Leadership is one of those areas where there's always room to grow. Whether you're leading a team at work, managing a project, or even guiding a group of friends toward a shared goal, being an effective leader can make all the difference. But leadership isn’t just about calling the shots—it’s about inspiring people, making thoughtful decisions, and sometimes, failing and learning from it.
The good news? There are some incredible books out there that can guide you along the way. These books don’t just give you theories; they offer stories, actionable tips, and insights you can apply in real life. If you're ready to level up, here’s a list of seven must-reads that will help you become the leader people want to follow.
1. Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek
If you haven’t already read Simon Sinek’s work, this is a fantastic place to start. Leaders Eat Last digs into the idea that great leaders prioritize the needs of their team over their own. Inspired by the culture of the U.S. Marine Corps, Sinek explores why some teams trust their leaders and others don’t.
Key takeaway: Leadership is about creating an environment of trust, safety, and belonging. When people feel secure, they’re more likely to work hard and stay committed.
Why you should read it: The book is full of real-life examples and humanizes the leadership process. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about showing up for your people.
2. The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni
Think of this as a leadership book disguised as a story. In The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, Lencioni weaves a relatable tale of a struggling company and its dysfunctional leadership team. He breaks down five key issues that hinder teamwork: absence of trust, fear of conflict, lack of commitment, avoidance of accountability, and inattention to results.
Key takeaway: Effective leadership is about building a cohesive team. You need to address interpersonal challenges before tackling goals.
Why you should read it: It’s practical, easy to follow, and packed with strategies you can implement immediately. Plus, it’s a quick read!
3. Dare to Lead by Brené Brown
Brené Brown brings a fresh perspective to leadership by emphasizing vulnerability and courage. Dare to Lead challenges the traditional idea that leaders need to have all the answers. Instead, Brown argues that the best leaders are willing to embrace uncertainty, ask tough questions, and have open conversations.
Key takeaway: Courage and connection are at the heart of great leadership. It’s okay to admit you don’t know everything—your authenticity will inspire others.
Why you should read it: Brown’s writing is approachable, and her insights are based on years of research. Plus, she includes practical exercises to help you apply what you learn.
4. Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin
Written by two former Navy SEALs, Extreme Ownership takes leadership to the next level. Willink and Babin argue that the best leaders take full responsibility for their team’s successes and failures. The book is filled with gripping stories from their time in combat and connects those lessons to leadership in everyday life.
Key takeaway: If something goes wrong, own it. Blaming others doesn’t solve problems—taking responsibility does.
Why you should read it: The lessons are clear and straightforward, and the authors’ military experiences add a sense of urgency and discipline to their advice.
5. Start with Why by Simon Sinek
Yes, Simon Sinek makes the list twice, and for good reason. In Start with Why, he explores what separates truly inspiring leaders from the rest. The answer? They understand their “why”—the deeper purpose behind what they do—and they communicate it effectively.
Key takeaway: People don’t follow leaders because of what they do; they follow because of why they do it. Finding and sharing your “why” is the first step to inspiring others.
Why you should read it: This book will help you think deeply about your motivations and give you the tools to inspire those around you. It’s not just for CEOs—it’s for anyone who wants to lead with purpose.
6. Good to Great by Jim Collins
What makes a good company—or leader—great? In Good to Great, Jim Collins and his team spent years studying top-performing companies to uncover the habits and traits that set them apart. Although the book focuses on businesses, the leadership lessons are universally applicable.
Key takeaway: Great leaders focus on getting the right people on their team and building a culture of disciplined decision-making.
Why you should read it: It’s data-driven but still engaging. The stories and insights are timeless, and you’ll walk away with a roadmap for leading with clarity and focus.
7. The Art of War by Sun Tzu
An ancient classic that still holds up today, The Art of War is as much about strategy and leadership as it is about warfare. Sun Tzu’s teachings emphasize the importance of preparation, adaptability, and understanding the strengths and weaknesses of both yourself and your team.
Key takeaway: Leadership is about strategy. Whether you’re solving a crisis or planning for the future, careful preparation and adaptability will set you apart.
Why you should read it: Though it’s centuries old, the lessons are surprisingly relevant to modern leadership challenges. Plus, it’s a short read that you can revisit over and over.