Books

My habit of reading really only started a few years ago through a self-directed education group. God helped me develop a love of reading. Recovering from a media saturated childhood and living in a media drenched society is not easy. I think the hardest part is thinking logically and not emotionally. We are bombarded with relativistic ideas everywhere in American culture. Rights, equality, and tolerance. We overlook the logic that rights must be taken away to protect the innocent, that equality must give way to fairness, and that tolerance of sin is unloving. There is absolute Truth, and you will need to put away your pride in order to grasp it.

Below is a list of most the books I have read over these years. I have added comments to both jog my own memory and provide guidance to other ambitious readers. I really have enjoyed learning the new concepts and seeing the new perspectives as I sift my way through these resources. These books have been invaluable as I strive to be better than I was yesterday. I have a list at least this long of books I still want to read! 

One disclaimer: You should not (nor logically can you) believe everything you read. I have learned, even in this short period of reading, you cannot accept everything that you read. Some will quite naturally contradict. The reader should use their judgment and the judgment of their mentors. Personally, I hold everything up against the bible and give God's word the ultimate authority. I try to remember: 

"All people are like grass, and their glory is like the flowers of the field. The grass withers and the flowers fall, because the breath of the Lord blows on them. Surely the people are grass. The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever." -Isaiah 40:6-8 

I hope you find my comments helpful in selecting your next fantastic read!

A more complete list can be viewed through my GoodReads page. Click "View" to the right of each book to read my review.

Top Book

The Bible

by God

The message really is simple and it is good news! God forgives you of all your sins, because Jesus lived a perfect life, died in our place, and rose to show that death has no power over us any more. We will live in heaven. This knowledge and trust in God prompts us to live different lives (though not perfectly). The process can be simplified into 
Sin => Grace => Faith => Works (the order is important). 
If you would like more explanation and discussion, contact me for a Bible 101 course.

Best read in the original text of Hebrew and Greek languages, but so far, I leave that heavy work to my pastor. My favorite translations:
New International Version (NIV 1984)
English Standard Version (ESV)
New King James Version (NKJV)

The International Children's Bible translation has been very helpful for teaching my children.

Faith

Reason to Believe: A Response to Common Objections to Christianity

by R. C. Sproul

For a non-Christian, this may give you further insight into the Christian faith. For a Christian, this is a great step toward knowing why you believe what you believe. If you enjoyed this book and want to dive deeper, check out "I Don't Have Enough Faith to be an Atheist" by Norman Geisler.

The Dream Giver           

by Bruce Wilkinson with Heather Kopp

Comforting; you're not in it alone. Puts the focus in the right place. God gives us dreams to pursue for His purpose. Many good reminders, but be careful not to take credit for you faith. It is all God's good work in us. We only have the choice to reject His guidance.

A Man After God's Own Heart: Devoting Your Life to What Really Matters       

by Jim George

This book discusses a man's priorities as related to his wife, children, church, work, and witnessing. All these tie into God's purpose for your life.

'I challenge you as I challenge myself: Seek God's help in fulfilling His purpose by reading your Bible, finding someone to disciple you, and desiring God's will with all your heart.'
-Jim George

This quote reminds me of a great movie. Where are you men of courage? Stand up, love your wife, lead your family, read diligently, serve others, take responsibility, pursue excellence and find your purpose.

I Don't Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist

by Norman L. Geisler with Frank Turek & David Limbaugh

I have really grown to appreciate this book and the practice of Christian apologetics. The book does set out to logically explain the basis of Christianity, to the point that it appears to be more illogical to be atheist than Christian. It conquers circular reasoning with inductive reasoning of the facts. It also keeps in mind that you cannot logic anyone to believe. If they simply don't want to, there's nothing left to discuss. If you are in question on Christianity and are willing to take an objective view of the facts, this book is for you. I do believe you will come to the same conclusion as Norman Geisler.

The Defense Never Rests: A Lawyer's Quest for the Gospel        

by Craig A. Parton

Excellent! This book is multifaceted. Craig Parton tells of his personal faith journey and relates it to Evangelicalism, Lutheranism, and apologetics. His search for Christ-centered worship is heart-felt. His stressing of the need for apologetics is inspiring. His law perspective on tough-minded (logical) apologetical work hits home. His insights into tender-minded (abstract) apologetics is intriguing. His thoughts on the future direction of Christianity in America keep me thinking. Top this off with a commentary on the divine worship service practices and in-depth meaning, and you have a most excellent Christian read. Highly recommended for Christians diving deeper into their spiritual journey.

The Theology of the Cross: Reflections on His Cross and Ours   

by Daniel W. Deutschlander

A little difficult to follow and understand in the beginning, but definitely worth the read. His explanation of God's love as related to the Greek word agape has made me read and re-read in order to better understand and remember his phenomenal key points. The chapters on example crosses really hits home as he explains specific crosses associated with different stages of life.

I'm a Christian Even at Work: The Ethics of Business and Economics   

by Jerry L. Poppe

In our capitalistic society a Christian must constantly curb the pursuit of profit by yielding to God's will. There are many questionable business practices in our world today, which the Christian should not take for granted, but thoroughly examine based on God's word. Pursuing a profit is not wrong, but we must keep this pursuit in check as we see the needs of others around us. This requires a strong trust in God to provide even though we, as Christians, are not able to capitalize on every worldly opportunity. Jerry Poppe looks at these topics from a number of different views and raises many questions, driving the reader to pursue the answers found in God's word.

It was really interesting to see how our current U.S. economic system contributes to the loss of community. And along with the loss of community comes the loss of commitment to my neighbor's well-being. A Christian will always look to serve, especially in business. The way of service is up the individual Christian to determine within the context of God's word. I caution that there is no clear cut approach on every issue. We must be careful not to wrongfully judge others actions, but always examine our own motives. 

I like how LIFE fits into this equation. We focus on serving others and building supportive communities of people. Awesome!

The Foolishness of God: The Place of Reason in the Theology of Martin Luther           

by Siegbert W. Becker

Very powerful read. Human reason is a servant of scripture. How much higher are God's thoughts than our thoughts. Whoa to the person that adds and subtracts from scripture to suite their own reason. We are to take God at His word and believe what He says. If we could prove each biblical teaching logically with our human minds, we would have no need for faith. Certainly we can use our God-given reason to correct other people's false logic (ex. like when they try to deny the historical accuracy of the bible), but when it comes to revealed knowledge of God in scripture (ex. Christ is both 100% God and 100% Man to work salvation for all mankind), we must subjugate our reason to God's glorious wisdom.

Lord Will Answer: A Daily Prayer Catechism           

by Edward A. Engelbrecht

This book gave great insights into Christian teachings and celebrations. This is an exerpt from one of the most impactful Christian seasons for me, lent (and Easter):

The word lent has its origin in the same root as one of the German words for "spring," Lenz. As nature awakens from the death of winter, so the Christian finds newness of life in Christ, rising from sin's death.

During the 40 days of Lent, God's baptized people cleanse their hearts through the discipline of Lent: repentance, prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Lent is a time in which God's people prepare with joy for the paschal feast (Easter). It is a time in which God renews His people's zeal in faith and life. It is a time in which we pray that we may be given the fullness of grace that belongs to the children of God.

Being a Christian Husband: A Biblical Perspective

by Colin Hamer

I found this book less helpful than a good bible study, but provides a good starting point for discussion. Gives good reminders and a different perspective. Basically, follow Christ's example. Much harder than it sounds!

Reference Ephesians 5:25-33

25 Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her 26 to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, 27 and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. 28 In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. 29 After all, no one ever hated his own body, but he feeds and cares for it, just as Christ does the church-- 30 for we are members of his body. 31 “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.” 32 This is a profound mystery-- but I am talking about Christ and the church. 33 However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.

Family

4 Days to a Forever Marriage     

by Gary & Norma Smalley

This short workbook has simple steps and valuable insights, but be prepared to roll up your sleeves and work (which is the only way that I know to make a marriage work). 

The DNA of Relationships     

by Dr. Gary Smalley

Find your core fear, take responsibility, rewire your hot-buttons, understand Godly self-care, reduce stress, communicate, and find win-win solutions. 

Love & Respect: The Love She Most Desires; The Respect He Desperately Needs     

by Emerson Eggerichs

This book has made me very thankful for the woman I married. The progression of thought throughout the book makes so much sense. First, stop the crazy cycle (negative reaction); then, start the energizing cycle (positive actions); then, discover the secret of continuous motivation in the reward cycle (unconditional actions). If you are married or plan to be married, this is a must read.

For Men Only: A Straightforward Guide to the Inner Lives of Women    

by Shaunti Feldhahn with Jeff Feldhahn

Recommend for men only obviously. Things your significant other already assumes you know. The last couple chapters really hit me. Jeff describes the pressures that women are under in our society today and how I can come to my wife's rescue. The read was really inspiring. I am very blessed indeed.

The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts     

by Gary D. Chapman

Very insightful. If you have ever tried to show someone how much you care and gotten little to no response, you might be speaking a love language they don’t understand. If you want to communicate love effectively or more efficiently, this book is a great place to start. I found it helpful not only with my wife, but with my children as well.

A Thomas Jefferson Education: Teaching a Generation of Leaders…    

by Oliver DeMille

DeMille stresses mentoring with classical works as the ideal education in which students learn how to think. This foundation of education can be utilized in any profession. Before reading this book I saw little need for liberal arts education, but the foundational principals of thinking/problem solving with this type of education is useful for everyone. This book also lays out how to begin to educate yourself with the mentors and classics model.

Shepherding a Child's Heart   

by Tedd Tripp

Get to the heart of the matter. Trying to correct only behavior is like hacking at the leaves on the tree. Get to the roots, the heart of your child. True parenting takes discipline and sacrifice. We are all under God's authority, but have different roles. Are you teaching your children to be disobedient? Are you preparing your children to be rebellious in their teenage years? What if you could save yourself some of this grief by implementing some key principles? Would it be worth it? What if you could raise your child in an environment of open communication and trust? This is a must read for any parent striving to give their children the best of life, family, and faith.

Whale Done! : The Power of Positive Relationships           

by Kenneth Blanchard with Thad Lacinak, Chuck Tompkins, & Jim Ballard

Typical feedback on work completed is either "nothing" or "negative". This book helps explain the "redirect" and "positive" approaches used both at work and in the home. I am still skeptical about the redirect response, but I will definately try it out. My natural inclination is to show lots of attention to wrong behavior in order to correct the error. I can see the positive approach being very affective for one of my daughters, but we will see.

Wild at Heart: Discovering the Secret of a Man's Soul      

by John Eldredge

I'm told, "If you have boys, are a boy, or know a boy, you should read this book." Agreed. I think it is an excellent discussion starter; very helpful for those men less apt to talk on meaningful topics. Definitely appeals to the man's heart and also gives helpful insight into the woman's heart (my wife agrees).
Overall a good read, but I did find a few spots I was hesitant about. Early on in the book, I was turned off by the way he portrayed churches and the leaders in a negative light. His point is to avoid putting up a false front, which I fully agree with, but the way he expresses his ideas are pretty motive assigning. I feel he may take Christian freedom a little too far in following man's impulses and he does not fully credit the Holy Spirit for the creation of faith in an individual. Our natural tendency is at polar opposites to God's will. We do not choose to follow God, because it is impossible for us. God must work faith within us and our only choice is to reject what God has given.
He does focus more on the New Man who is living for Christ and seems to miss (or does not cover in enough detail) the dichotomy with the Old, naturally sinful Man. This is the battle raging within each Christian. God is never pleased with our Old Man, but sees only the New Man through Christ's blood. [Ref. Romans 7:7-25]
I did very much enjoy the insight into how male and female traits show different sides to God's nature as both were made in the image of God. Also very motivational toward finding your true purpose in life. Extremely helpful in forcing yourself to ask some deep, truly meaningful questions often skipped over in the rush of living.

Heidi        

by Johanna Spyri

From the youth classics category in A Thomas Jefferson Education.

I was compelled to put this on my reading list as some of you may have young readers at home or be looking to foster the love of reading in a youth. I personally wish that I would have read these youth classics when I was younger! I listened to this book (http://www.booksshouldbefree.com) as a way to relate to my daughters who were reading it for a home school discussion. They seem to get a lot more excited about books when they have parents that share in their joy and help them dig a little deeper to learn some very valuable lessons.

What surprised me were the excellent lessons in prayer, sin, guilt, repentance, forgiveness, and God's grace, all wrapped up in a delightful story of a selfless young girl who made a dramatic positive impact in many people's lives.

Helen Keller: The Story of My Life       Helen Keller

From the youth classics category in A Thomas Jefferson Education.

I was compelled to put this on my reading list as some of you may have young readers at home or be looking to foster the love of reading in a youth. I personally wish that I would have read these youth classics when I was younger! I listened to this book (http://www.booksshouldbefree.com) as a way to relate to my daughters who were reading it for a home school discussion. They seem to get a lot more excited about books when they have parents that share in their joy and help them dig a little deeper to learn some very valuable lessons.

Helen Keller is very reflective in her thoughts, even as she wrote this book before finishing college.

Freedom

1913        

by Oliver DeMille

Oliver DeMille has provided useful insight into a major, but relatively unknown turning point in U.S. history. He explains how a few key events, which began in 1913, have led to our current national distress. DeMille also lays out practical solutions to turn our nation’s future in a positive direction. This book is a call for the American people to refocus on our founding principles, accept personal accountability, and once again, lead the world with a truly free society.

The Coming Aristocracy

by Oliver DeMille

The answer is not red or blue; it’s personal responsibility and accountability. The change needs to come from the people. DeMille promotes the mini-factory model as a key step to help America get back to the original founding principals. This solution will help fix a lot of the problems plaguing the current American culture.

Leadership & Liberty: Pieces of the Puzzle

by Chris Brady & Orrin Woodward

A compilation of articles on a variety of topics.

The Federalist   

by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, John Jay, & J. R. Pole

The Federalist Papers (correctly known as The Federalist) are a series of 85 articles advocating the ratification of the United States Constitution. Seventy-seven of the essays were published serially in The Independent Journal and The New York Packet between October 1787 and August 1788 . A compilation of these and eight others, called The Federalist, was published in 1788 by J. and A. M’Lean.
The Federalist Papers serve as a primary source for interpretation of the Constitution, as they outline the philosophy and motivation of the proposed system of government. The authors of the Federalist Papers wanted to both influence the vote in favor of ratification and shape future interpretations of the Constitution. According to historian Richard Morris, they are an “incomparable exposition of the Constitution, a classic in political science unsurpassed in both breadth and depth by the product of any later American writer.”

The United States Constitution        

This goes hand in hand with The Federalist.

The Declaration of Independence of The United States of America       

Good reminder of why the United States exists.

The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire   

by Edward Gibbon

This was very interesting to me. It really struck me that there is nothing new under the sun. We should dive into history to avoid making the same mistakes. Five attributes of the Roman Empire at the time of it’s fall:

1.      A mounting love of show and luxury (affluence)

2.      A widening gap between the very rich and the very poor

3.      An obsession with sex

4.      Freakishness in the arts, masquerading as originality

5.      An increased desire to live off of the state

Sound familiar?

A Whack on the Side of the Head: How You Can Be More Creative        

by Roger von Oech

From Rascal: Discernment category.

Remove mental locks to open up a whole new set of possibilities. There is a place for analysis and logic, but not when generating new and unique ideas.

Remember, in the end, a whole slew of great ideas means nothing if not acted upon.

Friendship

How To Win Friends And Influence People, Revised Edition        

by Dale Carnegie

Fantastic book in human relations. Applicable for everyone.

Personality Plus

by Florence Littauer

Everyone should read this book. It is very insightful and it changed my view of other people. I can relate much better to other personality types. I am now trying to utilize my personality strengths to the fullest and minimize my personality weaknesses.

How to Make or Break a Friendship

by Stephen Davey

Davey uses short stories to hit home the principle base of friendship. I particularly enjoyed the example set by David and Jonathan.

The Power of Meeting New People    

by Debra Fine

This book kicked off my love of reading, starting just a couple years ago. (I can't believe I almost forgot about it.) My brother lent this book to me as we both recognized this was a key area in which I needed improvement. Debra has a way of making other people feel less intimidating and really encourages you to take the initiative. She gives practical examples and easy steps to start off in the right direction.

Following (Leadership)

Launching A Leadership Revolution:Mastering the Five Levels of Influence   

by Orrin Woodward & Chris Brady

Anyone who is in any leadership position needs to read this book! This book is used anywhere from corporate executive training to college course material. But my personal preference is a personal self-directed education. This book is part of the monthly LLR subscription series provided by LIFE. The LLR subscription also includes (2) audio CD's and (1) DVD each month that deal with a range of leadership topics. If you are interested in subscribing or just have questions about the material, feel free to contact either myself or another LIFE representative.

RESOLVED: 13Resolutions for LIFE

by Orrin Woodward

I used this book often for fixing my own problems and helping others find answers for their own life challenges. Orrin’s 13 resolutions give guidance to the foundational topics that face every person. I could list this book under any category, but I will just list it once here. If you want to make positive changes in your life, read this book. If you want to make a significant impact in other people’s lives, read this book.

This is the basis of the 90 day Mental Fitness Challenge product. Check it out at  www.mental-fitness-challenge.com

Rascal: Making a Difference ByBecoming an Original Character         

by Chris Brady

Make sure to take the Rascalinity test! Comes with an awesome recommended reading list dependent on how you score.

How to Have Confidence and Power in Dealing with People        

by Leslie T. Giblin

Accept, approve, and appreciate! Make someone's day. Don't hold back praise for the specific actions and attributes you value in others. 

       LIFE: Living Intentionally for Excellence     

  by Chris Brady & Orrin Woodward

So many truths on each page. I will keep coming back to this book again and again.

Voyage of a Viking        

by Tim Marks

This book has made me thankful for my many blessings; reminded me to stay humble; and encouraged me to take more action. Tim Marks provides insight into the choleric personality (action orientated) as he tells both touching and humorous stories from his life.

Talent Is Overrated: What Really Separates World-Class Performers from… 

by Geoff Colvin

Dispels the myths of success and reveals the true power of deliberate practice. Now you've just got to figure out if you want to do what it takes to be a top performer. 

Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin

Edited by Frank Pine

A great historical example with respect to finances, business, resolutions, character, hard work, humility, and societal impact.

The Serving Leader: Five Powerful Actions that Will Transform Your Team, Your Business, and Your Community  
by Ken Jennings with John Stahl-Wert & Ken Blanchard

Very good at incorporating biblical principles into the leadership model.

Leading Leaders to Leadership: 21 Secrets for Leveraging Your Way to Greater Success 

by John Fuhrman

This book brought a lot of the leadership concepts together for me.

Eat That Frog!: 21 Great Ways to Stop Procrastinating and…    

by Brian Tracy

Wow! So many good habits that need immediate implementation!

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People       

by Stephen R. Covey

Best quotes by habit:

1. Be Proactive

In the great literature of all progressive societies, love is a verb. Reactive people make it a feeling. They're driven by feelings...Proactive people subordinate feelings to values.

2. Begin with the end in mind

It's incredibly easy to get caught up in an activity trap, in the busy-ness of life, to work harder and harder at climbing the ladder of success only to discover it's leaning against the wrong wall.

3. Put first things first

You [should] think effectiveness with people and efficiency with things.

You can't talk your way out of a problem you behave yourself into.

4. Think win/win

So often the problem is in the system, not in the people.

5. Seek first to understand...then to be understood

You will never be able to truly step inside another person, to see the world as he sees it, until you develop the pure desire, the strength of personal character, and the positive Emotional Bank Account, as well as the emphatic listening skills to do it.

6. Synergize

That person [that is truly effective] values the differences because those differences add to his knowledge, to his understanding of reality. When we're left to our own experiences, we constantly suffer from a shortage of data.

7. Sharpen the saw (renewal)

Your physical health affects your mental health; your spiritual strength affects your social/emotional strength. As you improve in one dimension, you increase your ability in other dimensions as well.

The SPEED of Trust: The One Thing That Changes Everything     

by Stephen M.R. Covey with Stephen R. Covey & Rebecca R. Merrill

Strengthening the 4 cores and utilizing the 13 behaviors is vital in any environment. Keep your motive in check, especially when establishing self-trust, to make sure you are living for Christ and not yourself. I found this book particularly useful for work relationships.

Sam Walton: Made In America           

by Sam Walton with John Huey

Very enjoyable read. It really shows what a man of action and character can accomplish. I wonder if all the Wal-Mart haters I've met have read this book. Wouldn't you want to hear it from the man, himself? By the end of the book, I was very thankful God gave Sam enough time to complete the contents of this book. For me to try and summarize his story with so many embedded principles would not do it justice. This is one of those books that you just have to read it for yourself.

Live Learn Lead to Make a Difference           

by Don Soderquist

The former Senior Vice Chairman of Walmart dives into the heart of ethics and integrity in a leadership role. Excellent Christian perspective and powerful examples from his experiences with Sam Walton and others.

Ready, Begin! Practical Strategies for Cultivating Courage        

by Lawrence M. Kryske

"German philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer observed, 'All truth passes through three stages. First, it is ridiculed. Second, it is violently opposed. Third, it is accepted as being self-evident.' Therefore, if we can endure the capricious comments of those who neither create nor produce, a new panorama of possibilities unfolds."

Also includes a copy of Elbert Hubbard's excellent short essay "A Message to Garcia" which calls for hard working, action-orientated employees.

Another good quote: "God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference." - Reinhold Niebuhr

Wooden: A Lifetime of Observations and Reflections on and Off the Court      

by John Wooden with Steve Jamison

Coach John Wooden gives terrific insight into life through sports and his life experiences. Many time-honored principals that have been forgotten in society today.

A few of my highlights include:
The Gift of a Lifetime (pgs 8-14)
A Parent Talks to a Child Before the First Game (Pgs 23-25)
The Realistic Optimist (pgs 59-60)
When to Be Dejected (pg 125)
Who Can Lead? (pg 112)
Players: Politics and Religion (pg 144)
Success Cornerstones: Industriousness and Enthusiasm (pgs 175-179)

Leadership and Self-Deception: Getting out of the Box    

by The Arbinger Institute

Wow. This is good. Very insightful. It's my fault. It's the only way to fix the problem. Even thought the Arbinger Institute has no affiliation to any specific religion, for me, this book fleshed out a lot of principles that I see in a true Christian: Self-evaluation, taking people's words and actions in the kindest possible way, being thankful for your blessings, servant leadership, accept responsibility, the outward action does not matter as much as the heart, etc. But this book is more profound than each of these brief phrases. You have to read it for yourself.

Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap... and Others Don't       

by Jim Collins

Excellent read for the detail orientated person. Jim Collins is tremendous at laying out powerful concepts based on the results of in-depth research. A prequal, you could say, of Built to Last. And it all starts with Level 5 leadership. Find your hedge hog concept and keep pushing the flywheel untill...breakthrough!

8 Attributes of Great Achievers         

by Cameron C. Taylor

Quick and easy read which teaches key principals of success with historical examples.

Character Counts: Leadership Qualities in Washington, Wilberforce, Lincoln, …       

by Os Guinness

There is something different that makes these men stand out in history, a key behind their greatness. Character. What is character? I enjoyed gaining insight into character as I read about these men. I felt challenged to live a similar life of purpose. Do I have any of the same qualities? Would my friends describe me as having the same honorable and inspiring traits as these men? What example am I setting for my children? Who are our admirable leaders today?

The natural state of things is deterioration. This book is a call for the reinstatement of character in our society today. It is evident you do not get these admirable qualities by accident. Otherwise greatness would be commonplace. So read, learn, and apply!

Teamwork Makes The Dreamwork     

by John C. Maxwell

The Difference Maker: Making Your Attitude Your Greatest Asset         

by John C. Maxwell

This book puts attitude in a practical perspective, helping people persevere through discouragement, change, problems, fear, and failure.

Top quotes:

- When a leader is ruled by fear, he becomes a lid to the people who follow him.

- Success each day should be judged by the seeds sown, not the harvest reaped.

Developing the Leader Within You    

by John C. Maxwell

"20 percent of your priorities will give you 80 percent of your production"

"Efficiency is the foundation for survival. Effectiveness is the foundation of success."

“Integrity binds our person together and fosters a spirit of contentment within us. It will not allow our lips to violate our hearts.”

“I believe that every right implies a responsibility; every opportunity, an obligation; every possession, a duty.” –John D. Rockefeller, Jr.

“Image is what people think we are. Integrity is what we really are.”

“When you love your followers genuinely and correctly, they’ll respect and follow you through many changes”

“Human behavior studies show that people do not basically resist change; they resist ‘being changed.’”

“Once the facts are clear, the decisions jump out at you” – Peter Drucker

Simple plan to help a person change some wrong attitudes:

     Say the right words,

     Read the right books,

     Listen to the right tapes,

     Be with the right people,

     Do the right things,

     Pray the right prayer.

“The one who influences others to follow only is a leader with certain limitations. The one who influences others to lead others is a leader without limitations.”

On self-discipline: “The sooner they can take control of their desires and submit them to life’s demands, the more successful they will become.”

The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership       

by John C. Maxwell

Some of my highlights:

The greater the impact you want to make, the greater your influence needs to be. Whatever you will accomplish is restricted by your ability to lead others.

If I need to be inspired to take steps forward, then I'll attend an event. If I want to improve, then I'll engage in a process and stick with it.

Being an adder requires me to get out of my comfort zone every day and think about adding value to others.

If you don't believe in who you are and where you want to lead, work on that before doing anything else.

People's opinion of us has less to do with what they see in us than it does with what we can help them see in themselves.

...I decided that I would not teach anything I did not try to live out.

If the leader is looking for someone to motive him, then the organization is in trouble.

Success doesn't count for much if you leave nothing behind.

Critical Choices That Change Lives: How Heroes Turn Tragedy Into Triumph  

by Daniel R. Castro

From Rascal: Inspiration category.

Many historical example that clarify life principles. A book that gets you thinking...perhaps from different perspective.

QBQ! The Question Behind the Question     

by John G. Miller

Simple, but powerful technique. Gets you asking the right questions so you can get the right answers. Personal accountability is badly needed in our world today. Short read; seems like a great book to distribute to employees.

Outstanding!: 47 Ways to Make Your Organization Exceptional

by John G. Miller

Great reference for specific areas of improvement.

Who Moved My Cheese?: An Amazing Way to Deal with Change…        

by Spencer Johnson & Kenneth Blanchard

Peaks and Valleys: Making Good And Bad Times Work For You…        

by Spencer Johnson

Quick read with easy-to-understand concepts. Good reminders with a different perspective for those that have read other principal-based books. Great place to start if you are not an avid reader yet. Of course, applying what you learn is the hard part. I find it easier to apply these principles knowing God's promises and guidance.

The Ant and the Elephant: Leadership For the Self

by Vince Poscente

Hilarious footnotes, but very powerful concepts. So many truths are brought to life in this fictional story. This book has really clarified a lot of concepts I already knew. I've gone from simply having the facts to having the means to implement these concepts.

Leaders Without Borders: 9 Essentials for Everyday Leaders    

by Doug Dickerson

"Leaving your mark with people is about praising them in the good times and exercising patience in the down times, forgiveness in the hard times, and encouragement in the depressing times. Above all else, it is simply about being there."

Attitude Is Everything: Change Your Attitude...and You Change Your Life!    

by Jeff Keller

“Your beliefs brought you to where you are today, and your thinking from this point forward will take you to where you'll be in the future.” Break out of the comfort zone.

Bringing Out the Best in People: How to Enjoy Helping Others Excel    

by Alan Loy McGinnis

Virtually everyone is a motivator in one way or another - when we're persuading a friend to lose weight, or giving a pep talk to our kids, or trying to help a batter out of a slump. The 12 guidelines in this book are quite simple, and they can be mastered by anyone. --Alan Loy McGinnis

The Psychology of Winning    

by Denis Waitley

Although I would not take his advice when it comes to faith, Denis does have a very motivational writing style and makes some key points about Winners. They are:

- eager to learn

- honest, aligning thought, word, and action

- confident, having a strong belief system

- responsible, not waiting for someone else to do it

- motivated (money does not equal success)

- focused on goals, not distracted by time-wasting activities

- consistent, expecting to achieve success

- caring and service-oriented.

Find your purpose and pursue it passionately!

The No Complaining Rule: Positive Ways to Deal with Negativity at Work        

by Jon Gordon

Jon Gordon is great at laying out basic principles using a short story format. Avoid the death spiral of mindless complaining in order to improve productivity and performance. The optimal ratio of positive to negative interactions is around 5:1.

The Energy Bus: 10 Rules to Fuel Your Life, Work, and Team with Positive Energy

by Jon Gordon

Inspiring last couple chapters. "Too blessed to be stressed”

Now, Discover Your Strengths         

by Marcus Buckingham & Donald O. Clifton

I was a little concerned in the first few chapters that this could limit some people's vision of what they can achieve in life. Marcus argues that talent cannot be learned, but looking more into his definition of talent reveals a slightly different definition than what is inherent to me. He establishes talent as our initial responses that are heavily ingrained into our thinking from youth. If we are going to make a dramatic change in our lives, Marcus contests that this is not necessarily a change, but a redirection of our talents. Taking the Strengths Finder test for myself, I can see how the revealing top themes/talents are not very limiting in your life direction. The themes provide positive guidance in maximizing your potential by building on your strengths. If anyone feels this limits their challenging personal vision for their life, I highly recommend reading Talent is Overrated by Geoff Colvin.

Rhinoceros Success     

by Scott Alexander

Best quote, "Did you know that the Bible is the original 'how to be successful' manual? You don't need to read 'Rhinoceros Success' or any other book to learn to live your life successfully. All you really need is a copy of the Bible. Every answer is in there. Every success book is based on the Bible, only worded differently."

Virtues of Leadership    

by William J. Bennett

This book is filled with stories of examples on servant leadership.

Finances (& Business)

The Magic of Thinking Big        

by David Schwartz

I got a lot more out of this book the second time through.

This is definitely one of those books where you can gain a lifetime of experience without having to learn these lessons on your own through painful personal experience. I would encourage you to glean what you can from the many powerful life lessons found in this book and discover the magic of thinking big!

How I Raised Myself from Failure to Success in Selling    

by Frank Bettger

Definitely a "must read" for anyone in sales, but also a valuable aid for communicating new ideas to other people. This book is also a helpful reminder of the importance of self-organization. Bettger stresses, more than anything, the need for genuine, selfless interest in others.

The Richest Man in Babylon    

by George S. Clason

Financial management principles taught in story format. If Americans would follow these principles, our economy would not be the mess it is today! Drastic change is needed now to give our children a brighter future. I am willing to discuss these principles with anyone willing to apply them. Getting our nation debt free will happen one household at a time.

The Business of LIFE   

by Chris Brady & Orrin Woodward

This is it! Have fun, make money, & make a difference!

The Go-Giver: A Little Story About a Powerful Business Idea      

by Bob Burg & John David Mann

From Rascal: Inspiration category.

Wow! Very inspiring story with strong principals!

The five laws of stratospheric success:
1. The law of value
2. The law of compensation
3. The law of influence
4. The law of authenticity
5. The law of receptivity

The E-Myth Revisited: Why Most Small Businesses Don't Work and What to Do…

by Michael E. Gerber

Venturing out into the world of small business? Start off in the right direction and set yourself up for success by reading this book. Your business is a reflection of who you are. We can't take our same old self into a bright new future; we must grow and change along the way. Your business potential is capped only by your personal potential, so start reading! Be intentional, not accidental. This book explains the power of systems thinking throughout your business and motivates the reader to work on their business, not just in it.