Recommended Reads for Graduates
It’s that time of year, and congratulations are in order. Thousands of students are starting careers, moving away for the first time, managing their own budgets, and entering the proverbial “real world”. Which leads us to the question: “If you had one piece of advice to give to a graduate, what would it be?” Luckily, many of our motivational keynote speakers have attempted to answer that question, not just for graduates but audiences everywhere, imparting words of wisdom on how to be your best self, how to make a difference and how to be a leader. So, as you shop for that perfect graduation gift, consider our top picks of best-selling books for graduates by some AMAZING keynote speakers.
Richard’s Pick
“What Do You Want to Do Before You Die?” by Ben Nemtin, Dave Lingwood, Duncan Penn, and Jonnie Penn (of The Buried Life)
In the summer of 2006, four best friends embarked on a two-week road trip to complete a list of 100 things to do before they die and to encourage others to do the same. Twelve years, an MTV show, and basketball game with President Obama later, they are still crossing off items, fulfilling their dreams, and inspiring others all around the world.
Angela’s Pick
“StandOut 2.0: Assess Your Strengths, Find Your Edge, Win at Work” by Marcus Buckingham
StandOut 2.0 is a revolutionary book and tool that enables you to identify your strengths, and those of your team, and act on them. The original edition of StandOut provided top-notch insights from one of the world’s foremost authorities on strengths, as well as access to a powerful, cutting-edge online assessment tool. StandOut 2.0 also includes the assessment and a robust report on your most dominant strengths.
Jenny’s Pick
“If God Gave Your Graduation Speech: Unforgettable Words of Wisdom from the One Who Knows Everything About You (Inspired Gifts Series)” by Jay Payleitner
With refreshing honesty, winsome humor and a keen understanding of human nature, Payleitner delivers a surprising and thought-provoking commencement address from God’s point of view. Every remark is a fresh and relevant restatement of truths found in Scripture, which are shown in subtle, yet profound footnotes at the bottom of each page.
Matt’s Pick
“The Happiness Advantage: The Seven Principles that Fuel Success and Performance at Work” by Shawn Achor
In The Happiness Advantage, Shawn Achor, who spent over a decade living, researching, and lecturing at Harvard University, uses stories and case studies from his work with thousands of Fortune 500 executives in 42 countries, to explain how we can reprogram our brains to become more positive in order to gain a competitive edge at work.
Stephen’s Pick
“The Purpose Driven Life: What on Earth Am I Here For?” by Rick Warren
The Purpose Driven Life is far more than just a book; it is a guide to a spiritual journey. Once you take this journey, you’ll never be the same again. Living out the purpose you were created for moves you beyond mere survival and success to a life of significance—the life you were meant to live.
Emily’s Pick
“Ten Things I Wish I’d Known – Before I Went Out into the Real World” by Maria Shriver
Award-winning broadcast journalist and NBC anchor-woman Maria Shriver reveals the lessons she has learned that have guided her journey as a career woman, wife and mother.
Jo’s Pick
“Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead” by Dr. Brene Brown
Every day we experience the uncertainty, risks, and emotional exposure that define what it means to be vulnerable or to dare greatly. Based on twelve years of pioneering research, Dr. Brené Brown dispels the cultural myth that vulnerability is weakness and argues that it is, in truth, our most accurate measure of courage. Brown explains how vulnerability is both the core of difficult emotions like fear, grief, and disappointment, and the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, empathy, innovation, and creativity.
Karen’s Pick
“How to Influence People: Make a Difference in Your World” by John C. Maxwell
How to Influence People will empower you to become a potent and positive influence in the lives of those around you without using a position or title. By “pouring your life into other people” (Dr. Maxwell’s definition of mentoring), “you can truly make a difference in their lives.” And when you make a difference in the lives of others, it makes a difference in your life too.
Call us today for more information on more inspirational leadership speakers at (901) 754-9404.
