This summer I’ve committed to reading five books that are focused on my professional development. I’ve scoured reviews on GoodReads, Amazon, Twitter as well as recommendations from friends and family, to find books that will resonate with me, because let’s face it – if a business-ish book doesn’t grab me in the first few chapters, I am on to the next one! Below are the five books that have made my summer reading list.

1. Grit by Angela Duckworth 

“In this must-read book for anyone striving to succeed, pioneering psychologist Angela Duckworth shows parents, educators, athletes, students, and business people-both seasoned and new-that the secret to outstanding achievement is not talent but a focused persistence called “grit.” Why do some people succeed and others fail? Sharing new insights from her landmark research on grit, MacArthur “genius” Angela Duckworth explains why talent is hardly a guarantor of success. Rather, other factors can be even more crucial such as identifying our passions and following through on our commitments.” – Amazon.ca

2. Girl Code by Cara Alwill Leyba

“Girl Code is a roadmap for female entrepreneurs, professional women, “side hustlers” (those with a day job plus a part-time small business), and any­one in between. This book won’t teach you how to build a multimillion-dollar company. It won’t teach you about systems or finance. But it will teach you how to build confidence in yourself, reconnect with your “why,” eradicate jealousy, and ultimately learn the power of connection. Because at the end of the day, that’s what life and business are all about.” – Chapters.Indigo.ca

3. You are a Badass by Jen Sincero 

“If touchy-feely self-help tomes make you feel, shall we say, less than inspired, this no-nonsense manifesto to awesomeness might be just what you’re looking for. Filled with blunt and sassy advice, do-it-yourself exercises in personal transformation, and a whole lot of hilarity, You Are a Badass will silence your inner critic, and help you build a life worthy of the kind of Facebook news feed that others envy. Take a day off from looking for your inner goddess, and spending some time cultivating your outer badass instead.” – Bustle.com

4. The Pathfinder by Nicholas Lore

“Are you looking for a new job? Maybe you’re just hoping to reignite your passion for your current position? Whichever it may be, The Pathfinder, originally published in 1998, is the book for you. Lore aims to help you find a career path that feels good and fulfills you. With over 100 self-assessments, this isn’t a book you’ll be able to read and forget about. It puts you to work! In fact, it’s pretty similar to having your own personal career coach!” – Inc.com

5. Talk like Ted by Carmine Gallo 

“Public speaking coach and bestselling author Carmine Gallo has broken down hundreds of TED talks and interviewed the most popular TED presenters, as well as the top researchers in the fields of psychology, communications, and neuroscience to reveal the nine secrets of all successful TED presentations. Gallo’s step-by-step method makes it possible for anyone to deliver a presentation that is engaging, persuasive, and memorable.” – Amazon.ca

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What books are you reading this summer? Share in the comments!
And if you’re on Goodreads, let’s connect: Lauren on Goodreads