Elevate your leadership skills with these three groundbreaking books in 2026.
The Gabba, The Paddo, and the Essential Reads for Leaders in 2026
Picture this: I was enjoying a relaxing morning on my back deck, soaking in the atmosphere of day two of the Brisbane Test.
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On that particular morning, I was surrounded by a few friends as we wrapped up breakfast, engaging in lively discussions about business dynamics and life experiences. We were gearing up for the excitement that awaited us at the Gabba, followed by a visit to the Paddington Tavern.
During our conversation, the topic of leadership, especially within the agricultural sector, emerged, and I was prompted to share my thoughts.
Reflecting on our discussion, I realized that the essence of what I addressed that morning—and what I deem crucial for our industry as we move into 2026—boils down to three pivotal books.
If you’re eager to enhance your business acumen or refine your leadership qualities this year, I highly recommend diving into these reads:
Good to Great by Jim Collins
In the world of agriculture, it’s all too easy to become complacent with "good enough" because simply surviving in an unpredictable market can feel like a triumph. However, Collins makes a compelling case that "good" is often the adversary of "great." He introduces the idea of Level 5 Leadership, which combines personal humility with professional resolve—qualities that modern producers truly require. It's about being persistently determined while ensuring you have the right individuals on your team before charting your course. If your team isn’t aligned, even the best strategy won’t yield results.Tribal Leadership by Logan, King, and Fischer-Wright
Every rural community and farm operates like a tribe. This insightful book delves into the various stages of workplace culture. Many organizations find themselves stagnating in Stage Three (where individuals adopt an attitude of "I’m great, and you’re not"), fostering division and rivalries among peers. To thrive in 2026, we must aspire to reach Stage Four ("We’re great"). By transforming the conversation from "me" to "we," the tribe collectively embraces its mission, allowing the leader to take a step back as the momentum builds organically.Legacy by James Kerr
Dubbed the bible of the All Blacks rugby team, this book centers around the principle that "better people make better All Blacks"—a philosophy we should integrate into our own businesses. In a rural setting, this translates to the idea that to excel as a manager or producer, one must first focus on becoming a better individual. Kerr’s concept of "sweeping the sheds" serves as a reminder that no role is too significant for anyone to handle minor tasks. It emphasizes stewardship, implying that we should strive to leave our land and industry in a more favorable condition than we found it.
As we navigate the complexities of 2026, keep in mind that the growth of your business will mirror your personal development. These aren’t merely books; they are essential tools designed to ensure that when challenges arise, you’re not just enduring but actively leading the charge.
— Ed Ross, Founder of TradeMutt
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