Five inspiring and fun books to read this season

Reading is ideal for leaders and managers to step back from their daily responsibilities and stimulates both the mind and the imagination. While traditional business books have their place, exploring non-traditional titles can offer fresh perspectives and inspire innovative thinking. The following five books, all recently published, provide valuable insights that go beyond conventional leadership advice. These selections are not only informative but also engaging, making them perfect for a relaxing yet intellectually rewarding read. Whether you are looking to foster creativity, improve decision-making, or simply gain new ideas, these books have something unique to offer.

1. The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin

Rick Rubin, one of the most influential music producers of our time, delves into the essence of creativity in this thought-provoking book. He shares his philosophy on creativity as a way of living, offering practical advice on how to tap into your own creative potential. Leaders will find inspiration in Rubin's insights, learning how to foster an environment that encourages innovation and original thinking within their teams. The book's meditative tone and deep reflections make it an enriching read if you are looking to enhance your creative leadership.

2. Quit: The Power of Knowing When to Walk Away by Annie Duke

In "Quit," Annie Duke challenges the traditional narrative of perseverance and explores the strategic value of knowing when to walk away. Drawing from her background as a professional poker player and decision-making expert, Duke presents compelling arguments for quitting as a tool for better decision-making. This book is particularly valuable for leaders who often face the dilemma of whether to continue a project or pivot to something new. Duke's insights can help you make more informed, rational choices that ultimately lead to greater success and efficiency at your work.

3. Invisible Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men by Caroline Criado Perez

Caroline Criado Perez’s "Invisible Women" reveals the pervasive data bias that overlooks women’s experiences in various aspects of life, from healthcare to technology. The book meticulously documents how these biases manifest and the consequences they have on women. For leaders and managers, this book is a crucial read for understanding the importance of designing inclusive practices in the workplace. It challenges you to rethink the status quo and consider how you can contribute to a more equitable world through data-driven decisions.

4. Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World by David Epstein

In "Range," David Epstein makes the case that in a world increasingly obsessed with specialization, it's the generalists who often come out ahead. Through a series of compelling case studies, Epstein shows how people with broad interests and diverse experiences are better equipped to innovate and solve complex problems. You will find this book valuable for understanding how to cultivate a team with varied skill sets and encourage cross-disciplinary thinking. It’s a powerful reminder that sometimes, the best solutions come from outside the box.

5. Humor, Seriously: Why Humor Is a Secret Weapon by Jennifer Aaker and Naomi Bagdonas

"Humor, Seriously" explores the often-overlooked power of humor in the workplace, arguing that it’s a critical tool for building stronger relationships, fostering creativity, and improving communication. Jennifer Aaker and Naomi Bagdonas provide evidence-based strategies for incorporating humor into leadership, demonstrating how it can enhance team dynamics and overall job satisfaction. This book is a delightful read that offers you practical tips to lighten the mood while still maintaining professionalism. It will show you that a well-timed joke can be a serious tool in your leadership arsenal.

These five books offer a mix of creative insight, strategic advice, and a fresh perspective on leadership and management. They are perfect if you want to relax while also gaining new tools and ideas to bring back to your work. Just as these books encourage you to think beyond conventional boundaries, joining a part-time MBA allows you to continue working while expanding your knowledge and skill set in real-time. By combining the insights from these non-traditional reads with the practical, in-depth learning of Nyenrode’s new Impact MBA program, you can equip yourself with the tools you need to navigate today’s complex business landscape with agility and creativity.