Get ready to elevate your leadership game with these three game-changing books for 2026!
As I sat on my backyard deck, the Brisbane Test loomed ahead, and so did an insightful conversation about leadership and the ag industry. It's time to dive into the books that will shape our industry's future.
The Power of Leadership: Unlocking Your Potential
- Good to Great: Unlocking the Secrets of High-Performing Teams by Jim Collins
In the challenging world of agriculture, we often settle for 'good enough.' But Collins challenges this mindset, arguing that 'good' is the obstacle to greatness. His Level 5 Leadership concept, a unique blend of humility and determination, is a game-changer for modern producers. It's about finding the right balance and ensuring you have the right team before setting off on your journey. After all, a strong strategy is nothing without a solid team.
- Tribal Leadership: Unleashing the Power of Culture by Logan, King, and Fischer-Wright
Every rural community is a tribe, and this book explores the different stages of culture within these tribes. Most workplaces get stuck in the 'I'm great, and you're not' phase, which creates barriers and a culture of competition. In 2026, we need to aim for Stage Four, where the tribe unites as 'We're great.' Shifting the focus from 'me' to 'we' empowers the team and creates a self-sustaining momentum.
- Legacy: The All Blacks Way by James Kerr
This book is a must-read for anyone looking to improve their leadership skills. The All Blacks' mantra, 'Better people make better All Blacks,' is a philosophy that can be applied to any business. In a rural setting, it means becoming a better leader starts with becoming a better person. Kerr's lesson on 'sweeping the sheds' reminds us that leadership is about humility and stewardship - leaving a positive impact on the land and the industry.
As we embark on 2026, remember that your business's growth is a reflection of your own growth. These books are more than just reads; they are tools to ensure you not only survive but thrive, leading the way forward.
Ed Ross, TradeMutt founder, encourages us to embrace these insights and take our leadership to the next level.
What do you think? Are these books a must-read for leaders in the ag industry? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's spark a conversation!
