Quote for the week
“Not all readers are leaders, but all leaders are readers.” — Harry S. Truman
Read, Learn, Lead: 5 Must-Read Books for Women Leaders
As you sip your Monday morning coffee, take a moment to reflect on this: the best leaders don’t just lead—they learn. For women in leadership, the journey is often paved with unique challenges, and one of the best ways to navigate them is by learning from those who’ve been there before. Reading provides knowledge and wisdom, offering insights into what works, what doesn’t, and how to forge your path.
Great leaders don’t reinvent the wheel; they emulate, innovate, and inspire. If you’re looking to sharpen your leadership skills, here are five must-read books that every woman leader should have on her shelf:
- Atomic Habits by James Clear
Small habits lead to big results. This book is a game-changer for leaders who want to build productive habits and break the ones holding them back. Clear’s practical approach to behavior change helps leaders stay consistent, focused, and resilient in their pursuit of success.
- My Life in Full by Indra Nooyi
A must-read for aspiring women leaders, this memoir by former PepsiCo CEO Indra Nooyi is a powerful account of balancing ambition with family, making tough decisions, and redefining leadership. Her journey from Chennai to the C-suite is an inspiring lesson in perseverance and vision.
- Dare to Lead by Brené Brown
Leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about courage, vulnerability, and connection. Brené Brown explores how leaders can create workplaces where people feel safe to innovate, take risks, and lead with authenticity.
- Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg
This modern classic highlights women’s challenges in leadership and provides actionable advice on how to seize opportunities, negotiate better, and build a supportive network. It’s an empowering read for any woman looking to step up in her career.
- The Leader Who Had No Title by Robin Sharma
Leadership isn’t about position—it’s about mindset. This book teaches that anyone, regardless of title or rank, can be a leader by adopting the right habits and approach. It’s an excellent guide for women who want to make an impact at every level.
Read, Reflect, Rise
Leadership is a continuous journey of growth and learning. By reading and absorbing the lessons of great leaders before us, we can shape our paths with greater clarity and confidence. So, what book is on your reading list this month? Please share.