The summer holidays are the perfect time to catch up on unfinished reading. Whether you want to catch up on the latest bestseller, find inspiration or learn new skills, it’s always a good idea to pack a good book in your suitcase to read while exploring your destination or relaxing under the parasol by the sea or pool.
If you’re looking for the next book to sink your teeth into, you can choose from our recommendations. In this article, we present a selection of books that will keep you reading. Which one will you start with?
Table of contents:
- Motivate yourself with inspirational success stories
Business classics that never go out of fashion
Essential books about productivity
Current issues and new trends
For fans of police thrillers
Motivate yourself with inspirational success stories
Getting to know the people who have revolutionised the business world enables us to understand that they are human, they make mistakes and they think. In your moments of disconnection, an inspirational story could give you the idea you need for your business.
• Steve Jobs: The Genius Who Changed Our World
The book traces the career of one of the founders of Apple, from school-leaver to creator of one of the most influential technology companies with his partner Steve Wozniak, from the creation of the first personal computer to the launch of the iPad and iPhone. It explains very clearly how his talent and genius have revolutionised the way we communicate.
• Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of Nike (Philip Knight)
Be inspired by these lessons of entrepreneurial success from the founder of Nike. In this book, he describes the mistakes, struggles and sacrifices that he suffered before turning his ‘start-up’ into a world-famous company.
In connection with Nike, if you have a long flight ahead of you and feel like watching a film, we recommend ‘AIR’(2023). It explains how the contract signed by Michael Jordan and Nike revolutionised the world of sports advertising. It also has an impressive cast, including Ben Affleck, Matt Damon, Viola Davis and Jason Bateman.
Business classics that never go out of fashion
These are books that you may have already read, but that are worth re-reading because of their content, or that are on your wish-list. Use the holidays to re-read them or read them for the first time:
• ‘The monk who sold his Ferrari’ (Robin Sharma)
This is the story of a successful lawyer who, after suffering a setback, decides to leave his old life and luxury behind. He learns what really matters: the balance between personal, family and professional life, and how to live with purpose, passion and inner harmony.
• ‘Think and Grow Rich’ (Napoleon Hill)
The author presents a set of principles for achieving success and wealth, based on research into the habits and characteristics of successful people. His practical principles are applicable in both personal and professional settings and are useful tools for growth and success.
Essential books about productivity
Away from the worries and distractions of everyday life, and with the change of scenery that holidays provide, this is a good time to start working on new skills.
‘The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People’ (Stephen Covey)
The author teaches us how to improve our personal and professional effectiveness through seven habits. And above all, how to adapt to change and seize the opportunities that it brings.
• ‘Atomic habits’ (James Clear)
Acquire new healthy habits for your personal or professional life, making small changes in your daily life to achieve big improvements in the long term. The author provides practical strategies for creating good habits and breaking bad ones to achieve your goals.
Current issues and new trends
• ‘The Digital Experience Company’ (Alfonso de la Nuez)
Today, all businesses are “digital” to some extent, and most consumers find them by means of internet searches. The author focuses on identifying the keys to providing digital users with satisfying experiences, which in turn contributes to business growth.
• ‘Focus: Developing Mindfulness for Excellence’ (Daniel Goleman)
In a world where we are increasingly bombarded by external stimuli, maintaining our attention is more difficult than ever. In his latest publication, Daniel Goleman explains in a simple and entertaining way how to develop and maintain focus in order to improve and avoid distractions.
He is also the author of the bestseller ‘Emotional Intelligence’ (which we recommend you add to your list if you haven’t read it yet). He provides the keys to improving communication, increasing productivity, strengthening leadership and fostering a positive and collaborative working environment.
For fans of police thrillers
Summer nights just aren’t the same without a good thriller on your bedside table, to keep you hooked from the first line to the last.
• ‘A Wild Animal’ (Joël Dicker)
This is the latest novel from the Swiss author. This time he returns with a thriller that begins with a jewellery robbery in Geneva and revolves around an obsessive policeman, a couple of millionaires and a mysterious man. It’s sure to grip you from start to finish.
• ‘The Mountain King’ (Anders de la Motte)
The main character is Inspector Asker, who has to deal with the disappearance of the daughter of a wealthy Swedish family. If you are a fan of Nordic crime fiction, you will love this book.
Whether you prefer to read in digital or physical format, each of these books will prove an entertaining companion while travelling, on the beach or by the pool. Take advantage of the holidays to pick up that book you’ve been putting off, but which you know will give you valuable ideas to improve your business, and will inspire you to achieve your goals.
Have a great holiday and happy reading!