Even the world’s brightest minds need some external motivation every now and then and you’ll be hard-pressed to find successful people that haven’t done their share of reading. We want to know what Canada’s movers and shakers are reading or have read to help them achieve all of their desired professional and life goals by inviting one executive to share their literary inspirations each week. Our first installment of Executive Reads features Paul Etherington, winner of our Notable Award for Young Professional of the Year in 2011. Here are Paul’s top three picks:
Letters of a Businessman to his son by G. Kingsley Ward
The book provides the advice of a self-made businessman on how to succeed in business and in life. While it came out back in 1985 when I was still in grade school, it is still extremely applicable to young professionals. I believe it was a best seller in Canada and has sold millions of copies in numerous languages. Its unique to many of the business books out there today that simply promote “get-rick-quick” formulas. Rather, this this book provides SOLID advice on business conduct. The general themes revolve around setting goals for yourself, working hard, being honest and blocking off time to enjoy your life – all things I believe in.
The Bedside Executive by James Charlton
This 112-page book of quotations and observations deals with all aspects of business and professional life. If you are a fan of quotes and regularly add them into your presentations or speeches, this is a must-have!
Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson
Steve’s intense personality, passion for perfection and creative drive and entrepreneurship are truly inspiring to me and are reminders that anything is truly possible to accomplish in life and in work if you have the determination and focus. Given Issaacson’s complete control of the content, unlike many biographies, I find the writing to be very honest and candid, which is incredibly refreshing. It is very clear from this book that while an innovator and icon, Mr. Jobs was certainly not perfect!