in the Peak Work Performance Summit, and following his interview, I began to make adjustments on how I spend my time. One way I’ll be spending my time is reading this book.

If you struggle to keep up with your reading list, Peter Bregman writes about how to read a book a week. I have found the advice helpful with particular books. Perhaps you will, too.

Would you share what book (s) are on your learning bookshelf by posting a comment with the title and author and the reason it’s on your list?