Published in 2019, “The Algebra of Happiness” is a book by Scott Galloway that offers a blend of personal anecdotes, professional advice, and insights into achieving success, happiness, and life fulfillment. The book draws from Galloway’s experiences as an entrepreneur, professor, and public speaker, providing guidance on relationships, career choices, and personal growth.
The Algebra of Happiness
My Thoughts
I enjoyed this book. In particular, the fact that his sons brought so much joy into his life. (I don’t know that kissing them on the mouth is needed, but still.) It’s amazing how much he gets wrong at the same time of getting so much right.
Published in 2009, “Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us” explores the concept of motivation and challenges traditional notions of what drives human behavior. Daniel H. Pink argues that conventional carrot-and-stick approaches to motivation, such as rewards and punishments, are often ineffective in fostering long-term engagement and creativity. Pink introduces the concept of intrinsic motivation suggesting individuals are most motivated when they have the freedom to pursue tasks that align with their interests and values, opportunities to develop their skills, and a clear sense of meaning in their work.
Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us
My Thoughts
Reading this book 16 years after the publication does taint the excitement generated by the subject matter. I remember the rise of the open office in the tech world and the ideas of empowerment that were prevalent during that time. Some offices have continued along that path but have learned there are times employees needed time to themselves to do deep work. Of course, the COVID pandemic threw a monkey wrench into the idea of a fixed office provided by the company. Oddly enough, this plays directly into Pink’s point of autonomy. Are we more productive now? We are still sorting that out, but early reports like this one say we are much better off.
Published in 2016, “The Age of Deer” by Erika Howsare is an exploration of humanity’s ecological interdependence with the deer population, blending memoir, natural history, and cultural analysis. Howsare’s book takes readers in her personal journey as she observes, interacts with, and reflects upon the behavior and symbolism of deer in different cultures and in her rural Virginia surroundings. She attempts to view human interaction with deer through several perspectives and through several lenses.
The Age of Deer
My Thoughts
At times the book is surprisingly insightful and touched on information and situations, of which I was not aware. However, it is all through the eyes of someone who is still squeamish at the sight of blood and has obvious distaste for hunters. Through the story arc of the book, she does find grudging respect for those who hunt (fortunately they were family members). Still, she seems to want it tied up in a bow of nobility and need. Something akin to, ‘The hunter must hunt to survive and must reverence the creature on which they feed.’
Regardless, she seemed to do her homework and the book is well written. Even if she had to hold her nose through the project, she did provide some interesting facts.
Recommendation
This was hard to get through for me but I’m glad I read it.
Published in 2014, “Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don’t,” by Simon Sinek, explores the foundational elements of great leadership and successful teams. Sinek delves into the biology of leadership, explaining how leaders can create environments where people feel safe, cooperate, and dedicate themselves to collective success. Drawing on real-life stories and scientific research, he illustrates why leaders who prioritize the well-being of their teams foster trust and collaboration, leading to more resilient and innovative organizations. The book underscores the importance of empathy and self-sacrifice in leadership, arguing that when leaders put their team’s needs first, they unlock the potential for extraordinary achievements. Sinek’s work offers a compelling roadmap for anyone looking to inspire loyalty, build stronger teams, and lead with a sense of purpose.
Leaders Eat Last
My Thoughts
Unlike “The Four”, this book seems to have withstood the test of time a little bit better. The forward was from Marine General Flinn, who gained some notoriety back in those days. No wonder this book was suggested to me by a Marine officer…
Recommendation
Good book with some solid ideas about inspiring others.
Published in 2000, “Between Husband and Wife: Gospel Perspectives on Marital Intimacy,” by Stephen E. Lamb and Douglas E. Brinley, provides a thoughtful exploration of the physical and emotional aspects of marital intimacy through the lens of gospel teachings. The authors delve into how couples can enhance their marital relationship by aligning their intimate lives with their spiritual beliefs, emphasizing communication, mutual respect, and love. The book addresses common challenges and questions couples may have, offering guidance and insights based on scriptural doctrines and the teachings of modern-day church leaders. It aims to help couples build a stronger, more fulfilling marriage by integrating their faith with their personal relationship, particularly in the context of intimacy, which is often considered a taboo subject in religious discussions. Through practical advice and spiritual encouragement, the book seeks to empower couples to nurture a deep, lasting connection that harmonizes their physical and spiritual union.
Between Husband and Wife: Gospel Perspectives on Marital Intimacy
My Thoughts
Sex is one of the most taboo things that seems to be in everyone’s face. Pornographic images and videos are all over the place and none of them help a married couple because it isn’t real. Suspending for a second that the whole point of porn is to debase people in order to make money, even the most realistic depictions of sexual acts does not help married couples grow closer together. They need to walk that road themselves and discover themselves and each other in the process.
Recommendation
Certainly not the definitive source but it was a good book.
Published in 2009, “Start With Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action,” by Simon Sinek, introduces a powerful model for inspirational leadership centered on a vital question: “Why?” Sinek argues that organizations are more successful, influential, and innovative when they clarify their fundamental purpose or belief before addressing how they do what they do or what they do. He illustrates his point with a variety of real-world examples from renowned leaders and organizations that have found profound success by starting with their ‘why.’ The book emphasizes the significance of connecting with people emotionally by articulating and believing in a cause greater than the sum of the organization’s activities. Sinek’s insights encourage leaders and companies to focus on why they exist to inspire action, attract loyal supporters, and achieve enduring success, transforming the way they think about their work and leadership.
Start With Why
My Thoughts
Oddly enough, this book couldn’t have come at a better time. I am winding down a project that was handed to me over four years ago. It took the majority of my department to keep it going and it has finally been completely de-funded. We will execute the program for another couple of months, but my whole department has been wondering what is next. Frankly, so have I. My leadership has been all over the map recently and I haven’t been given a firm intent moving forward. Given the mix of personnel I have left and the funding we have, there really is just one choice and I’ve been angling in that direction for over a year now.
Although, in my heart I knew what needed to be done, this book reminded me that I should look a little harder. My team needs to know the things I’ve known for years since I’ve been in this position. They need to know why and really feel it.
Published in 2023, “Listen: On Music, Sound, and Us,” by Mark Doffman is an insightful exploration into the world of music and sound and how they profoundly influence our lives. Doffman delves into the essence of listening, examining how we interact with sounds and music, and what these interactions reveal about our humanity. The book interweaves personal stories, scientific research, and cultural analysis to demonstrate how sound and music shape our experiences, relationships, and identities. Through a series of engaging narratives, Doffman invites readers to reconsider their auditory experiences and the role of listening in understanding the world and connecting with others. This work is not just about music’s aesthetic and cultural dimensions but also about its power to affect us on deeply personal and universal levels.
Listen: On Music Sound and Us
My Thoughts
This book was a novel approach in that it didn’t judge whatever anyone enjoyed. I found myself reflecting on past experiences with the intent just to enjoy it. That in itself was worth the read.
“A Stinky History of Toilets” is an engaging and educational book that delves into the fascinating evolution of toilets throughout history. With a blend of humor and fact, the book explores how different cultures have approached sanitation and the technological advancements that have led to the modern bathroom. From ancient latrines and the elaborate sewer systems of Rome to the inventiveness of the Victorian era and beyond, the narrative offers readers a unique perspective on a subject often taken for granted. This book not only provides a historical overview but also sheds light on the social and environmental implications of toilets, highlighting their critical role in public health and hygiene. With its entertaining style and informative content, “A Stinky History of Toilets” makes the history of this essential invention accessible and interesting to a wide audience, revealing the profound impact toilets have had on civilization and daily life.
A Stinky History of Toilets
My Thoughts
Toilets are one of those things we miss when we are without them. I have always been fascinated by the cultural differences in this very human activity. From the Captain Kirkish seats in Japan to the simple hole in the ground, we all have to go sometime. Even in my area, I have friends who live and die by their toilet seat bidets and swear their lives are the better for it. While I haven’t jumped on the bandwagon, I think it is a good idea to know your way isn’t the only way.
Recommendation
This was a fun book written in a simple style to educate everyone.
Published in 2001, “Napalm and Silly Putty” is a collection of the sharp, witty, and often profound observations of George Carlin, one of America’s most iconic comedians. The book captures Carlin’s unique voice, offering a blend of humorous reflections, rants, and musings on the absurdities of life, language, and society. Carlin’s keen eye for the ridiculous and his fearless approach to taboo subjects make this book a provocative exploration of the human condition. Through a series of essays and thoughts, Carlin dissects everyday life with his trademark blend of cynicism and humor, providing readers with laughter and insight. This work is a testament to Carlin’s status as a critical thinker and comedian, offering a reflection on the world that is as thoughtful as it is entertaining.
Napalm and Silly Putty
My Thoughts
Growing up with George Carlin, this book reminded me of a ton of his musings and general jokes. While he can be pretty preachy at times, dirty at others, and still profound in others, he is hilarious!
Recommendation
Watch his stand up first. It is better with the visuals.
Published in 1995, “On Killing: The Psychological Cost of Learning to Kill in War and Society,” by Lt. Col. Dave Grossman, delves into the psychological impact of killing on soldiers and law enforcement officers. Grossman combines historical data, interviews, and psychological research to explore the resistance humans have to taking life and the techniques developed by the military to overcome this inhibition. The book examines the consequences of killing, including post-traumatic stress disorder and other long-term psychological effects. Grossman’s work is a seminal exploration of the complex interplay between the duty to kill in certain professions and the innate human aversion to taking life, offering crucial insights into the human psyche and the societal implications of institutionalized violence.
On Killing
My Thoughts
This book was not what I thought it was going to be. It shed new light on the personal struggles that men have had killing others for centuries. I was introduced to a side of the military I don’t often see and have more hope for humanity because of it.
Recommendation
This can be a rough book for those who are sensitive.
