How many times over the year have you seen a friend reading a book or spotted something at the bookstore and thought, “That looks interesting! I’ll have to add it to my list.” Did you ever get around to reading it? If you’re like most people, you probably forgot about it within a few days as other concerns crowded your mind. Check out Point University’s list of 5 Best Books To Read This Summer.
5 Best Books To Read
Well, summer is the perfect time to lie on the beach or curl up in a hammock and catch up on those books you’ve always wanted to read. Point University suggests some of the classic books that every adult student should read this summer. They’ll sharpen your skills and keep you entertained!
1. How to Win Friends and Influence People
The only diploma hanging in Warren Buffet’s office isn’t from the University of Nebraska or Columbia University. It’s from a class he took based on Dale Carnegie’s world-renowned bestseller. Published over 70 years ago, every single lesson in this book is still applicable today. You’ll learn how to network and engage with other people (hint: figure out their motivations and talk about what they like). You’ll develop your persuasive skills, and even work on overcoming fears about public speaking. This book should be on everyone’s list. It’s not about business; it’s about learning to relate to other people. This definitely tops our charts as one of the best books to read this summer.
2. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People
Although it was written over 25 years ago, this book is the #1 bestselling business leadership book on Amazon. If you’re looking for quick and easy tips that will change your life overnight, though, this isn’t the book for you. These habits are exactly that – habits. If you want to make lasting personal changes that will serve you well in life and business, start here. You’ll be inspired by the anecdotes Covey relays, and it isn’t dry or boring. A fun self-help book? It’s true!
3. The 3 Big Questions for a Frantic Family
Patrick Lencioni has written several books on business (The Five Dysfunctions of a Team and The Three Signs of a Miserable Job are our personal favorites). In this book, he tackles family dynamics with the same methodical, scientific approach he’s known for. At its heart, every family is essentially an organization, but we don’t treat it like one. Instead, it seems like most parents are reactive rather than proactive.
4. Rich Dad Poor Dad
This one’s a perennial favorite on lists of top money management books, and it’s grown into an empire, with workbooks, retreats, and even a board game. Before you sign up for any classes, though, give this book a thorough read. It stands on its own as a great introduction to managing your money, wherever you are in life. It doesn’t tell you which stocks to pick, or even specific investments you should be making. But it will redefine how you think about your income and expenses, and that can change your life.
5. The Road to Character
by David Brooks
David Brooks’ writing style is one everyone can appreciate. He’s funny, witty, charming, and can drive home a meaningful point without taking himself too seriously. He’s at his best in this new book, which explores our values. There are “résumé virtues” – wealth, status, professional success – and “eulogy virtues” – the things we’d like to be known for when we pass away. Which of these virtues are you focused on developing?
For Point University students, character is displayed in every tiny action. We’re a faith-based school, and our students are focused on improving themselves in all areas of life, from business to money matters to leadership skills. Use this summer as an opportunity to read one or more of these books, and think about how you can, as the apostle Peter says, “continue to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord.” (2 Peter 3:18).