The Selfless Way: 10 Books That Shaped My Leadership

People ask me all the time what podcasts I listen to or what books I read. The podcast list will come later, but today I want to start with books. Reading has shaped how I think, lead, and live more than almost anything else.

The problem with recommending books is that I am always reading. I believe leaders should always be learning. But if you asked me for the ten books that have had the biggest impact on how I see leadership and transformation, these would be the ones.

As a leader, staying teachable is everything. The moment you stop learning, you stop growing. Reading does more than give you information. It helps you move from knowledge to wisdom. These books have challenged me, humbled me, and reminded me that leadership is less about position and more about becoming.

So here they are, in no particular order, ten books that have shaped my journey as a leader and as a person.

1. As a Man Thinketh by James Allen
   A short classic that reminds you your thoughts shape your destiny. Leadership begins in the mind.

2. Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki
   A powerful lesson on how to think differently about wealth, stewardship, and financial leadership.

3. Atomic Habits by James Clear
   A book about the small, consistent choices that create lasting change. Every leader should read this at least once.

4. Soar by T. D. Jakes
   A reminder that faith and strategy go hand in hand. This book helped me see that vision without preparation is just a wish.

5. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey
   One of the most practical and timeless guides on how to lead yourself and others with integrity.

6. Good to Great by Jim Collins
   A leadership essential. It proves that greatness is built, not born, and that humility is a competitive advantage.

7. Destiny by T. D. Jakes
   A book about calling and purpose. It reminds you that every experience, even the painful ones, prepares you for where you are going.

8. Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl
   One of the most profound books ever written. Frankl’s story of finding purpose in the middle of suffering changed how I see leadership, resilience, and faith.

9. The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John C. Maxwell
   A blueprint for leadership that grows with you. I still revisit this book to stay grounded in timeless principles.

10. Awaken the Giant Within by Tony Robbins
    Robbins challenges you to take full responsibility for your life and your influence. It is a reminder that transformation begins with ownership.

These books are not just about leadership. They are about transformation. They teach you how to think, how to serve, and how to grow. They challenge you to lead with conviction instead of ego, with wisdom instead of noise.

If you are serious about growing as a leader, pick one. Start there. Highlight, take notes, and more importantly, apply what you read. The best books do not just inform you. They transform you.

Reading has also helped me lead with purpose when life gets heavy. It has prepared me for situations I had never been in before. It helped me stay ready so I did not have to get ready. Reading has allowed me to learn from the mistakes and best practices of others. It has accelerated my growth and reminded me that the struggles of the process are part of the journey.

Because at the end of the day, leadership is not about having all the answers. It is about staying curious, staying humble, and staying committed to becoming the kind of person worth following.

About the author

Henry Sanders is the CEO of Madison365, founder of the 365 Leadership Summit, and an executive coach who helps leaders navigate transitions, build trust, and lead with lasting impact — not just surface-level performance. Just stepped into a new leadership role — or preparing for one? Start with a free 15-minute Leadership Audit: a no-pressure session designed to help you clarify your next 100 days and lead with presence, not panic. To schedule your session or learn more about executive coaching, email [email protected]. And don’t miss the 365 Leadership Summit on November 3 — where real leaders come together to build what lasts. Visit 365Leadershipsummit.org to register.

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