Books have a way of expanding our perspectives, inspiring leadership, and sparking creativity. At Catalyst BPX, our team draws wisdom, motivation, and personal growth from a range of impactful reads. From developing better habits to learning the art of negotiation, these must-read books will help you thrive professionally and personally.
Ready to discover your next great read? Here are our team’s top picks and why they might just be the catalyst for your next breakthrough:
Never Split the Difference, How to Win Friends and Influence People, The Art of War, and Principles
Recommended by Alex, Co-Founder and Investor
Alex highlights four books that will equip professionals with essential strategies for success. Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss transforms how you approach negotiation and diplomacy—crucial for resolving conflicts and achieving win-win outcomes. How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie focuses on building meaningful, long-term relationships that fuel professional growth. The Art of War by Sun Tzu offers timeless strategies for overcoming life’s challenges, including those in business. Finally, Principles: Life and Work by Ray Dalio provides an innovative framework for managing both work and life with clarity and purpose.
Atomic Habits, Leaders Eat Last, and Ikigai
Recommended by Shierly, Head of Finance
Shierly’s top reads focus on building habits, leading with empathy, and finding purpose. Atomic Habits by James Clear is a practical guide to breaking bad habits and forming good ones through small, actionable steps—a game-changer for personal and professional growth. Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek reminds us that true leadership is about caring for your team, building trust, and creating a culture of collaboration. Finally, Ikigai explores how to find your purpose by reflecting on what you love, your strengths, and the value you can offer to the world.
Extreme Ownership, Play Nice but Win, and Good to Great
Recommended by Tyler, CRO, Co-Founder
Tyler recommends three transformative reads on leadership and business success. Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin redefines leadership as taking full responsibility, a principle that strengthens teams and drives success. Play Nice but Win by Michael Dell highlights how to build a thriving company in a competitive environment while staying true to values and ethics. Lastly, Good to Great by Jim Collins examines what separates exceptional companies from the rest and lays out a roadmap for achieving long-term greatness.
Changing on the Job and McKinsey’s Rewired
Recommended by Edna, CFO, Co-Founder
Edna shares two insightful reads for leaders navigating complex, fast-paced environments. Changing on the Job by Jennifer Garvey Berger introduces “vertical development,” encouraging leaders to shift how they think and adapt as they grow in their roles. For transformation practitioners, McKinsey’s Rewired is packed with actionable strategies for embedding agility, innovation, and sustainable change into organizations—an essential guide for leaders in today’s digital age.
Ego is the Enemy and Pugad Baboy
Recommended by Gilbert, IT & Systems Manager
Gilbert’s picks offer a mix of self-awareness and humor. Ego is the Enemy by Ryan Holiday is a profound exploration of how ego can hinder success and growth. By embracing humility, discipline, and resilience, readers can overcome barriers and focus on continuous learning. For a lighthearted yet sharp take on everyday life, Pugad Baboy by Pol Medina Jr. delivers witty, satirical commentary on Filipino culture, politics, and society. It’s both fun and thought-provoking, making it a unique must-read.
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo
Recommended by Darlyn, Marketing Automation
Prepare for an exciting journey with this wildly popular book. Follow Evelyn Hugo, a glamorous Hollywood legend, as her story unfolds with secrets, ambition, and heartbreak. This novel is a perfect escape, full of drama and twists while offering deep reflections on love, identity, and the sacrifices that come with success. Every chapter brings you closer to understanding Evelyn, making it an unforgettable and binge-worthy read.
These top leadership books, personal development reads, and thought-provoking stories reflect the diverse perspectives of our Catalyst BPX team. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your negotiation skills, form better habits, or explore timeless leadership principles, there’s something here for you.
What books have inspired you lately? Share your favorite recommendations in the comments!