4 Books That Shaped How I Build and Execute
Some books hit at the right time and never leave you. These four sit at the core of how I approach strategy and execution at NBD Concepts & Consulting — they’re practical, inspiring, and just weird enough to keep me curious.
Got a favorite business book I should add to my list? I’m always swapping ideas and building the next stack — book a call or drop me a note. Let’s trade notes.
Flow — by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi
Why I read it: To understand why some work feels effortless and some feels impossible.
Takeaway: True engagement happens at the edge of challenge and skill — that’s where growth (and joy) lives.
How I use it: I structure deep work sprints for myself and clients around this concept — 90 minutes, no distractions, full send.
The Radical Leap - Steve Farber
Why I read it: To get re‑inspired about leadership when it feels messy.
Takeaway: Love, Energy, Audacity, and Proof (LEAP) — leadership is personal, bold, and contagious.
How I use it: Every big move I’ve made (New West KnifeWorks expansions, starting NBD) came with audacity and proof — not just plans.
Drive — by Daniel Pink
Why I read it: To explore what really motivates people (spoiler: not money alone).
Takeaway: Autonomy, mastery, and purpose outperform carrot‑and‑stick incentives every time.
How I use it: When aligning teams or building client culture, I look for ways to give people control, growth, and meaning in the work.
Traction — by Gino Wickman
Why I read it: To cut through chaos and install a system that actually works.
Takeaway: The Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) isn’t just a framework — it’s a reality check. Scorecards, rocks, and weekly level‑10 meetings keep vision grounded in measurable progress.
How I use it: Client sprints, priority alignment, and making sure no one forgets why we’re doing the work.
