Part of your journey must involve seeking wisdom outside of your own; it is necessary to your growth. No one ever became rich, financially or spiritually, without the influence, encouragement, or support of someone else.
Here are some links to my favorite authors, speakers, and teachers. Let me know who you would add to this list!
Andy Andrews – The Traveler’s Gift and Seven Decisions – Andy Andrews is my personal mentor. I have chosen to surround myself with his influence. I was given one of Andy’s ‘talks’ by a boss when I was fresh in the business world. Since then, I have been intentional about engaging Andy’s teaching. The first book above is a fictional tale of David Ponder and his gift of the Seven Decisions of Personal Success; the second is a textbook on understanding these decisions. These two books are the cornerstone for my growth and development as a husband, father, business owner, friend, writer…you get the picture! You can visit Andy’s site at www.andyandrews.com
Tom Morris – True Success – I refer to Tom as one of the wisest people I’ve ever encountered. I can hear Tom musing that I’ve not had enough encounters, but it is a very true statement! Tom is an incredible mind AND an incredible person. Very rarely do the two mingle in a way that invites an engaging relationship. Tom is considered by many as our country’s public philosopher. His book listed above is a roadmap for the ages and contains ancient wisdom on the pursuit of success. Tom has been an incredible encouragement in my writing and speaking and I am blessed by his friendship and support. You can visit Tom at www.morrisinstitute.com
Zig Ziglar – Better Than Good – Zig is the icon. As I started my career in sales, I was given numerous Zig literature to engage in. Zig’s wit and delivery create a style uniquely his own. Zig’s legacy lives on in his teaching and I encourage you to grab the book above as it is a great summary of his ideas. You can visit Zig at www.ziglar.com
Robert D. Smith – 20,000 Days and Counting… – I first discovered Robert through Andy Andrews as Robert has been Andy’s manager for the past three decades. However, Robert has an incredible story to tell of his own! Saying that Robert has a positive attitude would be like saying Michael Jordan plays basketball. Robert is probably THE most encouraging person you can find. His energy and excitement are revealed in his book above. YOU have to read it! Visit Robert at www.therobertd.com
Dave Ramsey – Entreleadership and The Total Money Makeover – I love Dave Ramsey’s story; from broken to blessed; from stupid to wise. Dave’s financial principles are terribly important to anyone who has even a dollar. Beyond his financial wisdom is his business mind. You can visit Dave at www.daveramsey.com
John Maxwell – 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader – It was this book, given to me as a graduation gift, that sparked my desire to be different. John has an incredible gift of imparting leadership principles and his countless books attest to his success at doing so. You can visit John at www.johnmaxwell.com
Jon Acuff – Quitter and Start – Jon writes about all things hustle. Jon is a dreamer and doesn’t stop there. He invites you into his story to dream together. His wit and transparency bring life as a dreamer into view. His inspiration was a catalyst to my blogging and writing. You can visit Jon at www.acuff.me
Matt – Jim Rohn is one of my favorite “Philosophers of Life”. His THE FIVE MAJOR PIECES OF THE LIFE PUZZLE andLEADING AN INSPIRED LIFE are excellent works full of insight and wisdom.
He is fantastic! Although I’ve never read his books I see his quotes everywhere. I will have to add those on to my list thanks Cork!
Hey Matt! I recently heard about you through a couple of different podcasts that I listen to, and I’m glad that I did, because I like what you’re about. I subscribed to yours, by the way! I too am a fan of John Maxwell and his books. I would add to the list; authors Dan Miller, Bill Johnson, Danny Silk, Robert Kiyosaki, and Kris Vallotton just to name a few. I’d pretty much read anything by each of those guys!
Hey Jason! Thanks for connecting and thanks for the suggestions. I look forward to the journey!