In this quick 3 minute read, I share three books that profoundly shape how I coach teams and managers
Yes, I love CliftonStrengths, born from Gallup’s extensive research. But I’m constantly reading and learning and these books transformed my coaching. These authors have deeply influenced me both personally and professionally - so much I even allow them into my inbox and I’m highly selective about that!
1. Brené Brown: The Science of Human Connection
If you’ve had a coaching session with me, I’ve likely recommended one of her books. Brené is a powerhouse in personal development and connection.
Her authentic, practical, research-backed books have profoundly shaped my coaching practice and my life. One of my favorites is The Gifts of Imperfection—a must-read for everyone.
The key idea that stays with me is simple yet profound: we are built for connection, but connection is hard to achieve. It requires deliberate attention, a principle that aligns perfectly with Strengths-based development, which emphasizes our innate need for one another.
"We are built for connection, and connection is hard to achieve"
2. James Clear: The Science of Implementing Change
I resisted reading his book on habits for years, but I couldn’t ignore the impact of his work.
Atomic Habits aligns seamlessly with Strengths-based development, offering clear, actionable insights into how we can become the people we aspire to be.
What resonates with me most is his idea that meaningful, lasting change comes from making it easy and tying it to our identity. This echoes the CliftonStrengths approach—our strengths and growth are deeply connected to who we are.
"meaningful, lasting change comes from making it easy and tying it to our identity "
3. Deb Dana: The Science of the Nervous System
Deb Dana’s work was a game-changer for me, filling a missing piece in my understanding of thriving.
Her research on the nervous system made me realize that if we’re stuck in fight, flight, or freeze mode, our first priority must be on paying attention to and calming our body. (turns out sometimes our talents can help or hinder us with this!)
Her core message is that without a calm nervous system, connection, curiosity, and compassion are out of reach. Strengths can help in this essential work. By attending to our physical bodies, we open the door to those higher-level human experiences.
"without a calm nervous system, connection, curiosity, and compassion are out of reach"
To conclude
The three books that transformed my coaching:
Brené Brown: The Science of Human Connection Brown’s research shows that while we are wired for connection, it requires effort and attention. Her books, like The Gifts of Imperfection, have profoundly shaped how I coach, emphasizing the importance of relationships and connection.
James Clear: The Science of Implementing Change Clear’s Atomic Habits aligns with Strengths-based development by showing that meaningful change comes from making it easy and tying it to your identity. His approach offers practical, research-backed steps for growth and improvement.
Deb Dana: The Science of the Nervous System Dana’s work highlights that when our nervous system is stuck in stress, the first step to thriving is calming our body. Without this, connection, curiosity, and compassion are impossible, but once we address it, higher-level experiences become accessible.
About the author Hi I'm Lacey, a CliftonStrengths coach based in New Zealand who's passionate about helping managers and teams thrive, not just survive. I'm also a creative introvert, wife, mum and an avid fan of both exercise and donuts! If you're keen to begin or continue your CliftonStrengths journey, drop me a line or book a free chat
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