It’s safe to say that 2016 has been an unusual, and at times extremely difficult, year. However, amongst the celebrity deaths, political unrest, and general sense of darkness, many great non-fiction titles have been released—and, regardless of how bad things might seem in the world, at least we’ve still got amazing writers publishing brilliant books, books that can help us grow and ensure that we stay positive.
At Joosr, we’re all about self-improvement and boosting performance, which is why our best of 2016 list is slightly different. Not only are we rounding up the 10 most talked about books of 2016–as featured in “must read” lists from the likes of Inc., Business Insider, and Forbes–we’re also rounding up those that, in particular, will have a positive impact on your life. Start 2017 with a fresh perspective and a few new skills to boot by checking out our guide to the best books of the year:
- Deep Work by Cal Newport
Deep work is a state of uninterrupted concentration, using both conscious and subconscious thoughts to help you perform to the very best of your abilities. Improve your performance at work in the coming year by setting up rules, routines, and rituals advised by Georgetown University Professor, Cal Newport.
2. Grit by Angela Duckworth
Learn how to develop your grit, and success will follow. This is the key message behind Angela Duckworth’s newest eye-opening book. Duckworth argues that grit is the most crucial thing needed to thrive, placing its importance above natural talent. With a positive mind-set in the perusal of your passion, anything is possible.
3. Originals by Adam Grant
Anyone can think like an innovator if they learn the art of innovative thinking. Adam Grant’s thinking technique involves coming up with as many concepts as possible, selecting the most original, and then refining that idea. This number one New York Times Bestseller is guaranteed to open your mind to new and exciting possibilities.
4. The Sleep Revolution by Arianna Huffington
Troubles of 2016 keeping you awake at night? You’re not alone. In fact, Arianna Huffington argues that we are in danger of a worldwide sleep epidemic. It is easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of a busy working life and overlook the importance of sleep. However, not getting enough sleep can negatively impact your personal and professional life, as well as your mental and physical health. But a sleep revolution is possible, with the adoption of various tried-and-tested methods recommended by Huffington.
5. Sprint by Jake Knapp, with John Zeratsky and Braden Kowitz
Three partners of Google Ventures have developed a five-day plan to help tackle challenges and develop new projects in the workplace. Tested in over 100 companies, this efficient method allows you to “sprint” through the production process of an idea, ensuring that no time or money is wasted.
6. Smarter Faster Better by Charles Duhigg
If you feel like you are constantly running out of time to complete daily tasks, then Charles Duhigg is here to help. Once you recognise the key areas you need to work on and set short and long term goals, then you will be able to improve your productivity levels, maintain focus, and avoid disruptions.
7. TED Talks by Chris Anderson
Ever watched a TED Talk and wished that you could be as confident in public speaking? Who better to learn from than Chris Anderson, curator of TED. The book features simple techniques on how to develop this essential life skill—including tips on script writing, body language, and defeating anxiety—that will hold a positive impact the next time you have a big presentation at work.
8. Superbosses by Sydney Finkelstein
After a decade of extensive research into the behavior of leaders from different industries across the globe, Sydney Finklestein found a pattern. In every field of work, there is a superboss: a truly successful boss, whose expert managerial skills inspire the best work from their employees. Boost your business success in 2017 by finding and managing the greatest team like a superboss.
9. Ego is the Enemy by Ryan Holiday
While many think that our ego is the thing that pushes us forward to attaining our goals, Ryan Holiday believes the opposite. He argues that the ego is the enemy that holds you back from achieving your potential. To be truly successful in life, one must defeat it, and you can learn how by following his advice.
10. The Third Wave by Steve Case
It can sometimes be hard to keep up in an ever-developing world. This is particularly true for entrepreneurs, who are faced with the challenge of setting up start-ups in the third wave of the internet. Steve Case, former CEO of AOL, offers educated advice to new business owners and provides his predictions about the future of business in this practical and engaging memoir.
It’s always nice to review the year and see the best of the best, but let’s face it—the chances of reading all ten of these books anytime soon are rather slim. Joosr’s signature 20-minute simple summaries make it easy for you to enjoy all of the best titles of 2016 without committing hours of your life to each one. Learn while enjoying some hard-earned time off this Christmas with Joosr. Start your free trial today and read your first 5 books for free!
