Top 5 Books That Shaped Me
Seeing the books someone has read is intimate. It's a step inside their mind–their interests, their beliefs, and more. The following books have strongly shaped me personally and professionally.
Intro: The Intimate Bookshelf
Looking at someone's bookshelf is insanely intimate. It's like peering into someone's mind. You can't see my bookshelf, but you can start with this list. The following books have been major influences on how I think, work, and approach life. Each one has left a lasting mark, helping me evolve among problem-solving and communication to leadership and innovation.
1. Socrates' Way: Seven Keys to Using Your Mind to the Utmost by Ronald Gross
How it changed me:
Socratic questioning taught me to dive deeper into ideas and ask the right questions within the Socratic methodology. At 19 years old, I incepted that the best route to treasure is listening. o listen, stay curious and never settle for the surface-level stuff. My search for value and truth are unending.
How it shows up in my work:
I’m always asking “why” when I’m in meetings or tackling complex projects. This approach helps me uncover root causes and lead more meaningful conversations that get to the heart of matters more quickly. This is huge for sniffing out flimsy objections.
II. The Inevitable by Kevin Kelly
How it changed me:
This book pushes me to think critically about customer experience (CX), product/software development, and the overall rhetorical situation. I better understand the trends shaping tomorrow, so I can be engaged regarding what’s next instead of sloppily playing catch-up.
How it shows up in my work:
When providing product guidance to C-Suite Executives, my thoughts are aligned with deep-seated variables known to work. For this reason, I led the charge in connecting Customer Success and Sales to the Product as a figurehead. Knowing what’s coming in regard to customers' interests, pain points, and context helps my team and I make better decisions while staying competitive.
III. Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand
How it changed me:
Atlas Shrugged made me think differently about personal responsibility and defining value. Although I think 'objectivism' (the personal philosophy of Rand) is absolute garbage, there is a lot of good to be gleaned from this book. It sparked my belief in the importance of owning your work and not compromising on your principles while progressing linearly–not cyclically.
How it shows up in my work:
I make decisions based on a strong foundation of integrity and intraprenuership. I push myself and my team to take risks while staying true to our core values. If you're showing up at all, you may as well work to show up your very best.
IV. Quiet by Susan Cain
How it changed me:
As an ambivert that used to be on the quieter side, Quiet was a revelation. It made me realize that introversion is a strength, not a flaw, and that there’s real power in thoughtful reflection and deep work. It was also a phenomenal addition to my perspective on the evolution of 18th & 19th American society, one of my biggest fascinations within academia.
How it shows up in my work:
I create environments where both introverts and extroverts can thrive. I know how to tap into the strengths of quiet focus and deep thought, and I make sure every voice in the room is heard. Introverts, just as their louder counterparts, have great ideas to share when the context is set properly.
V. Convince Them in 90 Seconds by Nicholas Boothman
How it changed me:
This book gave me a defined approach to sharpen and develop natural skills– making a strong first impression and building trust quickly. It taught me that people decide how they feel about you fast, and you need to make those moments count. I also broke my negative connotations towards selling with this.
How it shows up in my work:
Whether I’m connecting with new clients or colleagues, I use these skills to build comfort and rapport quickly. It’s all about creating an instant connection leading to long-term trust and further happeniness.
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Similar to my ceaseless need for daily learning, I couldn't stop at just five books!
Bonus Book: Made to Stick by Chip Heath & Dan Heath
How it changed me:
Made to Stick taught me that crafting memorable ideas is just as important as having them. The ability to simplify complex thoughts and make them stick with people is a powerful skill.
How it shows up in my work:
I make sure that when I communicate—whether in presentations, emails, or casual conversations—what I say is clear, concise, and memorable. It’s about getting the message across and making it last. We all have a lot going on nowadays, if you want your idea to live, you've got to make it stick.
Conclusion: The Lifelong Impact of Reading
Why These Books Matter
Each of these books has shaped my approach to business and life. From asking the right questions and understanding future trends, to building strong relationships and communicating clearly, the lessons I’ve taken from these works find their way into everything I do. These books have helped me grow, and I believe the insights and skills I’ve gained can bring real value to any organization.
Which of these books perk your interest or has had an impact on you? Let me know below.
