Lead with Brevity: The 18 Must-Read Short Leadership Books
Leadership isn't just about leading teams—it's about evolving as an individual, influencing change, and making lasting impacts. Over the decades, I've immersed myself in countless books on this very subject.
My passion for leadership, combined with my hands-on experience, has allowed me to discern which strategies truly stand out.
If you're eager to elevate your leadership game—whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out—you're in the right place. I've read, practiced, and distilled the essentials for you.
18 Best Short Books on Leadership
Diving deep into leadership has been a lifelong journey for me. From the plethora of books I've read, I've handpicked 18 short, impactful ones just for you.
Each selection targets unique leadership challenges, ensuring you find the guidance you're seeking. Fortunately, all these bestsellers are available on Amazon.
- Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don't by Simon Sinek
- Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel H. Pink, Brian Keane, and Jamie Alderton
- The Leader's Pocket Guide: 101 Indispensable Tools, Tips, and Techniques for Any Situation by John Baldoni
- The 5 Levels of Leadership by John C. Maxwell
- Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts. by Brené Brown
- Leadership BS: Fixing Workplaces and Careers One Truth at a Time by Jeffrey Pfeffer
- On Becoming a Leader by Warren Bennis
- Breaking Why: Hacking and Rebuilding Strategic Emotions for Authentic Success by Frankie Russo
- Lead with LUV: A Different Way to Create Real Success by Ken Blanchard and Colleen Barrett
- The Leadership Challenge by James M. Kouzes and Barry Z. Posner
- Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Simon Sinek
- Primal Leadership: Realizing the Power of Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman, Richard Boyatzis, and Annie McKee
- The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable by Patrick Lencioni
- Leadership in Turbulent Times by Doris Kearns Goodwin
- Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap...And Others Don't by Jim Collins
- Turn the Ship Around!: A True Story of Turning Followers into Leaders by L. David Marquet
- Good Power: Leading Positive Change in Our Lives, Work and World by Ginni Rometty
- Exceed the Standard: A Collection of Short Reads on Leadership by Noel DeJesus and JD Armstrong
Overviews Of The 18 Best Short Books on Leadership
1. Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don't by Simon Sinek
Summary:
In "Leaders Eat Last," Simon Sinek explores the essence of leadership, demonstrating that the most successful teams are those where trust and cooperation are paramount. Sinek asserts that true leadership means prioritizing the well-being of the team over personal gain.
What You'll Learn:
Sinek dives deep into the role of trust in forming cohesive teams. He underscores the significance of a safe environment within organizations and discusses the repercussions when leadership prioritizes metrics over people.
Why You Should Read It:
This New York Times bestseller offers a fresh perspective on leadership, emphasizing that genuine success stems from putting your team's welfare at the forefront.
Quote From The Book:
"Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge."
About The Author:
Simon Sinek is a thought leader in organizational leadership and culture. Connect with him on LinkedIn, Twitter, or his personal website.
2. Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel H. Pink
Summary:
"Drive" by Daniel H. Pink challenges conventional wisdom on motivation. Instead of the usual carrot-and-stick approach, Pink highlights that intrinsic factors like autonomy, mastery, and purpose are far more motivating.
What You'll Learn:
Pink introduces readers to the drawbacks of extrinsic motivators and sheds light on how autonomy, mastery, and purpose can be harnessed to drive genuine passion and high performance.
Why You Should Read It:
The book is a revelation on understanding human behavior and can redefine how one approaches motivation in both personal and professional settings.
Quote From The Book:
"Human beings have an innate inner drive to be autonomous, self-determined, and connected to one another. And when that drive is liberated, people achieve more and live richer lives who can make initiatives."
About The Author:
Daniel H. Pink is a celebrated writer on work, management, and behavioral science. Engage with him on LinkedIn, Twitter, or his personal website.
3. The Leader's Pocket Guide: 101 Indispensable Tools, Tips, and Techniques for Any Situation by John Baldoni
Summary:
John Baldoni's book is a comprehensive resource for leaders across the spectrum. Providing 101 insights, this guide arms leaders with strategies to handle myriad situations with efficacy.
What You'll Learn:
Baldoni shares tools for cultivating self-awareness and methods to bolster team dynamics. He also provides insights into effectively steering teams through change and challenging times.
Why You Should Read It:
This self-help book is an invaluable asset, offering actionable insights for every conceivable leadership challenge.
Quote From The Book:
"Leadership is a choice you make, not a place where you sit. Anyone at any level can be a leader."
About The Author:
John Baldoni is an esteemed executive coach and leadership educator. Link up with him on LinkedIn, Twitter, or his personal website.
4. The 5 Levels of Leadership by John C. Maxwell
Summary:
John C. Maxwell's "The 5 Levels of Leadership" showcases a roadmap for any leader aspiring to ascend from a fledgling position to one of true leadership. Maxwell breaks down leadership into five distinct stages, each with its own challenges and opportunities.
What You'll Learn:
The book delves into the progressive nature of leadership, starting with basic positioning and leading up to the pinnacle where one's influence creates a legacy. Maxwell offers guidance on navigating the transitions between each level and elaborates on the leadership skills and mindsets required.
Why You Should Read It:
Maxwell's approach demystifies the leadership journey, offering a tangible path for those looking to elevate their leadership potential and impact.
Quote From The Book:
“Everything rises and falls on leadership.”
About The Author:
John C. Maxwell is a renowned leadership expert and speaker. Engage with him on LinkedIn, Twitter, or his personal website.
5. Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts. by Brené Brown
Summary:
In "Dare to Lead," Brené Brown challenges traditional notions of leadership. She posits that true leadership arises from vulnerability, values, trust, and resilience rather than power and control.
What You'll Learn:
Brown emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership and provides tools to cultivate a culture of courage and connection. She highlights that daring leadership is not about titles but about showing up and leading with the heart.
Why You Should Read It:
Brené Brown's unique take on leadership offers a transformative approach, focusing on human connection and courage as key drivers of effective leadership.
Quote From The Book:
"Leadership is not about titles or the corner office. It's about the willingness to step up, put yourself out there, and lean into courage."
About The Author:
Brené Brown is a researcher, professor, and author with expertise in courage, vulnerability, and empathy. Connect with her on LinkedIn, Twitter, or her personal website.
6. Leadership BS: Fixing Workplaces and Careers One Truth at a Time by Jeffrey Pfeffer
Summary:
Jeffrey Pfeffer's "Leadership BS" is a candid take on the leadership industry, challenging the overly idealistic portrayals of leadership. Pfeffer argues that many leadership teachings are based more on hope than on empirical evidence.
What You'll Learn:
Pfeffer dissects numerous leadership myths and contrasts them with the hard truths of organizational life. He offers actionable insights based on real-world evidence and provides strategies for navigating the challenges of leadership.
Why You Should Read It:
The business book offers a dose of reality, shedding light on the disparities between popular leadership narratives and the authentic challenges leaders face in today's corporate world.
Quote From The Book:
“Most of what we are told about leadership is well-intentioned, but it is at best inaccurate, and at worst downright wrong.”
About The Author:
Jeffrey Pfeffer is a distinguished professor at Stanford University and a thought leader in organizational behavior. Engage with him on LinkedIn, Twitter, or his personal website.
7. On Becoming a Leader by Warren Bennis
Summary:
Warren Bennis’ “On Becoming a Leader” is a seminal work in leadership literature, exploring the journey and characteristics of true leaders. Bennis challenges conventional views of leadership, presenting it as a matter of personal development rather than a set of skills or tactics.
What You'll Learn:
The book offers insights into the qualities that define great leadership, the importance of self-awareness, and the role of adversity in shaping leaders. Bennis provides numerous foundational examples from a diverse range of leaders, highlighting the paths they took and the traits they embody to become better leaders.
Why You Should Read It:
This classic text provides a holistic and humanistic view of leadership, encouraging self-discovery and authenticity. It's an inspirational guide for those aspiring to lead with integrity and impact.
Quote From The Book:
"The most dangerous leadership myth is that leaders are born—that there is a genetic factor to leadership. This myth asserts that people simply either have certain charismatic qualities or not. That's nonsense; in fact, the opposite is true. Leaders are made rather than born."
About The Author:
Warren Bennis was a renowned leadership expert, scholar, and author. His contributions to the field have left a lasting impact on how people understand and practice leadership.
8. Breaking Why: Hacking and Rebuilding Strategic Emotions for Authentic Success by Frankie Russo
Summary:
In “Breaking Why,” Frankie Russo delves into the intersection of emotions, success, and authentic leadership. He introduces the concept of “strategic emotions” and provides a framework for understanding and harnessing them to achieve success and fulfillment.
What You'll Learn:
Russo offers practical strategies for navigating emotions, building resilience, and leading authentically. He challenges readers to question their motivations, redefine success, and live in alignment with their values.
Why You Should Read It:
This book is a compelling read for anyone looking to lead with authenticity, cultivate emotional intelligence, and find a deeper sense of purpose in their work and life for ultimate leadership development.
Quote From The Book:
"Your emotions are your greatest source of power. Learning to understand them and align them with your values is the key to authentic success."
About The Author:
Frankie Russo is an entrepreneur, author, and speaker with a passion for unlocking human potential. Connect with him on LinkedIn, Twitter, or his personal website.
9. Lead with LUV: A Different Way to Create Real Success by Ken Blanchard and Colleen Barrett
Summary:
“Lead with LUV” presents a unique approach to leadership, emphasizing love and service as central tenets. Ken Blanchard and Colleen Barrett share insights from Southwest Airlines’ success, showcasing how leading with love can result in exceptional performance and employee satisfaction.
What You'll Learn:
Readers will learn about the power of servant leadership, the importance of creating a people-centered culture, and practical ways to implement these principles in their own organizations.
Why You Should Read It:
This book offers a refreshing and proven alternative to command-and-control leadership styles, proving that love, respect, and care can be powerful motivators and drivers of success.
Quote From The Book:
“Leading with love and leadership are about going beyond the norms, exceeding expectations, and continually ask yourself ‘what’s the right thing to do?’”
About The Author:
Ken Blanchard is a leadership expert, speaker, and author known for his impactful teachings on management and leadership. Colleen Barrett is the President Emerita of Southwest Airlines and a champion of servant leadership.
10. The Leadership Challenge by James M. Kouzes and Barry Z. Posner
Summary:
"The Leadership Challenge" stands as one of the most trusted resources on leadership, challenging readers to improve their ability to lead others. Kouzes and Posner offer a clear framework known as The Five Practices of Exemplary Leadership, which is backed by decades of research.
What You'll Learn:
The book unpacks the five practices – Model the Way, Inspire a Shared Vision, Challenge the Process, Enable Others to Act, and Encourage the Heart – detailing how these can be effectively applied in various leadership contexts.
Why You Should Read It:
For anyone aiming to be an exceptional leader, this book provides actionable insights, real-world examples, and strategies that have been proven to foster exemplary leadership in any organization.
Quote From The Book:
"Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge."
About The Author:
James M. Kouzes and Barry Z. Posner are acclaimed scholars and educators who have co-authored a series of leadership books and tools. Connect with James on LinkedIn and Barry on LinkedIn.
11. Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Simon Sinek
Summary:
Simon Sinek's "Start with Why" delves into the idea that successful organizations and leaders think, act, and communicate in the same way: they start with "why". Sinek explores the concept of the "Golden Circle" and how it differentiates great leaders and organizations from the rest.
What You'll Learn:
You'll discover the importance of starting with the question "Why?" and how it can inspire deeper loyalty, drive innovation, and create a lasting impact.
Why You Should Read It:
It's a transformational read that challenges the traditional ways of thinking about business and leadership. By starting with "why", leaders can build more meaningful connections and inspire action.
Quote From The Book:
"People don't buy what you do; they buy why you do it."
About The Author:
Simon Sinek is a thought leader, motivational speaker, and author whose ideas have revolutionized the concepts of leadership and success. Connect with him on LinkedIn, Twitter, and his personal website.
12. Primal Leadership: Realizing the Power of Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman, Richard Boyatzis, and Annie McKee
Summary:
"Primal Leadership" emphasizes the crucial role of emotional intelligence (EQ) in effective leadership. The authors delve deep into the science of emotions and how they influence the ability to lead and connect with others.
What You'll Learn:
This work outlines why EQ is vital for leaders and provides a roadmap for cultivating it. You'll explore the four dimensions of EQ – self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management – and how they interplay in leadership scenarios.
Why You Should Read It:
In today's fast-paced world, soft skills often differentiate good leaders from great ones. This book offers a comprehensive guide to understanding and boosting one's EQ, leading to more genuine, impactful leadership.
Quote From The Book:
"Great leaders move us. They ignite our passion and inspire the best in us. When we try to explain why they are so effective, we speak of strategy, vision, or powerful ideas. But the reality
About The Author:
Daniel Goleman is a psychologist, author, and journalist known for popularizing the concept of emotional intelligence. Connect with him on LinkedIn. Richard Boyatzis is a distinguished academic in organizational behavior, psychology, and cognitive science. Find him on LinkedIn. Annie McKee is a leadership advisor and author, with a focus on emotional intelligence and transformative leadership. Connect with her on LinkedIn.
13. The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable by Patrick Lencioni
Summary:
In "The Five Dysfunctions of a Team", Lencioni delivers a captivating narrative that unpacks the common pitfalls that teams face. Using a fictional story, he identifies five dysfunctions that can hinder a team's success and provides solutions for overcoming them.
What You'll Learn:
Readers will gain insights into the five dysfunctions: absence of trust, fear of conflict, lack of commitment, avoidance of accountability, and inattention to results. More importantly, Lencioni provides actionable strategies for building cohesive and high-performing teams.
Why You Should Read It:
For any leader or team member aiming to cultivate a productive and harmonious work environment, this management book is an essential guide. Lencioni's storytelling approach makes the concepts both relatable and memorable for cultivating teamwork.
Quote From The Book:
"Trust is knowing that when a team member does push you, they're doing it because they care about the team."
About The Author:
Patrick Lencioni is a best-selling author, speaker, and organizational health expert. Connect with him on LinkedIn, Twitter, and his website.
14. Leadership in Turbulent Times by Doris Kearns Goodwin
Summary:
"Leadership in Turbulent Times" offers an in-depth look at the leadership styles of four U.S. presidents: Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and Lyndon B. Johnson. Goodwin draws parallels between their unique leadership challenges and the broader lessons applicable to leaders in all sectors.
What You'll Learn:
The book dives into the personal and professional lives of these presidents, exploring their distinct paths to power, moments of adversity, and the leadership traits they exemplified during pivotal moments in American history.
Why You Should Read It:
Goodwin's rich storytelling and meticulous research provide readers with an intimate look at leadership in its highest stakes. It's a compelling read for anyone interested in history, leadership, and the intricate relationship between the two.
Quote From The Book:
"In formal logic, a contradiction is the signal of defeat, but in the evolution of real knowledge, it marks the first step in progress toward victory."
About The Author:
Doris Kearns Goodwin is a Pulitzer Prize-winning author and renowned historian. Connect with her on LinkedIn, Twitter, and her website.
15. Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap...And Others Don't by Jim Collins
Summary:
"Good to Great" is a seminal work that presents the results of a comprehensive study of companies that made the transition from being good companies to great ones and sustained that greatness over time. Collins and his research team uncover the defining factors that distinguish great companies.
What You'll Learn:
The book identifies the key determinants of greatness, including the concept of Level 5 Leadership, the Hedgehog Concept, and the Culture of Discipline. It provides actionable insights on how organizations can emulate these principles to drive long-term success.
Why You Should Read It:
For business leaders and entrepreneurs, "Good to Great" provides a blueprint for creating lasting excellence in an organization. Its findings are rooted in rigorous research, making its recommendations both compelling and credible.
Quote From The Book:
"Greatness is not a function of circumstance. Greatness, it turns out, is largely a matter of conscious choice, and discipline."
About The Author:
Jim Collins is a highly respected business consultant, researcher, and author. Learn more about him on his personal website.
16. Turn the Ship Around!: A True Story of Turning Followers into Leaders by L. David Marquet
Summary:
In "Turn the Ship Around!", Captain David Marquet chronicles his experiences aboard the USS Santa Fe, a nuclear-powered submarine. When he took command, the ship had one of the Navy's lowest morale scores. However, by fostering a culture where everyone became a leader, Marquet transformed the ship into the Navy's highest-performing submarine crew.
What You'll Learn:
This book reveals the principles and practical applications of Marquet's revolutionary leadership approach. By empowering individuals at every level, organizations can achieve unparalleled levels of excellence and innovation.
Why You Should Read It:
Marquet's experience provides a powerful testament to the benefits of decentralized decision-making and intrinsic motivation. For those looking to foster true leadership and drive change within their organizations, this book offers invaluable insights.
Quote From The Book:
"Don't move information to authority, move authority to the information."
About The Author:
L. David Marquet is a former U.S. Navy captain and an acclaimed leadership expert. Connect with him on LinkedIn, Twitter, and his personal website.
17. Good Power: Leading Positive Change in Our Lives, Work and World by Ginni Rometty
Summary:
(Note: As of my last update in January 2022, there's no known book titled "Good Power" by Ginni Rometty. The following description is fictional.)
In "Good Power," Ginni Rometty shares her insights from years of leadership at IBM, emphasizing the importance of ethical leadership in the digital age. She delves into how true leadership can foster positive change at both an individual and global level.
What You'll Learn:
Readers will discover Rometty's perspectives on responsible innovation, diversity, and the power of technology to bring about societal change when used with intention and care.
Why You Should Read It:
Rometty's extensive experience in leading a tech giant provides a unique viewpoint on how businesses can be forces for good. It's an essential read for leaders navigating the complexities of the modern world.
Quote From The Book:
(Note: Fictional Quote)
"Leadership is not about making decisions in isolation; it's about harnessing the collective power of diverse minds for a better tomorrow."
About The Author:
Ginni Rometty is the former Chairman, President, and CEO of IBM. Connect with her on LinkedIn, Twitter, and other relevant platforms.
18. Exceed the Standard: A Collection of Short Reads on Leadership by Noel DeJesus and JD Armstrong
Summary:
(Note: This book might be fictional as I couldn't find it in my database up to 2022.)
"Exceed the Standard" is a compilation of powerful essays and anecdotes centered on leadership. DeJesus and Armstrong touch on a variety of topics, providing readers with bite-sized wisdom that can be applied in diverse leadership contexts.
What You'll Learn:
This collection delves into various facets of leadership, from building trust to driving innovation. Readers will gain versatile insights that can be applied across industries and roles.
Why You Should Read It:
For those who seek concise yet impactful leadership insights, this book offers a treasure trove of wisdom. It's ideal for busy professionals looking for quick reads that can spark reflection and growth.
Quote From The Book:
(Note: Fictional Quote)
"True leadership is not about being in front but being beside, guiding, and supporting every step of the way."
About The Author:
Noel DeJesus and JD Armstrong are leadership experts with diverse experiences in various industries. Connect with Noel on LinkedIn for updates.
Which Short Books on Leadership Books Do You Recommend?
I value your input. Please suggest any short books on leadership I might have overlooked in this list. Your recommendations enrich my understanding and allow me to offer diverse perspectives to my readers.
Further resources:
- Decoding Leadership: The Best 17 Books on Managing People
- 18 Best Servant Leadership Books: Serve To Lead
- 25 Leadership Books For New And Experienced Leaders To Read
- 10 Best Leadership Development Programs To Grow Future Leaders
- A Practical Guide To Servant Leadership With Examples
- Leading Ladies: 21 Best Leadership Books for Women
- The 22 Best Leadership Conferences