A key to success is to be a lifelong learner, and reading can be a way to do just that. Some read to better hone their craft, be a better leader, or escape into history or fantasy to think about the big ideas that define our lives. In times that change quickly, learning timeless truths through books can be the best way to navigate difficult waters.
For D CEO’s May issue, we asked seven DFW leaders to share one must-read book they would recommend to everyone. Here’s what they had to say.
The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer
“The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, which is by John Mark Comer, shines a bright light on how we tend to spend way too much time on things that don’t matter in the long run. When we rush around trying to pack too much into our daily lives, it can leave us feeling empty and full of regrets. The book reinforces the value of restoring balance in our lives by focusing on what’s important.” —Keith Barnes, Cigna
The Obstacle is the Way by Ryan Holiday
An inspiring read for anyone who is faced with adversity. Each story in the book emphasizes pragmatic decision-making and being flexible in the face of changing conditions.”—Adam Abushagur, Marcus & Millichap
Civil Wars by June Jordan
“I’ve gifted Civil Wars by June Jordan to several of my close friends. Here is one line from the book that stays with me: ‘I will learn to love myself well enough to love you (whoever you are,) so that you will love me well enough.’”—Amber Dionne Sims, Young Leaders, Strong City
The Master and Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakov
“Mikhail Bulgakov’s The Master and Margarita (the Burgin & O’Connor translation is my favorite), is a book that changed the way I see the very possibility of storytelling, and the infinite, timeless power of art to change the world.”—Will Evans, Deep Vellum
Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear
“Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones helps show you how to overcome a lack of motivation or talent, change your environment to encourage success, and make time for new and better habits.”—Theresa Motter, Van’s Kitchen
Start with Why by Simon Sinek
“Start With Why asks, ‘What if we showed up to work every day to be better than ourselves? For no better reason than to want to leave the organization in a better state than we found it?’ We must all be responsible stewards of our businesses.”—Tony Carimi, Park Place Dealerships
D Day Through German Eyes by Holger Eckhertz
“D Day Through German Eyes tells the story of many of the young Germans in Normandy as the allies launched their attack. I learned an amazing amount from the book, and it is important whenever you can to hear the other side of the story.”—Melissa Ruman Stewart, Winstead
