Top 5 reads to empower change

Are you ready to change the world? If figuring out how is your only stumbling block, you might find the inspiration, insight, and practical guidance you need in one of these five books. The list has been carefully curated by Sara L. Austin, the founder and president of Children First Canada, a non-profit organization that is mobilizing Canadians to care for, protect and empower children. 

Playing Big by Tara Mohr

An expert on women’s leadership and well-being, Tara Mohr has worked with countless women through her professional coaching, training programs, and writing. Her book blends inner work and practical skills training using her own breakthrough model for making the journey from playing small—as she describes it, that means being held back by fear and self-doubt—to playing big, taking bold action to pursue what you see as your callings. It’s a great read for anyone looking to take a leap forward in their career and life.

Rookie Smarts by Liz Wiseman

What exactly are rookie smarts? According to Liz, a two-time bestselling author, they are how we tend to think and act when we’re doing something for the first time. The obvious next question is why are they valuable, and the answer that Liz offers is simple: in our current market, we are constantly faced with rapid change. We can overcome the issues this may cause by cultivating a curious, flexible, youthful mindset that is unencumbered by past baggage, established resources, and a previous track record.

Start with Why by Simon Sinek

What do Martin Luther King Jr., Steve Jobs, and the Wright Brothers have in common? They all started with why. It’s a method of leadership—thinking, acting, and communicating—that asks why an organization operates, rather than how it operates, or what it does. And by focusing on why, Simon explains, leaders are able to inspire others to follow them. Using real-life stories as examples, it’s a great book for those who want be inspiring, or find some inspiration in others.

Tribes by Seth Godin

Bestselling author Seth Godin discusses tribes in the modern age. Thanks to the internet, we’re no longer limited by geography, cost, and time. That means anyone (including you) is capable of becoming head of a tribe, as long as they have a desire to change things, the ability to connect people, and the willingness to lead. Those who want to make a difference now have the tools at their fingertips.

The Power of Unreasonable People, by John Elkington and and Pamela Hartigan

Focusing on social entrepreneurs who are solving some of the world’s most pressing economic, social, and environmental problems, John and Pamela show how these pioneers are disrupting existing industries, value chains, and business models—and in the process creating fast-growing markets around the world. Using first-hand stories to illustrate their point, they clarify the world of social entrepreneurship for those interested in knowing more.