Great leaders are lifelong learners because they know leadership is a skill that’s always evolving. By constantly reading and learning, you gain a wealth of knowledge that helps you make smarter, more informed decisions. This continuous growth gives you the tools to solve problems, adapt to change, and stay ahead of the curve.
You also set a strong example for your teams — showing that learning isn’t just a one-time thing but something you keep on doing to grow both personally and professionally. It creates a culture where curiosity and innovation thrive. Plus, reading a variety of books — on leadership, psychology, or even history — helps you gain fresh perspectives and better understand human behaviour, deepens your empathy and emotionally intelligence.
Being a great leader doesn’t happen overnight; it’s about building habits and continually improving. By consistently reading and learning, you not only stay sharp, you also become better at handling change, thinking strategically, and leading by example. It’s all about showing up every day, staying curious, and being open to new ideas.
Books Worth Reading
So many wonderful books, so little time. Here are some of the better ones…
Videos, Podcasts & Articles
A lot of smart people out there. Here are some their great talks, videos, articles and resources
The 5-Hour Rule
A simple way to make time to learn and grow as a leader is to follow the 5-Hour Rule. The idea is to spend at least five hours a week – or about an hour a day – doing something that helps you learn, whether that’s reading, watching educational videos, listening to podcasts, or practicing a new skill.
It’s all about building a regular habit of learning, so over time, you can pick up new knowledge and keep improving. It’s a simple way to make sure you’re always getting better at what you love to do.
Key Points:
- Five hours a week: Just an hour a day or a bit more, dedicated to learning.
- Intentional learning: Make sure you’re actively learning, not just passing time.
- Self-growth: It’s about getting better, both personally and professionally.
- Flexible methods: You can read, take courses, or try out new things.
- Big rewards over time: Small efforts add up and can make a big difference long-term.