Our colleagues’ summer reads
We are ready for the summer break. Pool, beach, mountain, wherever you decide you go, a book is always a great companion. And we were wondering what our experts are taking with them on their summer holiday? Luckily some of them decided to share their summer reading list and how they have a positive impact for them both personally and professionally.
Everyone is prepared for the summer. Whether it's the pool, beach, or mountains, a book can be a perfect companion. We're curious about what our colleagues will be bringing along to read on their summer trips. A few have chosen to reveal their reading lists for the season and discuss how these books positively affect them in both personal and professional aspects.
Guruduth, from Digitalization, shared with us two books he plans to read during his summer break. “The first one on my list is A Million Thoughts by Om Swami. I chose this book to deepen my spiritual understanding, focusing not only on productivity, but also mindfulness and self-discovery. Enhanced focus, mental clarity and overall well-being are certainly good examples to set as a community leader. It’s important to remember we need to put our own oxygen mask on first, to be able to help others around us.” He also plans to read is Atomic Habits by James Clear. “The author’s insights on habit formation and small changes leading to significant results resonate with me. Excellence lies in consistent, intentional habits and this book provides actionable strategies whether you’re optimizing processes or personal routines”.
Elien, from Research & Innovation, is diving into The Goal by Eliyahi Goldratt and Jeff Cox. “This novel takes us inside a struggling manufacturing plant, where the protagonist uncovers hidden bottlenecks. Bottlenecks are the limiting factors that impact overall efficiency. By addressing them, the plant can significantly improve productivity and throughput. An interesting book to learn from”. Her second read during this summer will be The Machine That Changed the World by James Womack. “Womack’s exploration of lean production principles revolutionized manufacturing. In this book you will learn about Toyota’s lean production system, as well as the importance of prioritizing value-added activities, empowering employees, and continuous learning to drive sustainable success”.
Barbara, from People & Organization, has a completely different taste in books. She has a penchant for suspense and thrillers. “My first read during the summer break will be The Lost Bookshop by Evie Woods, a book that caught my attention with its intriguing headline. The protagonist in this book states that books help you imagine a life bigger and better than you could ever dream of. It reminds us that everything in life is about envisioning possibilities beyond the ordinary.” Barbara’s second summer read is Verity, a novel recommended to her by a friend who knows her taste. “The novel is narrated from two different perspectives with which the reader can get a full insight of the story. Both at work and in life we sometimes require collaboration between various stakeholders and perspectives to contribute to the bigger picture of solving problems and mysteries”.
Menno, also from Digitalization, suggests the book “This book provides actionable insights for our operational excellence, emphasizing data-driven decision-making, transformation roadmaps, cultural shifts, and building essential enterprise capabilities.”
Whether you’re seeking spiritual growth, productivity hacks, thrilling escapes, or operational insights, these reads will inspire you to become a better version of yourself and embrace excellence. Enjoy!