If you’re like most nonprofit leaders, you’re always looking for ways to be more productive.
Whether it’s finding new ways to streamline your organization’s fundraising efforts or delegating more effectively, there’s always room for improvement when it comes to productivity.
I get asked for book recommendations a lot, so I decided to start a list of the best productivity books someone should start with.
I can think of a set of books have helped me start the processing of thinking through how to get the most of my time, energy, and resources so that I can accomplish more than ever before. From classics like “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” to newer titles like “Deep Work,” there’s something on this list for everyone.
So without further ado, here is the starter list:
5 Best Books To Boost Your Productivity
#1. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey:
First published in 1989, this timeless classic has helped millions of people around the world learn how to be more effective in both their personal and professional lives. It’s a classic for a reason. If you’re looking for ways to be more productive at work, this is the book for you. Check out The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.
#2. Deep Work by Cal Newport:
In our constantly connected world, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to focus on complex tasks and achieve true mastery. Multi-tasking is a myth supposedly, but so many of us pursue it like it’s the key to unlock the secret turbo button in a video game. In his book “Deep Work,” Newport shows readers how to achieve unprecedented levels of productivity by learning how to focus deeply on challenging tasks. Check out Deep Work.
#3. Getting Things Done by David Allen:
In his international bestseller “Getting Things Done,” Allen lays out a simple but effective system for managing your time and accomplishing more than you ever thought possible. This book is packed with actionable tips that will help you get organized and get things done. One of the most critical ideas is to empty your head of ALL the things it’s carrying inside. Declutter your brain by creating systems to capture it all and process it accordingly. I’m trying out the “morning notes” ritual many creatives use which taps the same core concept. Check out Getting Things Done.
#4. The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg:
Our lives are governed by habits, both good and bad. In “The Power of Habit,” Duhigg explores how habits are formed and how they can be changed in order to improve our productivity. If you find yourself falling into bad habits that sabotage your productivity, this book is a must-read. Check out: The Power of Habit
#5. Drive by Daniel Pink:
In his book “Drive,” Pink explores what motivates us to be productive and outlines some surprising (and counterintuitive) findings about what drives peak performance. This is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand what motivates them (and others) to be productive.
These are just a few of the many excellent productivity books that are available. Each of these have made it into the “classics,” “must read,” category — mention any of them at your next meeting with other high performance leaders and chances are they have read most if not all of these books — and don’t forget to ask for recommendations while you’re at it! Check out Drive.
I hope that these titles will help you boost your productivity so that you can accomplish even more in the coming year. Happy reading!
