I didn’t come across any amazing new reads or podcasts to recommend this month—so instead, I’m sharing something (hopefully) even better: my all-time favorite nonfiction books. These are the titles I come back to again and again, and the ones I recommend most to friends, clients, and anyone looking to improve how they work, think, or live. Part of why I love recommending them is that they’re still mostly under the radar. None of them are mainstream hits you’ve likely already read or heard of, but each one has earned a permanent spot on my shelf. If you’re looking for ways to expand your perspective, check them out.

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Performance – The best books on how to be more effective

The Compound Effect – Darren Hardy 

I reread this book every 1-2 years. It’s never on any “top recommended” lists despite being a bestseller, but it should be. Its core message reminds me to keep compounding my efforts, whether in work, investments, or relationships. I read this whenever I need to reset and refocus, and it always reinspires me to be more disciplined and intentional in how I approach life.

The Daily Stoic – Ryan Holiday

I often start and end my days with this book. It breaks down the three branches of Stoicism—perception, action, and will—with daily passages from ancient Stoics like Marcus Aurelius and Seneca, paired with a short explanation. For me, it’s a meditative text, and I turn to specific passages in times of high stress or anxiety (which, honestly, is fairly often).

Essentialism – Greg McKeown

This is the one book I remind myself of at least once a quarter. As someone who often wants to do everything and do it all at the same time, this book grounds me by reinforcing the importance of prioritizing the few things that truly matter. I also love and think a lot about its insert art, which alone summarizes the book’s “essentialism” principle—putting energy into one thing gets you a lot farther than exerting energy on a lot of different things. Effortless, also by McKeown, is also another favorite for similar reasons.

Leadership and Understanding Others – Non-leadership books that I recommend to every leader (or person who wants to get stuff done) 

The Art of Gathering – Priya Parker

This is my go-to recommendation for anyone who wants to bring people together effectively, whether it’s a major conference or an intimate dinner party or team meeting. It’s written by a former conflict-resolution negotiator and breaks down the principles behind meaningful gatherings. I revisit this every time I prepare for my classes, client offsites, or even my annual holiday party.

Power – Jeffrey Pfeffer

I read Pfeffer’s book long before meeting him at the Stanford GSB, and it dramatically shaped my understanding of what makes someone impactful (note: impact isn’t always synonymous with being a “good leader” or well-liked). Warning, this book, and Pfeffer’s class, can be polarizing. Still, it’s one of the most useful books I’ve read on how power works—whether I like it or not.

Geopolitics and the World  – To understand the “why” behind world events

Prisoners of Geography – Tim Marshall

I love books written by journalists because they’re usually well-researched and well-written. I love this book even more because it explains why the world is the way it is through maps. Each chapter dives into different world regions, highlighting the geographic advantages—mountain borders, coastlines, resource access—that some countries have over others. Fun fact: I just got the children’s illustrated version of this book, and I love it just as much.

Perspective and Life – Books I turn to regularly turn to when stuck or need to reset

Tiny Beautiful Things – Cheryl Strayed

All my friends know this is my favorite book to gift because 1) it offers something meaningful for everyone; 2) it beautifully captures the wild differences and deep similarities we all share; and 3) Cheryl Strayed is an incredible, gorgeous writer, and this collection of her letters from her Dear, Sugar column always pierces my heart.

The Almanac of Naval Ravikant – Eric Jorgenson

I revisit Naval’s ideas whenever I need to refocus. This collection distills his thoughts on wealth and happiness—curated from interviews and tweets – and reads like a smart, successful mentor giving you solicited advice on life. Naval has unparalleled work ethic, focus, and clarity, all of which inspire me. I’m also always reminded of Jorgenson’s genius and generosity in creating this book and making it free! Note: I recently listened to Naval’s latest podcast interview, which I didn’t love for reasons I explain here. But this original book is still a favorite.

These are the books I reach for when I’m stuck, curious, or just trying to be a little better. If any of them resonate—or if you have one you think I should add—send it my way.