While we’re not expecting you to have an abundance of time on your hands right now – running a business leaves little spare moments, even in lockdown – it is still important to find a way to switch off. Particularly as our work/life boundaries become increasingly blurred.
Luckily, there is an activity that conforms to social distancing rules, will expand your mind and is scientifically proven to alleviate anxiety – reading.
We’ve collated an isolation reading list for business owners which goes beyond your typical self-help business books. We hope these reads will inspire, educate and encourage you in what, for many of us, are extremely tough times.
Make Your Bed – William H. McRaven
Admiral William H. McRaven shares the philosophies he learned during his 37 years as a Navy SEAL, and demonstrates how taking charge of the small things in life can have a dramatic impact on the world around you. This New York Times bestseller is full of optimism, practical advice and encouragement to help you through life’s darker moments.
Crisis Economics: A Crash Course in the Future of Finance – Nouriel Roubini
During times of crisis, it can be useful to look to lessons from the past. Drawing on both the 2008 financial crash and examples of economic crises throughout history, Nouriel Roubini explains why our economic systems are inherently prone to collapse.
With input from New York Times writer and professor of economic history Stephen Mihm, this book provides a fascinating examination of the fragility of free-market capitalism.
The Multi-Hyphen Method – Emma Gannon
In The Multi-Hyphen Method, writer, broadcaster and podcast host Emma Gannon explores how the digital age has freed us from the notion of a single career path. At a time when many business owners are pivoting their services due to lockdown, this book teaches us to embrace an idiosyncratic career, redefine success and spend more time doing what we love.
Leaders Eat Last – Simon Sinek
Simon Sinek, bestselling author of Start with Why, explores how to foster confidence and cooperation in a modern workforce. As business owners across the country are being forced to make difficult decisions to keep their companies above water, this book offers the inspiration you need to continue supporting and motivating your team towards a collective goal.
How to Fail – Elizabeth Day
Inspired by her podcast of the same name, Elizabeth Day explores how failure in work, life and love can teach us lessons that shape us for the better. In this hopeful and uplifting book, Day shares stories from her own life – from being unable to conceive children to getting stuck in a professional rut – and discusses how our failures can be a step on the journey to a different kind of success.
Little Black Book – Otegha Uwagba
The founder of Women Who, Otegha Uwagba, shares her tips on how to get ahead as a woman in the creative industries. From establishing a personal brand to networking successfully. This book includes contributions from a host of inspiring people, including author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and The Gentlewoman’s editor in chief, Penny Martin.
Rebel Ideas: The Power of Diverse Thinking – Matthew Syed
Journalist, author, broadcaster and professional table tennis player, Matthew Syed argues that the only way to solve the world’s most pressing problems is to harness the power of diverse group thinking. Drawing on a wide range of examples from across the world, this book encourages business owners to move beyond individualism towards collective creativity.
Always Day One – Alex Kratrowitz
Coined by Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos, ‘Day One’ is code for the moment when a company first begins, when innovation and creativity takes precedence over bureaucracy and stasis.
In Always Day One, Alex Kratowitz delves into the philosophies of tech giants including Facebook, Microsoft and Amazon, uncovering the link between their continuing success and the culture and leadership that drives their innovation.
This book is aimed at ambitious entrepreneurs looking to compete with the most successful companies of our time.
Factfulnes – Hans Rosling
Hans Rosling questions what we think we know in Factfulness, a book that demonstrates how misunderstanding can warp our world view and reminds us that, when in doubt, we should look for the facts.
As it turns out, the world is often a better place than we imagine, making this book an uplifting read in our current climate.
