Yes, I admit it: I am a bookworm. I have been a passionate, enthusiastic reader since childhood. As a child, I would organize my books based on color and size and “opened” my own library at home. My two brothers thought I was crazy (and still do…).
As a teenager, I spent my summer holidays volunteering at the local library teaching people how to read. When I finished my studies I even taught librarianship for two terms at the Hanover University of Applied Sciences. Books open up a whole other world for me and show me new perspectives and other points of views that I had never considered before.
During training sessions, I am often asked for “reading recommendations” and I am always happy to offer tips. I want to recommend interesting and helpful specialist books that I have enjoyed and hope you will too…
Positivity
Author: Barbara Fredrickson
Available only in English
My conclusion: For anyone looking for more background knowledge on the topics of “resilience” and positive psychology, this book will give you a very revealing insight into studies and various research. Basic knowledge of resilience would be helpful in order to apply the knowledge from this book to everyday life.
The Coaching Habit. Say less, Ask More and Change the Way You Lead Forever
Author: Michael Stanier
Available only in English
My conclusion: For MANAGERS who want to ask their employees the right questions instead of always providing the answers.
Profit from the Positive
Authors: S. Maymin and M. Greenberg
Available only in English
My conclusion: For LEADERS who want hands-on tools which will boost not only their performance but that of their employees by applying the science of resiliency and positive psychology.
Mojo
Author: Marshall Goldsmith
Available in English, Dutch, Turkish and Portuguese.
My conclusion: As the author explains in his book, MOJO is the positive spirit towards what we are doing now that starts from the inside and radiated towards the outside. The book shows the reader the four key factors of MOJO and how to get them back if you have lost them.
Let my people go surfing
Author: Yvon Chouinard
Available in English and German
My conclusion: This book is a moving autobiography, the story of a unique business and a detailed blueprint for hope. It is also an attempt to challenge the culture of consumption that is at the heart of the global economic crisis.
Managing for Happiness
Author: Jurgen Appelo
Available in English and German
My conclusion: A cool collection of activities and games for almost any workshop or team building activity. An insider tip for trainers and facilitators as well as any team lead.
Change als Chance: Veränderung Erfolgreich Gestalten
Author: Slatco Sterzenbach
Avalaible only in German
My conclusion: This book offers a plethora of tools and approaches for personal change in one’s life. I bought “by mistake” thinking it was a Change Management tool book. It’s not. But it’s still a great book when it comes to goal setting, limiting beliefs, removing obstacles, etc.
Führen mit Hirn
Author: Sebastian Purps-Pardigol
Avalaible only in German
My conclusion: For LEADERS or MANAGERS. This book reveals some of the latest findings in the field of neuroscience and is packed with interviews and case studies of some of the top companies in Germany. It is an eye opener and readers will definitely rethink their own management style by the time they finish reading it.