Leadership Books Every Leader Should Read

Great leaders never stop learning. Whether you're leading a team, an organization, or simply striving to become a better version of yourself, continuous growth is essential. Over the years, I’ve read many leadership books that have shaped my approach to coaching, management, and personal development. Some books offer practical strategies, while others challenge the way we think, act, and inspire others.

In this blog, I’m sharing some of my favorite leadership book recommendations—the ones that have profoundly impacted me and that I believe every leader should read. Each of these books has helped me become a better leader by refining my approach, strengthening my mindset, and deepening my ability to lead with strategy and heart. Let’s dive in!

1. "Dare to Lead" by Brené Brown

Why I Loved It: This book completely changed how I view leadership. Brené Brown’s approach to vulnerable, courageous leadership is game-changing. She emphasizes that great leaders aren’t fearless—they’re brave enough to lead with authenticity and empathy.

Why You Should Read It: If you struggle with tough conversations, workplace vulnerability, or balancing strength with compassion, this book is for you. Brown offers real-life examples and actionable steps to help leaders build trust, lead with integrity, and create a culture where people feel safe to innovate and grow.

2. "Extreme Ownership" by Jocko Willink & Leif Babin

Why I Loved It: This book is a masterclass in accountability. Willink and Babin, both former Navy SEALs, lay out powerful lessons on taking full responsibility for everything in your leadership role.

Why You Should Read It: If you want to build a high-performing team, this book will shift your mindset. It’s packed with battlefield-tested principles that can be applied to any leadership role, teaching you how to lead with discipline, adaptability, and total ownership of both successes and failures.

3. "The 5 Levels of Leadership" by John C. Maxwell

Why I Loved It: This book breaks down what it truly means to grow as a leader, from simply having a leadership title to actually inspiring and developing others. Maxwell’s framework is both simple and powerful, helping leaders see exactly where they stand and what they need to do to level up.

Why You Should Read It: Whether you’re new to leadership or a seasoned professional, this book will give you a clear roadmap to becoming a leader who not only gets results but also inspires and empowers others.

4. "The Coaching Habit" by Michael Bungay Stanier

Why I Loved It: This book transformed how I coach and communicate. It’s all about asking better questions, listening deeply, and leading through coaching rather than micromanagement.

Why You Should Read It: If you want to develop stronger leadership conversations and empower your team to think critically, this book will help you become a leader who guides, rather than dictates. The techniques are simple, yet incredibly effective.

5. "Radical Candor" by Kim Scott

Why I Loved It: Leadership is about balancing compassion and honesty—and this book teaches you exactly how to do that. Kim Scott’s concept of Radical Candor encourages leaders to challenge directly while caring deeply.

Why You Should Read It: If you struggle with giving feedback or having difficult conversations, this book provides practical tools to help you lead with honesty while still being empathetic. It’s a must-read for any leader who wants to create a culture of trust and accountability.

Keep Learning, Keep Leading

The best leaders are lifelong learners. Each of these books has profoundly shaped my leadership style, and I know they can do the same for you. Whether you’re looking to enhance your emotional intelligence, improve team accountability, or refine your coaching skills, there’s a book on this list to guide you.

What’s your favorite leadership book? Drop a comment and let’s keep the conversation going!

Want to Elevate Your Leadership?

If you’re looking for personalized leadership coaching to help you apply these lessons in real life, I’d love to help. Let’s connect and take your leadership to the next level!