Books on Joan's Mind
One of my most asked questions I get is, “What have you been reading lately?” This is a list of books that are still very top of mind and have inspired me to test my own assumptions and beliefs while encouraging me to think positively, creatively and intentionally about my future.
Originals
by Adam Grant
Adam Grant is a thoughtful social psychologist that has inspired me to ponder her own thoughts about creativity. I buy this book 4 at a time to ensure I always have a copy, even after I give a few away.
An Everyone Culture – Becoming a Deliberately Developmental Organization
by Robert Kegan and Lisa Laskow Lahey
These authors are solid thinkers and skip all the blah blah blah. They are Harvard developmental psychologists applying developmental themes in the work place.
The Positive Organization
by Robert E. Quinn
The Positive Organization has challenged me to question what the word “positive” really means. I’ve used the word for ages, but now I’m giving it a fresh new look. And don’t be surprised if you see this book moving to my All Time Favorite list (located at the bottom of this page) in the future.
Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End
by Atul Gawande
Despite the title, this book is less about dying and more about the dominant cultural voice versus your own inner voice. It is a both/and. Being Mortal spends time helping one understand the nature of conflict and the competing priorities of being safe and independent.
Joan's Select Library
“What are your favorite Leadership & Facilitation books?” This curated list of books continues to inform my work and life. Some are faster reads (fastest: Brain Rules, The Art of Possibility), and others explore a lot of theory and are very in-depth, such as Theory U. You’ve probably seen these books on the Recommended Reading list for my workshops (including Inspired Facilitation and Leadership & Legacy).
