50+ Best Professional Development Books for Book Club in 2026

Best Business Leadership Books

Looking for books to read about leadership? The following list is a great place to start. I've compiled a collection of my favorite best-sellers to help you find a great fit for your leadership style.

1. Spark: How to Lead Yourself and Others to Greater Success

Authors: Angie Morgan, Courtney Lynch, Sean Lynch

Are you a "spark?" These people are catalysts for personal and organizational change. If you're looking for a good book about leadership, check out this book's seven key leadership behaviors to help you become the best "spark" you can be. Anyone can create positive change—will it be you?

2. Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don't Know

Author: Adam Grant

What if intelligence isn't about learning, but instead about rethinking and unlearning? In this thought-provoking book, you'll learn how to "argue like you're right, but listen like you're wrong." You'll learn how to embrace the joy of being wrong, handle charged conversations, and become a lifelong learner. Learn how to let go of views and opinions that no longer serve you and maintain mental flexibility.

3. The Culture Code: The Secrets of Highly Successful Groups

Author: Daniel Coyle

Culture is not something you are; it’s something you do. This New York Times Bestseller reveals the secrets of highly successful groups. You'll learn where great culture comes from, how to build it, and how to strengthen a company culture that needs fixing. This leadership book will help you create environments where people can innovate and problem-solve effectively.

4. The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable

Author: Patrick Lencioni

Become an exceptional leader by learning the five dysfunctions of why teams struggle, and what you can do to overcome common hurdles. After reading, you'll know how to build a more effective team and understand that leadership requires just as much courage as it does insight.

5. Hit Makers: How to Succeed in an Age of Distraction

Author: Derek Thompson

How is pop culture created? Why do some things become popular and others don’t? Do popular movies, songs, and mobile apps really "go viral?" Discover the hidden psychology of why we like what we like and how cultural markets shape our lives.

6. Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don't

Author: Simon Sinek

What if we lived in a world where everyone loved going to work, felt trusted and valued, and returned home feeling fulfilled? According to Sinek, this isn't a crazy notion. The greatest leaders have the power to create environments in which people work together to do remarkable things. Read fascinating stories that cover key differences between successful teams and those that fail.

7. Culture by Design: 8 Simple Steps to Drive Better Individual and Organizational Performance

Author: David J. Friedman

“Culture” has become one of the hottest catchphrases among organizations and leadership teams. Yet, it can be difficult to understand what culture truly is. In this game-changing book, David Friedman creates a roadmap for building a high-performing culture any team can use. Read tips, stories, and examples in this conversational and easy-to-follow book.

8. Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action

Author: Simon Sinek

Why are some people and organizations more innovative, influential, and profitable than others? Why do some have greater customer loyalty and employee dedication? Simon Sinek says to start with the "why." Learn how to understand the why behind your products, services, movements, and big ideas.

9. Business Made Simple: 60 Days to Master Leadership, Sales, Marketing, Execution, Management, Personal Productivity, and More

Author: Donald Miller

Want to gain a clear understanding of how business works? These 60 daily readings are designed to help business owners and professionals take their careers to the next level. From boosting personal productivity boosting sales, supporting marketing, and refining your messaging, the ideas in this book will help you improve your career earnings and create a profitable company.

10. Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter

Author: Liz Wiseman

Why do some leaders drain capability and intelligence from their teams, while others amplify it? The first type depletes energy, talent, and commitment. The other celebrates idea-sharing and problem-solving. Discover how to get more done with fewer resources while attracting talent, cultivating new ideas, and driving innovation at your organization.

11. Gladiators, Pirates and Games of Trust: How Game Theory, Strategy and Probability Rule Our Lives

Author: Haim Shapira

This book uses humor and examples to explain how Game Theory, the study of decision-making, impacts our daily lives. It explores how players, from individuals to political entities, aim to maximize their benefits, despite the challenge of understanding each other’s goals. Shapira simplifies the complexities of interactive decision-making with engaging anecdotes.

Top Leadership Development Books

11. Becoming Trader Joe: How Did I Business My Way and Still Beat the Big Guys

Author: Patty Civalleri

What if you could create a shopping experience your customers adore and a work environment your employees love? In Becoming Trader Joe, Joe Coulombe reveals how he transformed Trader Joe's into a beloved brand by challenging the norms of traditional retail. With a focus on unique products, creative marketing, and a fun, engaging store atmosphere, Coulombe shows how businesses can thrive by thinking outside the box, catering to niche markets, and building a culture rooted in values.

12. The Chutzpah Advantage: Go Bigger. Be Bolder. Do Better.

Author: Mason Harris

Do you have "chutzpah?" Chutzpah can be a hidden talent for many. In this book, Mason Harris covers eight key characteristics for personal and professional success. Drawing from diverse real-life examples, Harris offers practical applications and entertaining anecdotes on living a more fulfilling life.

13. Radical Candor (Be a Kick-Ass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity)

Author: Kim Scott

Great bosses maintain strong relationships with employees. That’s why in this book, you’ll find the three key principles of building better relationships: “Make it personal, get (sh)it done, and understand why it matters.” This book is for people who want to create a productive work environment where their team members can thrive.

14. The Art of Authenticity: Tools to Become an Authentic Leader and Your Best Self

Author: Karissa Thacker

According to Karissa Thacker, everyone brings different sides of themselves to various situations. She teaches readers how to increase effectiveness by presenting the most appropriate side of yourself in any situation. Gain the tools and skills you need to create the long-lasting, positive change your organization needs.

➔ Get it on Amazon.

15. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People

Author: Stephen R. Covey

Every person has habits. Some are positive, some are negative, and some have little impact on your daily life. In this book, Covey teaches how to eliminate bad habits, while also building upon the good ones. This book is for you if you want to learn how to sharpen your most productive habits.

16. The Coaching Habit: Say Less, Ask More & Change the Way You Lead Forever

Author: Michael Bungay Stanier

In this witty and conversational book, Bungay Stanier unpacks seven essential coaching questions to guide your team toward greater results. Inside, you'll find a fresh, innovative approach, plus plenty of insider insights, research-based evidence, and interactive training tools for creating practiced habits.

17. Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap and Others Don’t

Author: James C. Collins

“How can good companies, mediocre companies, and even bad companies achieve greatness?” In this book, James Collins reveals the answer to what makes a company shift from “good” to “great.” Readers will gain insight from his five-year study on the key determinants of greatness, including the leadership skills required to achieve success.

18. Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts

Author: Brené Brown

What if leadership wasn’t about titles or power, but about recognizing potential and developing it? In Dare to Lead, Brené Brown shows that true leadership is about staying curious, sharing power, and embracing vulnerability. Leaders aren’t afraid of tough conversations or uncertain situations; they lean into them to foster growth. Brown argues that in a world increasingly dominated by machines and AI, the most valuable skills we possess are empathy, connection, and courage—traits that every leader can cultivate to create meaningful change.

Best Books for Motivation and Success

19. The Power of Moments

Authors: Chip Heath, Dan Heath

Why do certain experiences in our lives jolt us, elevate us, and change us? In this book, you'll learn that memorable moments are dominated by four things: Elevation, Insight, Pride, and Connection. If we embrace these things, we can create more moments that matter. Read this book to discover how to create richer experiences in your life instead of leaving them to chance or luck.

20. Stop Overthinking: 23 Techniques to Relieve Stress, Stop Negative Spirals, Declutter Your Mind, and Focus on the Present

Author: Nick Trenton

Overthinking is the biggest cause of unhappiness. It's time to stop getting stuck in a never-ending thought loop! This book will give you proven techniques to help you rewire your brain, control your thoughts, and change your mental habits. You'll learn how to become aware of negative thoughts, recognize inner anxieties, avoid self-deprecating talk, and more to help you unleash your potential.

21. Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead

Author: Brené Brown, PhD, LMSW

Every day, we experience uncertainty, risks, and emotional exposure, all of which define what it means to be vulnerable or to dare greatly. Brené Brown dispels the cultural myth that vulnerability is weakness and argues that it is, in truth, our most accurate measure of courage.

22. Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life... and Maybe the World

Author: Admiral William H. McRaven

"If you want to change the world, start by making your bed." In his book, Admiral William H. McRaven shares the ten principles he learned during Navy Seal training that helped him overcome many challenges, not just in his training but also in his life. You'll read practical advice and words of encouragement to inspire you to achieve more, even in life's darkest moments.

23. Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear

Author: Elizabeth Gilbert

Living "beyond fear" involves seeking inspiration, embracing curiosity, and tackling what you love most and facing the things you fear. Elizabeth Gilbert teaches us the attitudes, approaches, and habits you’ll need to have to live your most creative life. This book is ideal for anyone looking to infuse mindfulness and passion into their life.

24. The Greatness Mindset: Unlock the Power of Your Mind and Live Your Best Life Today

Author: Lewis Howes

Are you living your most authentic life, or running from your true purpose? In The Greatness Mindset, Lewis Howes shows you how to reconnect with your purpose, overcome self-doubt, and fulfill your dreams. Through personal stories and science-backed strategies, Howes guides you in rewriting your past to create a powerful future. You’ll learn to define a meaningful mission, conquer fears, end self-sabotage, and manifest your greatness to make a lasting, positive impact on the world.

Best Critical Thinking Books

25. Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High

Authors: Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, Al Switzler, Stephen R. Covey

When stakes are high, opinions vary, and emotions run strong, it can be easy to avoid crucial conversations and suffer the consequences. Instead, discover how to best communicate in life's sticky situations. Say what’s on your mind and achieve positive resolutions you can be proud of.

26. Surrounded by Idiots

Author: Thomas Erikson

Have you ever felt like you're "surrounded by idiots?" In this best-seller, you'll find a simple, yet ground-breaking method for better understanding the personalities of the people you communicate with. You'll discover four personality types (Red, Blue, Green, and Yellow) and learn how to adjust the way you speak and share information to ensure everyone's success.

27. The 4 Pillars of Critical Thinking

Author: Patrick Ian Meyer

Are you struggling to make informed decisions or solve complex problems? This book will help you discover proven strategies to enhance your reasoning, decision-making, and problem-solving skills. This powerful guide helps you sharpen your analytical thinking, detect logical fallacies, and evaluate information accurately. With practical techniques to improve communication and persuasion, you'll gain the confidence to make well-reasoned decisions in both your personal and professional life.

28. Thinking, Fast and Slow

Author: Daniel Kahneman

There are two ways in which we think. Sometimes, we think quickly, intuitively, and emotionally. Other times, we think slower, more logically, and deliberatively. Join world-famous psychologist Daniel Kahneman as he offers advice on thinking slowly and guarding against the “mental glitches” that can get us into a bind down the road.

29. The Energy Bus: 10 Rules to Fuel Your Life, Work, and Team with Positive Energy

Author: Jon Gordon

According to Jon Gordon, there are ten secrets to approaching life and working in ways that lead to true accomplishment. An enlightening and inspiring ride, this book provides an engaging story that teaches readers how to overcome adversity and bring out the best in themselves and their teams.

30. Originals: How Non-Conformists Move the World

Author: Adam Grant

“How can we originate new ideas, policies, and practices without risking it all?” This book uses intriguing studies and stories to illustrate how to recognize a good idea. Find insight on how to speak up without getting silenced, while also building a coalition of allies, choosing the right time to act, and managing any fear and doubt.

31. Why Didn't I Think of That?

Author: Roger Firestien

By addressing the common question of missed opportunities by highlighting the importance of problem-solving, this relatable short story illuminates traditional work and problem-solving methods, showing readers how to innovate on demand, develop diverse options, and implement impactful ideas. The book emphasizes that creativity is a skill that can be learned, much like riding a bicycle, enabling readers to harness their creativity at will rather than waiting for inspiration to strike.

32. Create in a Flash: A Leader's Recipe for Breakthrough Innovation

Author: Roger Firestien

In today's challenging and competitive world, effective leadership demands more than just traditional problem-solving skills. Drawing from over 40 years of experience with organizations like AT&T, Disney, and NASA, Dr. Firestien provides a step-by-step recipe to make any business recession-proof and competition-proof. This essential guide helps leaders thrive in today’s demanding market by delivering creative solutions swiftly and effectively.

33. Solve the Real Problem

Author: Roger Firestien

99% of the time, what we perceive as the problem isn't the root issue. By spending just five minutes redefining problems, Dr. Firestien shows how to uncover more effective solutions across fields like medicine, business, education, agriculture, and manufacturing. This book provides practical tools to ensure solutions address core issues, not just symptoms, making it essential for anyone seeking sustainable success in solving complex challenges.

Sales and Marketing Strategy Books

34. Building a Story Brand: Clarify Your Message So Customers Will Listen

Author: Donald Miller

In this New York Times best-seller, you’ll discover strategies to dramatically improve how to connect with customers and grow your business. Inside, you’ll learn how to simplify branding choices so people understand them and create effective messaging for websites, brochures, and social media.

35. The 1-Page Marketing Plan: Get New Customers, Make More Money, and Stand Out from the Crowd

Author: Allan Dib

Successful businesses aren't built on random acts of marketing. Instead, they follow a reliable plan for rapid growth. If creating a marketing plan sounds too difficult or time-consuming, try reading this book. You'll learn how to create a 1-page, nine-square marketing plan that's fast and simple—no matter your skill level. Personalize your strategy, gain customers, close sales, and achieve big results.

36. InstaBrain: The New Rules of Marketing to Generation Z

Author: Sarah Weise

Does your marketing plan include Generation Z (b. 1997 to 2012)? If not, you're missing massive revenue potential!