10 Leadership Books To Read In 2025

Strong leadership skills are very important, especially when it comes to being successful in any field. To develop these skills, reading books from experienced leaders can provide valuable insights. Below, I made a list of 10 leadership books that every aspiring leader should read to enhance their ability to lead with confidence and impact.

1. The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership – John C. Maxwell

John C. Maxwell, a world-renowned leadership expert, outlines 21 fundamental principles that define great leaders. He explains laws such as "The Law of Influence," which states that leadership is not about titles but about impact, and "The Law of the Lid," which emphasizes that leadership ability determines effectiveness. This book is essential for anyone looking to build a strong foundation in leadership. Each chapter includes real-world examples, case studies, and action steps to help readers apply these laws to their daily lives. Maxwell’s insights have influenced thousands of leaders worldwide, making this book a must-read for those who want to maximize their potential.

2. Leaders Eat Last – Simon Sinek

In this book, Simon Sinek explores why some teams pull together and succeed while others fail. He explains how great leaders create environments of trust and safety, ensuring their team members feel valued. Drawing from real-world examples, Sinek highlights the importance of servant leadership and why prioritizing the well-being of employees fosters long-term success. The book delves into how the best leaders inspire loyalty by putting their teams first, leading to increased productivity, innovation, and morale. With powerful storytelling and deep research, Sinek makes a compelling case for why leadership rooted in empathy and trust creates thriving organizations.

3. Good to Great – Jim Collins

Jim Collins' research-backed book analyzes what makes good companies transform into great ones. He introduces key concepts such as "Level 5 Leadership," which emphasizes humility and unwavering resolve, and "The Hedgehog Concept," which focuses on what a company can excel at. This book is a must-read for leaders looking to take their organizations to the next level. Through years of research, Collins identifies specific traits and behaviors that distinguish great companies from their competitors. By applying these principles, leaders can build enduring businesses that sustain success over time, making this book a valuable resource for corporate strategy and leadership development.

4. Dare to Lead – Brené Brown

Brené Brown combines years of research on courage, vulnerability, and leadership in this transformative book. She argues that vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness, and that daring leaders embrace tough conversations and cultivate trust. The book provides actionable strategies for developing authentic leadership and building high-performing teams. Brown explores how embracing uncertainty and showing up with courage fosters innovation and resilience. She provides a framework for leaders to develop emotional intelligence, inspire creativity, and foster open communication. This book is perfect for those who want to lead with authenticity and create a culture of belonging in their workplace.

5. The 5 Levels of Leadership – John C. Maxwell

Another masterpiece from Maxwell, this book breaks leadership down into five progressive levels: Position, Permission, Production, People Development, and Pinnacle. It explains how leaders can advance from merely holding a title to inspiring and empowering others. If you want a structured roadmap to leadership growth, this book is invaluable. Each level builds upon the previous one, guiding readers through a clear path toward becoming highly influential leaders.

6. Extreme Ownership – Jocko Willink & Leif Babin

Written by two former Navy SEALs, this book emphasizes that leaders must take full responsibility for their teams' successes and failures. Using battlefield-tested lessons, Willink and Babin illustrate how extreme ownership fosters accountability and strong leadership. These principles are applicable to both military operations and corporate settings. The book teaches how to cultivate discipline, build trust, and make tough decisions under pressure.

7. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People – Stephen R. Covey

One of the most popular personal development and leadership books, Covey outlines seven essential habits that help individuals become effective leaders. From proactivity to synergy, this book provides a holistic approach to leadership and personal effectiveness, making it a staple for professionals worldwide. Covey’s principles guide readers in aligning their values with their actions, leading to sustainable success.

8. Start with Why – Simon Sinek

Sinek's book explores why leaders who inspire start with a clear purpose. He introduces the Golden Circle, which includes the "Why, How, and What" framework. Companies and individuals who define their "Why" are more successful, as they create authentic connections and inspire loyalty among customers and employees. By focusing on purpose rather than just profits, leaders can build passionate teams, foster customer engagement, and drive innovation.

9. The One Minute Manager – Ken Blanchard & Spencer Johnson

This concise book provides practical leadership insights through simple yet powerful techniques. The three key lessons – One Minute Goals, One Minute Praisings, and One Minute Reprimands – help leaders boost productivity and motivation within their teams. It's a must-read for those looking for a straightforward yet effective leadership guide. By implementing these easy-to-apply strategies, leaders can create a positive work environment where employees feel valued, recognized, and motivated to perform at their best, leading to greater organizational success and efficiency.

10. The Servant – James C. Hunter

This book explores servant leadership, emphasizing that true leaders serve others rather than exert control. Hunter provides a compelling story that demonstrates the power of humility, respect, and commitment in leadership. It is an essential read for those looking to lead with integrity and purpose.

Final Thoughts

These 10 leadership books provide invaluable insights into effective leadership, offering strategies to develop essential skills such as decision-making, communication, accountability, and team-building.