January 6, 2012 // Top Three Books Read in 2011 As many of you know, I love to read. In fact, some of you have been members of my book club for a while. As we close out 2011 and enter 2012, here are my three favorites from 2011 - and why. 1. Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel Pink Pink makes the case that it takes three elements for an organization to motivate its team: purpose, autonomy, and mastery. Why did I like this book so much? Pink's conclusions are data-driven; they're not just his opinions. He cites multiple studies conducted over the years by institutions like Harvard, Stanford, Wharton, and others. It's an easy read, very practical, and, most of all, it reminded me of Frank Moran, founder and former managing partner of Plante Moran, where I had the privilege of spending many years. Read more reviews and order from Amazon. 2. Thou Shall Prosper: Ten Commandments for Making Money by Rabbi Daniel Lapin Rabbi Lapin, a modern orthodox rabbi, wrote this book to help his readers understand why Jews have been so successful in business over the centuries. He bases his comments and conclusions on the Torah, the Talmud, and the Hebrew language. Why did I like this book so much? Rabbi Lapin makes a strong case for the importance of for-profit businesses. In addition to his stated purpose, he covers a variety of other useful business subjects - including retirement. As a businessman, I found the book to be refreshing and very encouraging. Read more reviews and order from Amazon. 3. Necessary Endings: The Employees, Businesses, and Relationships That All of Us Have to Give Up In Order to Move Forward by Dr. Henry Cloud This book provides some extremely practical advice on dealing with team members who have not grown with the company, are in the wrong position, or need to leave the company. When I read it, I thought of so many businesses that are being held back by one key person. Why did I like this book so much? The advice is both compelling and useful. I have recommended this book to a number of owners/executives already. Read more reviews and order from Amazon. What are your favorite books? Why? Email me and let me know: [email protected] Seek. Climb. Lead.