Leadership development does not happen only in training rooms or mentoring sessions. It also happens through reflection — by taking time to read, question our own habits and look at leadership from new perspectives.
As part of the Her Turn programme, our mentors shared three book recommendations that can support women on their leadership journey. Each book approaches leadership from a slightly different angle: mindset, career growth and purpose-driven leadership.
1. Leadership Mindset 2.0
R. Michael Anderson
This book explores leadership through the lens of psychology and neuroscience. It focuses on how our mindset shapes the way we lead, make decisions and respond to challenges. Rather than looking only at external leadership skills, the book invites readers to look inward: how we think, how we manage emotions and how we build the mental foundations needed to reach our full potential.
For Her Turn participants, this is a useful read for strengthening self-awareness and understanding how inner confidence, resilience and mindset influence leadership in practice.
2. How Women Rise
Sally Helgesen and Marshall Goldsmith
How Women Rise looks at the habits that can hold women back from their next raise, promotion or leadership opportunity. The book does not suggest that women need to become someone else in order to succeed. Instead, it helps readers recognise patterns that may limit their visibility, confidence or influence — and offers practical ways to move beyond them.
This is a strong recommendation for women who are ready to take the next step in their career, but want to better understand what may be standing in their way.
3. How Remarkable Women Lead
Joanna Barsh and Susie Cranston
Based on research from the Centered Leadership Project, this book shares insights from women leaders across different fields and explores what makes their leadership meaningful and effective. It introduces a model built around purpose, energy, relationships and resilience — showing that leadership is not only about position, but also about knowing what matters to you and leading from that place.
For Her Turn, this book connects strongly with the idea that leadership can be authentic, values-based and deeply personal.
