What to read December ‘23
A curated list of books that don't just fill your shelves—the kind of books that sit with you long after you’ve turned the last page
‘What to read’ is my end-of-the-month recommendation and round-up of the books I read last month, which I think you would enjoy during your coffee breaks.
It is a short, curated list of books that don't just fill your shelves—the kind of books that sit with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
These could be the books which provoked:
The ideas that changed my mind unexpectedly (and could do the same for you)
The reflections that inspired me to see the world a little differently
Curiosity. You should know that curiosity not only boosts creativity but also helps you live longer, according to recent research...”1
Best discoveries from December ‘23:
Hidden Potential by Adam Grant
The research is clear: talent is overrated. Studies show that "natural ability" accounts for only 20-30% of performance. Grant's book reveals how characteristics we often overlook—like curiosity and resilience—are actually better predictors of long-term success.
Most compelling finding? People who view potential as expandable outperform those who see it as fixed by up to 40%, regardless of initial ability.
Read this if:
You've been labelled "not naturally talented"
You're ready to trade a fixed mindset for growth
Now, discover your strengths by Marcus Buckingham
Here's what Gallup's research shows: people who focus on their strengths are 6x more engaged at work and 3x more likely to report high quality of life. Buckingham's book reveals why traditional development approaches fail: we spend 80% of our time trying to fix weaknesses that rarely improve beyond mediocrity.
The shift? Excellence comes from amplifying strengths, not eliminating weaknesses.
Read this if:
Your performance reviews focus on "areas for improvement"
You're tired of trying to be good at everything
Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel H. Pink
Pink's analysis reveals why our fundamental assumptions about motivation are wrong.
The science is clear: autonomous motivation produces better results than controlled motivation, with studies showing 3x higher engagement and 2x better problem-solving capabilities.
Read this if:
You've noticed money motivates less over time
You're ready to trade carrots and sticks
Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Simon Sinek
Sinek's book shows that companies with a clear purpose report 30% higher innovation and 40% higher employee retention.
Read this if:
Your team knows what to do but not why they do it
Your vision statements sound like everyone else's
You want to build loyalty, not just compliance
Time Smart by Ashley Whillans
Research shows 80% of working adults feel time-scarce, regardless of actual hours worked. Whillans' research reveals something counterintuitive: time stress often has less to do with hours and more to do with how we value them.
Most provocative finding? People who prioritize time over money report 40% higher life satisfaction, yet we consistently make choices that prioritize money over time.
Read this if:
You're ready to stop trading life for productivity
That’s my list, what is yours? You know me, I’m always eager to get good book recommendations. What have you been reading the past month?