#2 Leadership Book: The Leadership Challenge

Of leadership books I end up recommending, as well as those I end up referring to myself in leadership situations, one of two books I am most likely to name is The Leadership Challenge, 3rd Edition by James M. Kouzes and Barry Z. Posner. Based on cross-cultural research and practical experience, the guidance in this book is important for those who are new to leadership positions and those who’ve been in leadership for a long time and want to improve their effectiveness.

Kouzes and Posner outline five key areas of leadership, all of which can be learned and measured. Some people may more naturally do these functions when they interact with others, but we can all learn and develop and improve. The categories are, in one sense, common sense — but, as Will Rogers said, “Common sense ain’t common.” We can all learn, grow, and develop — and this system identifies key areas to which leaders need to pay attention.
Along with the book itself, I recommend the corresponding workbook: The Leadership Challenge Workbook. Reading a book can be inspiring, but you’re far more likely to put the ideas into practice by engaging in the act of writing down your goals, insights, plans, and results. I’ve also found the journal that accompanies this series helpful, especially after finishing the workbook: The Leadership Challenge Journal : Reflections on Becoming a Better Leader