Summer Reading Round-Up: Books That Inspired The Quality Coach® Team

Summer is a time for relaxation, reflection, and rejuvenation. For The Quality Coach team, it's also an opportunity to dive into some incredible books that offer insights, inspiration, and new perspectives. Here’s a peek into the titles that have captivated our coaches this summer:

The Sixth Level by Stacy Fiener, Kathy Overbeck, Jack Harris, and Rachael Wallis Andreasson

The Sixth Level advances leadership for all leaders. The Sixth Level model is derived from the narratives of 16 women leaders as seen through the lens of Self-in-Relation theory, which defines the psychology of women as oriented to connection and care. This model supersedes Maslow’s fifth level featuring four core differentiators, qualities that distinguish women’s leadership.

The Women by Kristen Hannah

The Women by Kristin Hannah is a poignant and powerful story that delves into the lives of women who served in the Vietnam War. This novel captures the strength, resilience, and sacrifices of these women, offering a deep and emotional narrative that left a lasting impression on our team. Hannah’s storytelling highlights the untold stories of heroism and the enduring impact of war.

Project Management for the Unofficial Project Manager, a Franklin Covey Book by Kory Kogan and Suzette Blakemore

A must-read for anyone involved in project management, this guide by authors Kory Kogan and Suzette Blakemore offers timeless principles and effective strategies for managing projects successfully. This book provided our team with refreshed insights on project execution, leadership, and collaboration, which are crucial elements in our coaching practices. This book adds a human component to project management driving home the importance of creating value by managing processes and leading people.

Les Misérables by Victor Hugo

Victor Hugo’s classic, Les Misérables, remains as powerful today as when it was first published. The setting is during the Paris Rebellion in the 1800’s, centered around the main character, Jean Valjean, who works his entire life for redemption. This epic tale of justice and the human spirit’s indomitable will is a profound reminder of the complexities of the human condition. The coaches were deeply moved by Hugo’s masterful storytelling and the novel’s timeless themes.

Crucial Conversations by Al Switzler, Joseph Grenny, and Ron McMillan

Crucial Conversations is an essential read for anyone looking to improve their communication skills. The book delves into techniques for handling high-stakes conversations with confidence and clarity. Our team found its insights particularly valuable for facilitating more effective and meaningful dialogues in both personal and professional settings.

Atomic Habits by James Clear

James Clear’s Atomic Habits explores the science of habit formation and how tiny changes can lead to remarkable results. This book was a favorite among our coaches for its actionable strategies and clear explanations on building good habits and breaking bad ones. The concepts in this book have been instrumental in helping our clients create sustainable change.

The Stolen Marriage by Diane Chamberlain

The Stolen Marriage by Diane Chamberlain is a gripping historical fiction novel that intertwines mystery, romance, and drama. Set in the 1940s, it tells the story of a young woman whose life takes unexpected turns. Our coaches appreciated the depth of character development and the exploration of themes like forgiveness, resilience, and the impact of choices.

In Summary

This diverse collection of books has enriched our summer and provided us with new tools and perspectives to share with you! Whether it’s through the timeless lessons of classic literature, practical guides on communication and habits, or inspiring tales of personal growth and resilience, each book has left a lasting impact. We look forward to incorporating these insights into our coaching practices and continuing to grow together with our community.

Happy reading!