Reading can be a huge kick in the pants for leaders. It helps you digest the knowledge of leaders who have come before you. It also allows you to avoid their mistakes.

That’s why every month I bring you 5 books you should consider reading. These books will help you become a better leader and grow the skills you need to lead like no other.

Check out the books leaders should read in July 2021 below.

5 Books Leaders Should Read In July 2021

1. Brighten Your Leadership Light by Gary Hassenstab:

Gary recently released this book and it is fantastic. He uses wisdom found in the Bible to guide you to becoming a successful leader.

You will find each chapter lists a personal value a leader should strive to have. You will also find direction on how to apply these values to the way you lead.  Read more...

When we reward people based on their behaviors, they begin to repeat those behaviors. Edward Thorndike researched this and coined the term The Law Of Effect.

The Law Of Effect states:

responses that produce a satisfying effect in a particular situation become more likely to occur again in that situation, and responses that produce a discomforting effect become less likely to occur again in that situation (Gray, 2011, p. 108–109).

Photo by Wes Hicks

Or, in simpler terms, Behaviors immediately rewarded increase in frequency, behaviors immediately punished decrease in frequency (John Maxwell).

Maxwell shares the behaviors he would like to see repeated. These behaviors are:

• Positive attitude
• Loyalty
• Personal growth
• Leadership reproduction
• Creativity

These are all great leadership behaviors. I agree with Maxwell that these need to be traits leaders are reinforcing on a regular basis.  Read more...