Books about Values
Many books — from self-help to spirituality and business — touch on the subject of core values. Humans have contemplated this subject for thousands of years, asking the question, “What is most important to me — and to us as a group?”
When our survival values are met, we naturally start seeking meaning — and we find it in belonging, growth, and impact.
To help you on your learning journey, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most impactful books about values.
Start With Values
Author: Bradley Hook
Genre: Self-improvement
Published: 2024
Summary: This book takes readers on a journey through the science and practice of core values, including a robust values discovery process, tools for decision-making, and how to perform a “junk values” audit. It provides a blueprint for leading a values-aligned life, including how to articulate and share your values clearly. It touches on values-based courageous conversations, family values, and co-creating corporate values.
Conscious Business
Author: Fred Kofman
Published: 2013
Genre: Leadership, Business
Summary: This book explores how leaders can align their actions with their deepest values, leading to more conscious and impactful leadership. Kofman emphasizes the importance of integrity, authenticity, and responsibility in leadership, providing practical advice and exercises to help leaders stay true to their values in the workplace.
Dare to Lead
Author: Brené Brown
Published: 2018
Genre: Leadership, Self-Development
Summary: Brown dives into the importance of courage and vulnerability in leadership. She outlines how embracing our core values helps us lead with empathy and resilience. The book is filled with actionable insights and tools for leaders to create a culture of trust and connection.
The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People
Author: Stephen R. Covey
Published: 1989
Genre: Self-Development, Business
Summary: Covey’s classic book highlights the importance of aligning actions with personal and professional values. Each habit he describes is rooted in principles that promote integrity, fairness, and human dignity, making it a timeless guide for value-driven living and leadership.
Principles
Author: Ray Dalio
Published: 2017
Genre: Business, Self-Development
Summary: Dalio shares his life and work principles that have shaped his successful career. The book underscores the importance of having clear, well-defined values that guide decision-making processes. Dalio’s principles focus on transparency, radical truth, and radical transparency.
Start with Why
Author: Simon Sinek
Published: 2009
Genre: Leadership, Business
Summary: Sinek argues that great leaders inspire action by communicating their ‘why’—the core values and beliefs that drive them. The book emphasizes the importance of leading with purpose and aligning actions with core values to inspire and motivate others.
The Values Factor
Author: John F. Demartini
Published: 2013
Genre: Self-Development
Summary: Demartini explores how understanding and living by our highest values can lead to greater fulfillment and success. He provides practical exercises to help readers identify their core values and align their lives accordingly, making values central to achieving personal and professional goals.
True North
Author: Bill George
Published: 2007
Genre: Leadership, Self-Development
Summary: George discusses how leaders can discover their authentic leadership by aligning with their core values. The book is based on interviews with 125 successful leaders and provides a roadmap for leading with integrity and authenticity.
Man’s Search for Meaning
Author: Viktor E. Frankl
Published: 1946
Genre: Self-Development, Philosophy
Summary: Frankl’s memoir and psychological exploration emphasize the importance of finding meaning and purpose in life. He discusses how values play a crucial role in enduring suffering and leading a fulfilling life, making it a profound guide for anyone seeking to live with purpose.
The Five Dysfunctions of a Team
Author: Patrick Lencioni
Published: 2002
Genre: Business, Leadership
Summary: Lencioni’s book outlines the common pitfalls that teams face and how core values can help overcome them. The narrative-driven book provides practical advice on building cohesive, value-driven teams that work effectively together.
Drive
Author: Daniel H. Pink
Published: 2009
Genre: Business, Self-Development
Summary: Pink explores the psychology of motivation, emphasizing the importance of intrinsic values like autonomy, mastery, and purpose. The book argues that aligning work with these core values leads to greater motivation and satisfaction, offering insights for both individuals and leaders.
