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I always brag that I read productivity books for fun, which is in fact true. But I thought it was about time that I share my top choices on the subject. I have chosen books that I have read (including one that I’m currently reading) and that I have gained a lot of benefit from. The list is in no particular order, apart from the first book which is probably my all-time favourite book in the productivity realm. So, here’s my top 5 list:
As mentioned above, this is one of my favourite books. James Clear describes in incredible clarity and with straight forward examples how to create successful habits and also how to break destructive habits. It’s such an uncomplicated way, it makes so much sense and it makes you wonder why you haven’t practiced these principles all your life.
An absolute classic when it comes to productivity. David Allen’s GTD system is tried and tested, and it works. It is based around economies of scale, as in that we get better and faster at things we do for a while. David Allen also developed the idea of “inbox zero” which is an eye opener. If you want to completely overhaul how you get stuff done throughout the day, then this book will guide you through the process.
Another classic. Brian Tracy is a great sales trainer as well as a productivity expert. He’s written multiple bestsellers on both subject and is probably best known for “Eat That Frog”. It refers to the quote attributed to Mark Twain “If it's your job to eat a frog, it's best to do it first thing in the morning. And If it's your job to eat two frogs, it's best to eat the biggest one first.” Whether Mark Twain actually said this or not, if you do the most difficult thing first thing in the morning, you can be happy knowing that the worst is behind you.
The subtitle of the book “21 Great Ways to Stop Procrastinating and Get More Done in Less Time” cuts to the chase, as in addition to the “frog” idea, the book is packed with great strategies to improve your productivity.
This was the first book about habits I read, and it was a real eye opener. It explains why we do what we do and how we can quite easily change things if we know what our triggers are. The habits are the last link in the chain and it’s important to catch ourselves before the habit actually kicks in. This book explains how.
This book was recommended to me by several people and even though I’m still working through it, it’s already made my top 5 list. "Deep work" is the concept that we need to get in the zone, focus, concentrate rather than flit from task to task, never really doing anything properly. When we do “deep work” we do good work, we create quality. It talks about the importance of setting aside daily time for focus, something I’m trying to help my clients do as well. I’m looking forward to finding out more about it, so that I can help my clients even better.
So, there they are, my top 5 productivity books. I hope this helps you if you’re thinking of reading a bit more on the subject. If you have any questions about any of the books, please let me know, I’m happy to chat. Just leave a comment below or contact me on social media.
PS: just to let you know, the links are affiliate links, which means I might earn a small commission, if you purchase the books via the links. This is at no cost to the author.