Tuesday, October 21, 2008

My Bibliography

Most of us will have to hear good things about a book on 5 separate occasions before pulling the trigger...unless someone we REALLY respect is the one doing the recommending, in which case ONCE will oftentimes be enough.  

I’m often asked what books have influenced me most over the years.  Usually, I try to determine what subject the inquisitor is looking for before responding; however, if ALL subjects were on the table, here is my current Top 15:

1.      Purpose-Driven Life, Rick Warren. Answering the question, “Why on earth am I here?” Over 1000 Biblical references in this easy read

2.       2. The Dream Giver, Bruce Wilkinson.  Each of us has a big-D Dream hardwired to our heart.  Unpacking the seven different stages one goes through from concept to realization of that Dream.

3.      3. The Dream Manager, Matthew Kelly.  The most powerful motivation for others is their dreams.  Written in story form, much practical application for identifying and pursuing dreams on a personal level, as well as helping harness the power of dreams in others.

4.       4. One Minute Manager, Kenneth Blanchard & Spencer Johnson. Fundamentals of leadership and communication, a must for every manager. 

5.       5. Wild At Heart, John Eldredge. Every man has a heart-wound, most likely dealt by ‘dad’ that must be dealt with.  Men need a battle to fight, an adventure to live and a beauty to rescue.

6.       6. Perpetual Motivation, Dave Durand.  Legacy achievers engage into a pursuit of life’s perfect balance.

7.       7. Rhythm of Life, Matthew Kelly.  Living everyday with passion and purpose to become the best version of ourselves.  Lining up how we know we ought to live with our actions.

8.       8. 7 Strategies for Wealth & Happiness, Jim Rohn. Discipline and action to hit  your written goals; the Seasons of Life.

9.       9. It’s Not About Me, Max Lucado. Rescue from the life we thought would make us happy: life revolves around God, not ourselves.

10.    10. Love Is The Killer App, Tim Sanders.  How to win business and influence friends; be a lovecat and add value with your knowledge, network and compassion.

11.    11. Purpose-Driven Church, Rick Warren. The greatest organizations are on purpose and off self. Valuable for leading a volunteer organization of any kind.

12.    12. The Wealthy Barber, David Chilton.  The most basic book on money ever; fundamentals unpacked.  Pay yourself first; spend less than you make.

13.    13. The Likability Factor, Tim Sanders. Respected or liked?  Better go for both.  Exploring the value of being friendly, relevant, empathetic and real.

14.    14. The Money Book For The Young, Fabulous and Broke, Suze Orman. Practical.

15.    15. Ultramarathon Man, Dean Karnazes.  This dude ran 262 miles straight without stopping.  Then he ran 50 marathons in 50 days in all 50 states.  Crazy.

What would your bibliography entail?