When some of the busiest and sharpest minds on the planet pick up a book, you know it’s worth a look. CEOs have hectic lives filled with big decisions, tough calls, and constant pressure. But even they turn to a few reliable books when they need a fresh perspective or a push. Here’s a bunch of self-help books that business leaders swear by. If you’re hunting for some solid reads to get your head in the right space, this list has you sorted.
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey
This one’s a classic for a reason. It talks about things like being proactive, setting clear goals, and not wasting energy on stuff you can’t control. Many top leaders say it changed how they work and live. It’s not preachy, just practical advice you can use. Every chapter feels like a small life lesson you wish you’d picked up years ago, and it sticks with you.
Atomic Habits by James Clear
If you’ve ever tried breaking a bad habit or picking up a good one, you know how tough it can be. This book explains how tiny changes stack up over time and lead to big results. Lots of CEOs recommend it for its no-nonsense approach to building better routines. It also helps you understand how your environment shapes your habits without you even realising it, most days.
Shoe Dog by Phil Knight
This is the story of how Nike started, told by its founder. It’s not a list of success tips, but a raw look at the risks, failures, and stubborn moments behind a huge brand. Many business heads like it because it’s honest and reminds you that even giants start small. It’s one of those books where you root for the underdog, knowing how the story eventually ends.
Deep Work by Cal Newport
In a world where everyone’s glued to their phones, this book is about shutting out distractions and doing real, focused work. CEOs recommend it because staying sharp and productive without burning out is a skill in itself. It also gives simple steps to help manage your time better. It reminds you that deep, meaningful work feels better than endlessly scrolling through pointless notifications.
Start with Why by Simon Sinek
This book talks about how great leaders inspire people by focusing on why they do what they do, not just what they’re selling. It’s a favourite in boardrooms because it makes you rethink your purpose and what drives your decisions. It makes you question whether you’re chasing numbers or building something that matters to you and your people.
Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins
Part memoir, part self-help, this one’s about mental toughness. Goggins offers his brutal life story and how he turned torment into quality. CEOs like it since it’s proud and persuades you to stop making pardons. It’s the kind of book that makes you uncomfortable in the best way and pushes you to test your limits more often.
Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman
A deep dive into how your brain works. It explains how people make choices and why they sometimes make bad ones. Business leaders recommend it because good decisions are half the job, and this book helps you spot your blind spots. It also makes you aware of little everyday mistakes you probably don’t realise you’re making until it’s too late.
Tools of Titans by Tim Ferriss
This is like a collection of cheat codes from successful people. Ferriss interviewed athletes, billionaires, and other high performers, then pulled together their routines, habits, and advice. It’s easy to dip in and out of, which makes it a hit with busy CEOs. You’ll find random tips you didn’t expect but end up using in your daily routine without even trying.
Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl
A powerful book about finding purpose, even in the worst times. Frankl, a Holocaust survivor, talks about how meaning keeps people going. CEOs respect it because work isn’t everything, and this one reminds you to focus on what matters. You’ve got to read it to find out how great this book is. It will give you a lot of meaning in life.
The Hard Thing About Hard Things by Ben Horowitz
Running a company isn’t easy, and this book doesn’t pretend it is. Horowitz shares lessons from his struggles in Silicon Valley. Leaders recommend it because it’s honest about the tough calls and lonely moments you don’t hear much about.
Wrapping It Up
If these books work for people handling billion-dollar businesses, they’ll probably have something useful for the rest of us too. You don’t have to run a company to pick up tips on better habits, mental toughness, or finding purpose. Add a couple of these to your reading list, and see what sticks.
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