Achieving Success "By the Book"

If you’re like me, you have been stumped a lot recently when loved ones and co-workers have asked you this question. “What do you want for Christmas?”

It’s kind of an easy question but it’s easy to feel humble and not ask for anything or it’s also common that you’ll freeze up and not think of anything you really want.

What’s Your Story?

I found that I used to be a great “book starter,” but I was a horrible “book finisher.” I was always starting books and then, the “shiny object” would catch my eye and I would head on to the next book. This was usually after I was about 10 chapters into one book. Before you knew it, I had started 5 or 6 books…but finished none.

In 2008, I became much more focused and disciplined to finish the books I started. To avoid getting distracted by that “new book” or “hot author,” I started four piles in my den:

• Sales books
• Leadership books
• Biographies
• Fiction/distractions/personal books

If someone suggested or handed me a book in one of these four categories, I would thank them, then place it at the bottom of the specific pile for which it fit. I really tried not to jump in to a new book before it was that book’s “turn.”

Regardless of what type/genre/style of book you like, there are plenty of worthwhile reads out there, so why not ask for a book for a gift this year. While you may be blessed to have amazing things in your life, there’s nothing like a new book. Depending on where your “are” in life, it just might be the best gift you could ever get.

Here are some “Book Recommendations” from The Realtor’s Toolbox that you might enjoy. (Click here so you can see the list of books)

– A “must read” for anyone in a leadership or management position

– The best book to begin to understand your Strengths and Weaknesses and how to manage around them to enjoy your career and life

No way you’ll be able to put this book down…unless you don’t like adventure and being proud to be an American. (Even my Canadian and Non-American readers will enjoy this page-turning true life story

You are either a leader or you are a follower. Both are needed. You just need to decide which one you’re better at.

– Learn about service outside of the real estate industry

– Funny how the “old school” techniques still work in today’s “new school” menatlity

– If you are golfer and know anything about the sport, this is a must read and a book that you won’t be able to put down once you begin

– If there is one thing everyone should be good at dealing with is “change” so if you need a crash course, here’s your book

– If your job involves dealing with people…in person…in 2012 and beyond, this might be just the book for you.

– Great ideas for real life success in today’s sales oriented world

– A powerful book if you’re hoping to stay in business for more than “one cycle” of sales.


– If you’re a Dead Head then this book is a must. If you’re trying to reach customers, clients or anyone who might be able to help you spread your message, I’d suggest checking this one out too.


– This is my #1 suggested/recommended book in today’s day of procrastination, finger-pointing and blame. It’s all about “personal accountability” and is one that I have sat down and read each New Year’s Eve for the last 6 years to “set my mind right” for the new year. If you are in a position of leadership (which is everyone on earth) this book needs to be on your “must read” list.

Full disclosure – All of these are Amazon Affiliate Links meaning that if you end up ordering from  them, I would earn a small portion of the books price as a referral fee. Order from wherever you want, I don’t care. It’s just easy to attach these books via links than have you visit a different site after reading this blog

So what are your favorite books? Which author is on your “must read” radar as soon as he/she releases a new book? Share it in the comment s below and maybe someone else will learn something from you in 2012.

Regardless of what you’re reading (or not reading), be sure to stay focused on building relationships, solving problems and having fun.