When I ask other leaders what books have helped them the most in their life and leadership I have to preface it with: “Yes, I know the Bible… But what else has benefited you or even enhanced your understanding of the Bible to impact your life and leadership?”

So, recently someone asked me a similar question:  “What books have carried you through COVID?”

My answers may just surprise you…

Every morning I start my day the exact same way

• 24oz glass of water to rehydrate.
• Turn on the coffee pot.
• Stretch.
• Then read and drink coffee.
• I read my Bible (currently I’m trying to read the 4 gospels each month in a different translation – it’s about 3 chapters a day)
• I read a chapter from an ancient book. (Currently Confessions by St. Augustine)
• I read a chapter from a contemporary book. (Currently Managing Leadership Anxiety by Steve Cuss)

And then I use the following books:

1. Radical Wisdom by Regi Campbell

This book was gifted to me by our friends at Northpoint Ministries and it is the gift that keeps on giving.  Regi speaks to guys in the daily reader and deals with the highs and lows of business, following Jesus and leading a family. 

One page a day, but the wisdom will give you something to chew on for the next 24 hours.  I’ve given out several copies and I usually end up sharing a quote or two of his each week on social media.  This is such an encouragement. 

1. A 10 Year Journal

I heard Pastor Craig Groeschell mention a 10 Year Journal on a podcast last year and I thought I’d give it a try.. And I absolutely love it. 

For those who hate journaling because it requires to much time and feels like a diary, this tool makes it short and simple.  It forces me to sum up the previous day in a few sentences which give tremendous perspective to all that is going on. 

I can’t wait to see how this develops over the next 9 years as I’m able to look back at what God has taught me.

1. The Full Focus Planner by Michael Hyatt

If you are not listening to Michael Hyatt & Company you are missing out.

His podcast, blogs, and books are so helpful in planning out your day and life.  This planner helps you maximize your day and prioritize your time before someone else does it for you. 

I’ve been using this planner for a few years now and convinced many of our team to give it a try as well.  I find we all are so much more efficient.  When I sit down with my planner on Sunday PM and plan out the next week… it takes the guess work out of each day and allows to to accomplish what matters most. 

Those are mine… What about yours?  I would love to hear what books are getting you through this time.