Recommended Reads

I am often recommended motivating books, so I thought I would create a page to pass on these recommendations. If you would like to share any books that have motivated you I’d love to hear from you.

Losing My Virginity by Richard Branson

This book was cited by Miles Hilton Barber as a book that had a positive impact on him. I read this book when starting my first business. I was so inspired that I wrote to Richard Branson to tell him. I was not expecting a response from the multi-millionaire but he actually wrote back!

This bestseller reveals  Richard Branson’s unique story, his personal philosophy on life and the Virgin brand and business. If you want to know just how Richard did it, this is the book for you.

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 Fish

This book was recommended to me by Helen, CEO at Jaluch who I always find inspiring company. I found it a little schmaltzy at times but some really good messages within this short book on how to motivate colleagues and teams that seem impossible to motivate.

Massively successful, this management parable is possibly a little too sugar coated for everyone but judging by sales figures it is clearly for many. Based on the fish market in Seattle it is really easy reading and the messages are a good lesson or reminder.

Available in alternative formats

 

Making It by Lou Gimson and Allison Mitchell

In this book, female entrepreneurs reveal the secrets of their success.

Ok, shameless recommendation as I am actually featured in this book, but I did genuinely find the other chapters motivating. A great read for anyone starting up a business as there are some great real-life stories coupled with practical advice from Allison and Lou.

Available in alternative formats

Download a complimentary e-chapter here My thanks go to Lou and Allison for offering us the opportunity of a sneak preview.

Defying Disability by Mary Wilkinson

Mary Wilkinson is one of my Inspirational Lemonade makers. I got in touch with her initially as I found her book motivating. Defying Disability showcases the lives and legacies of nine disabled leaders. I recommend this book to disabled people and non-disabled people alike. Lots of different approaches to leadership from various successful people. The diversity is reassuring and inspiring.

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Change of Heart by Jodi Picoult 

This title is recommended by Kerry Thorpe.  It is about a woman who needs a heart transplant but the only donor available is from a man on death row believed to have killed her sister. Kerry requires a double lung transplant and this book got her thinking what she would do in the same situation.

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Don’t Panic:100 Poems to save your life by Fiona Waters

Jane Cordell takes strength and spirit from the poem Ted Williams Villanelle by Mary Cope. Other poems, including this one can be found in this book.
 To read Ted Williams Villanelle click here

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 How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie

Almost everyone has heard of this book, but have you actually read it?  If it is in your interest to be skilled at persuading others then I would say this book is worth a read.  First published in 1936 it is remarkably relevant to business and personal relationships today.

available in alternative formats