This curated guide is designed to help career changers and women in leadership reimagine their work, life, and impact. By exploring these transformative books, you can uncover fresh perspectives, identify your unique strengths, overcome limitations, and lead with greater intention and impact.
How to Use This Tool:
Choose Your Focus Area:
Select one of the five categories below based on where you want to grow or shift your mindset.Start Reading:
Begin with a book that resonates most with your current goals or challenges.Reflect and Apply:
After reading each book, journal your insights or discuss key takeaways with a mentor, coach, or peer.
Implement at least one actionable idea from the book into your life or work.
Revisit Regularly:
Growth is ongoing—return to this list as your goals and perspectives evolve.
The Master Reading List
1. Figuring Out What's Next for Your Work and Life
Books to help you clarify your goals, pivot effectively, and design a life you love:
Designing Your Life by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans
Pivot by Jenny Blake
Career Clarity by Lisa Lewis Miller
Reinventing You by Dorie Clark
Career Rehab by Kanika Tolver
Reflective Question: What do I want my next chapter to look like, and how can I design it intentionally?
2. Uncovering What Makes You Unique
Books to help you identify your strengths, passions, and purpose:
Body of Work by Pamela Slim
StrengthsFinder 2.0 by Tom Rath
Born For This by Chris Guillebeau
Finding Your North Star by Martha Beck
The Road Back to You by Ian Morgan Cron
Reflective Question: What are my unique strengths, and how can I align them with my purpose?
3. Freeing Yourself from Limitations and Fear
Books to inspire courage, creativity, and self-acceptance:
Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
The Surrender Experiment by Michael A. Singer
The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown
Girl, Wash Your Face by Rachel Hollis
You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero
Reflective Question: What limiting beliefs or fears do I need to release to step into my full potential?
4. Evolving Into Who You Were Meant to Be
Books that inspire personal growth, authenticity, and living on purpose:
Becoming by Michelle Obama
On Purpose by Tanya Dalton
Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes
Feeding the Soul by Tabitha Brown
More Than Enough by Elaine Welteroth
Reflective Question: How can I live more authentically and align my actions with my true self?
5. Leading With Greater Impact
Books to help you grow as a leader and inspire others:
Playing Big by Tara Mohr
Dare to Lead by Brené Brown
What Got You Here Won’t Get You There by Marshall Goldsmith
Quiet Leadership by David Rock
Start With Why by Simon Sinek
Reflective Question: How can I lead in a way that amplifies my impact while staying true to my values?
Tips for Maximizing This Tool:
Start a Book Club: Collaborate with peers or colleagues to discuss these books and share insights.
Track Your Progress: Use a journal or digital tracker to note which books you’ve read and their key takeaways.
Pair Reading with Coaching: Partner with a coach to discuss how these books can support your personal or professional growth.
Begin your journey of transformation today. Pick one book from this list, and let it guide you toward a more intentional, impactful life and career!
