News and blog articles from Hancock Whitney Bank

Our key takeaways from the books we read in 2016

Written by W. Dan Marks | Dec 30, 2016 12:00:00 PM
When we asked the thought leaders of our company to share what books they read in 2016 and the lessons they learned, the responses were as varied as the individuals themselves. The insights gleaned from these books helped us think about business and life from a fresh or historical perspective. We're excited to share them with you.
 
 

Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow

Recommended by Liza Cuthbert

While I was originally drawn to this book due to my interest in the Broadway musical, it’s a must-read for anyone interested in our Founding Fathers, the Constitution and the birth of our financial system.

 

The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz

Recommended by Richter Fridman

Applying the four agreements on a daily basis helps the reader create a set of personal values that can span personal life, work life, social life, and spiritual life.

 
 
 

Digital Gold by Nathaniel Popper

Recommended by Josh Caldwell

A history of Bitcoin that is topical to our industry and insightful to its potential applications.

 

The Travelers Gift by Andy Andrews

Recommended by Jamie Lipham

Gives real perspective on life's twists and turns and what real people did to overcome them. You leave the book with 7 great decisions you have to make personally.

 

The Five Temptations of a CEO by Patrick Lencioni

Recommended by Shane Loper

Leadership fable that puts leaderships choices squarely in your face. Easy read and applies to all leaders, not just CEOs.

 

   

  Lawrence in Arabia by Scott Anderson

The World's Largest Man by Harrison Scott Key

Recommended by Dan Marks

I read Lawrence in Arabia because I wanted to learn more about the changes in the Middle East that occurred about a hundred years ago to better understand current dynamics in the region. My friend wrote The World's Largest Man about his experiences growing up in the South. Hilarious and poignant.

 

Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg

Recommended by Allison Gray

Focused on encouraging women to pursue their ambitions, and changing the conversation from what we can’t do to what we can do.

 

 

Innovating Out of Crisis by Shigetaka Komori

Recommended by RoAnna Chenault

How the CEO of Fujifilm overcame the technology shift in imaging from film to digital and repositioned his company to be a market leader not only in imaging products, but LCD materials, cosmetics and medical equipment.

 

The Design of Everyday Things by Donald Norman

Recommended by Jennifer Wilson

Have you ever been confused about whether to push or pull a door? Knowing what button to push? Or why shopping in one store is so much more pleasant than another? This book provides a framework to help understand how to make everyday tasks simple and pleasant.

 

Developing the Leaders Around You by John C. Maxwell

Recommended by Resa Frey

Developing existing and emerging leaders is key for the growth of any organization.  Good insight into developing a leadership culture.

  

We hope you find this list enjoyable, and invite you to share this blog with friends and contacts in your networks. For regular information, news, and updates delivered directly to your inbox, subscribe to Insights by adding your email to the form below.
 

Book cover images from Amazon.com