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Dear friends,
I am writing this post far in advance, before my extended, much-postponed travels. I fervently hope that when these words reach you, we are not reeling from more collective trauma. The fatigue and grief have been real. As I prepare for my trip, I’m keeping in mind the words of poet Toi Derricotte, “joy is an act of resistance.”
Recently one of you reached out and asked for my book list from this blog, and I realized that I didn’t have one. Below are some books I recommend, with a short explanation and link to prior post (where applicable.)
When by Daniel Pink. As I described here, this book helped me think about how hourly and daily time management connects to longer-term effectiveness at work and at home.
The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey. I bet you’ve all read this one, but if you haven’t, it’s a classic take on productivity.
Essentialism by Greg McKeown. If you have a hard time saying no, this book is the one for you.
I Know How She Does It by Laura Vanderkam. You know I love time-tracking, and this is the book that got me started.
Drop the Ball by Tiffany Dufu. I love the candid stories from this author who shifted from being an overwhelmed working mom to thriving at work and at home.
Art of Gathering by Priya Parker. This guide to bringing people together feels especially important after 2+ years of pandemic isolation. We could all use a refresher on being together!
Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman. This book underscores the limitations of focusing on productivity and argues against perfectionism. It resonated deeply for me.
Laziness Does Not Exist by Devon Price. I will admit to ending a Zoom meeting with a mentee and immediately ordering this book for them. It helps with letting go of imposter syndrome and treating yourself with compassion.
Do Nothing by Celeste Headlee. The title says it all. Rest is essential for creativity, happiness, and, yes, productivity.
Start with Why by Simon Sinek. An early-career colleague recently told me that I shared the TED talk that sparked this book with her, and that it changed her life. She’s apparently shared it many times. This is an amazing and authentic strategy for persuasion.
Brag Better by Meredith Fineman. Promoting your work is essential and dreaded. Let the author help you.
Working Identity by Herminia Ibarra. This book is for when you know you need some career movement but you don’t know how to get started.
Who by Geoff Smart and Randy Street. The only book on hiring you need.
Decisive by Dan and Chip Heath. My friend told me that after she read this book, she could stop describing herself as indecisive.
Radical Candor by Kim Scott. A wonderful starting point for managing people and leading teams.
I hope this summer brings some time to read and reflect, and I look forward to seeing you, and to better times, ahead.
Warmly,
Urmimala