What do innovation and change consultants read on holiday (and why)?

I made it, dear reader! A nine day sojourn to the South of France and back with eleven hours to spare before quarantine kicked in. But it wasn’t all sun, sand, art, wine and ice cream. For me, holidays are a time to reflect and think, so here is my reading list for Summer 2020.

1. The Parade by Dave Eggers. Humorous, clever writing, strong narrative but boy does it pack a punch at the end.
2. About Looking by John Berger. Thought provoking collection of essays which have stood the test of time. Always insightful and plenty to reflect on.
3. Strategic Acceleration by Tony Jeary. A methodology which does what it says on the tin with useful exercises. Has kickstarted one project already and accelerated a second.
4. The Plague by Albert Camus. It wouldn’t be France for me without at least one Camus. Timely reminder of what happens in pandemics told in the way only Albert can.
5. Transitions by William Bridges. Highlighted to be as a change management book and draws a clear distinction between change and transitions. Moving, thoughtful, emotional and tested me. One key takeaway is that without making time to navigate ourselves through transitions, all change is just ‘rearranging the furniture’. Read it – but be advised it might affect you.
6. It’s Not About You by Tom Rath. Short, punchy and a good reminder we’re here to do more than fulfil our own needs.
7. Man Alone With Himself by Friedrich Nietzche. I do like my philosophy on holiday. Somewhat of a rant in places but suitably thought provoking and inspired some meaningful thinking.
8. Mindful Listening (HBR Emotional Intelligence series). Short, pithy collection of articles on the why and how of effective (active) listening, what it does for relationships and outcomes and why the investment is worth it. Not always new but an important reminder.
9. Tiny Habits by BJ Fogg. Game changer. I love psychology and am a real fan of the value of habits but this was excellent and has caused me to rethink my business model provision. It’s all about the behaviours and they start small, easy and celebratory.
10. Vintage 1954 by Antoine Laurain. My fourth favourite French author (Camus is number one). A delightful read, laugh out loud funny in places and beautifully told. Highly recommended.

So there we go. A mix of style, content and subject but fulfilled many happy hours on the beach, in cafes and apres dinner. Pick one or two and dive in. I promise you won’t regret it.