December 2021 TD Authors: What's on Your Bookshelf?

Contributors to the December 2021 issue of TD magazine offer their book recommendations.

Amy Posey

Weird: The Power of Being an Outsider in an Insider World by Olga Khazan

Khazan's book resonated and reinforced what I've known for a while: There are real benefits of embracing your weirdness beyond the learning domain. Hearing others' stories on how being a weirdo provides a foundation for adaptability, individuality, and standing up for what's right was a feel-good read for me and may make you reflect on how you can be comfortable in your weirdness.

No Hard Feelings: The Secret Power of Embracing Emotions at Work by Liz Fosslein and Mollie West Duffy

This book not only delves into the weird world of emotions at work, it does so with practical advice and awesome cartoons. Who doesn’t enjoy a cartoon book? It makes light of the awkward situations we get ourselves into as well as gives great ideas on how to muddle through and learn from them.

Tiffany Lombardo

Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World that Can't Stop Talking by Susan Cain

This book really opened my eyes to how I process the world and get my energy. It's also helped me in the workplace because I know that it's OK to not have all the answers right away since I take more time to process information and reflect.

Map It: The Hands-on Guide to Strategic Training Design by Cathy Moore

Moore is my instructional design idol. I took her classes about five years ago and they changed the way I look at content. By following her approach, I can ensure I’m creating the most engaging and effective learning experiences possible for my clients.

Jennifer Currence

What Got You Here Won't Get You There: How Successful People Become Even More Successful by Marshall Goldsmith

To develop as a leader, you must be open to doing things differently even if they've provided you with success in the past. You probably don't have the same smartphone you did five years ago, so why would you use the same leadership tools you did five years ago?

Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts by Brene Brown

This book is a culmination of Brown’s previous books, all focused on the benefits of embracing vulnerability and wholeheartedness. As a wholehearted leader, you are more self-aware and authentic, and therefore more able to connect with and grow your teams and your business.