As we usher in 2026, it's the perfect moment to update your reading list with a selection of business books designed to elevate your practice. Inspired by the concept of the SportsCenter Top 10 Plays, I've compiled a list of ten impactful books that provide valuable insights into various facets of business management and personal development. This annual tradition aims to offer fresh perspectives and practical advice for practice owners and professionals alike.
With the holiday season in full swing, many businesses are eager to transition from operating "in the red" to "in the black." For practice owners, this is an ideal time to reflect on strategies to maintain consistent profitability. The following books are centered around essential themes that can guide you in achieving this objective.
Productivity: "The 10X Rule" by Grant Cardone
Grant Cardone's "The 10X Rule" focuses on the significance of setting ambitious goals and taking massive action to achieve them. The book encourages readers to aim ten times higher than their initial targets and to exert ten times the effort. This mindset can lead to extraordinary success by overcoming common pitfalls such as underestimating plans or focusing too much on competition.
Connection to the practice: In both life and business, it's crucial not to settle and to aim for significant goals. Establishing weekly or monthly targets can help track progress and drive success for your practice and patients.
Motivation: "Relentless" by Tim Grover
Tim Grover's "Relentless" delves into the mindset required to achieve greatness, drawing from his experience as Kobe Bryant's personal trainer. The book highlights the importance of loving the hard work and process involved in becoming dominant in any field.
Connection to the practice: Embrace the passion and motivation that led you to become an optometrist. Whether it's helping a child with myopia management or providing comprehensive eye care, the love for your profession is a powerful motivator.
Leadership: "You Can Negotiate Anything" by Herb Cohen
Herb Cohen's classic book on negotiation provides insights into how almost everything in life is negotiable. Cohen offers strategies for effective negotiation by posing three critical questions about comfort, needs, and the value of negotiation.
Connection to the practice: Negotiation is a daily part of practice management, whether with patients, co-workers, or insurance companies. Developing strong negotiation skills can lead to better outcomes and success.
Psychology: "The 4-Dimensional Manager" by Julie Straw
Julie Straw's book introduces the DISC assessment, a tool for understanding and managing people based on their dominant traits. This approach can help align job functions with the right individuals for optimal performance.
Connection to the practice: Conducting assessments when hiring staff ensures that roles are filled by individuals whose traits align with job requirements, enhancing overall business efficiency.
Personal Finance: "Invested" by Danielle and Phil Town
"Invested" offers a 12-month plan for financial freedom, drawing on the investment philosophies of Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger. The book emphasizes value investing and emotional management to avoid impulsive decisions.
Connection to the practice: Separating personal and business finances is crucial. Collaborating with a financial professional familiar with the optometry industry can help develop a comprehensive plan for financial success.
Communications: "How To Communicate Effectively With Anyone, Anywhere" by Raul Sanchez and Dan Bullock
This book underscores the importance of understanding both the topic and the audience in communication. Effective storytelling and non-verbal cues can significantly enhance message delivery.
Connection to the practice: Effective communication with patients and colleagues is vital. Use storytelling and examples to convey the importance of treatments and products, ensuring clear and impactful interactions.
Self Help: "The Subtle Art Of Not Giving A #@%!|" by Mark Manson
Mark Manson's book challenges readers to confront life's difficulties and take action despite fear. It highlights how facing failures can lead to greater understanding and success.
Connection to the practice: Overcoming the fear of failure is essential in business. Taking calculated risks can lead to breakthroughs and growth, so don't hesitate to pursue new opportunities.
Nutrition: "Eat Smarter" by Shawn Stevenson
Shawn Stevenson explores the impact of nutrition on physical and cognitive health. The book offers insights into making healthier food choices to improve overall well-being.
Connection to the practice: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial for preventing burnout and achieving work-life balance. Prioritize sleep, nutrition, and exercise to be at your best for your patients.
Personal Development: "Rejection Proof" by Jia Jiang
Jia Jiang's journey of facing rejection head-on offers lessons in resilience and overcoming fear. His 100-day challenge demonstrates that rejection can be an opportunity for growth.
Connection to the practice: Don't fear rejection when negotiating salaries or offering products to patients. Embrace the possibility of "no" as a chance to learn and improve.
Business: "Choose Your Enemies Wisely" by Patrick Bet David
Patrick Bet David's book advises entrepreneurs to create effective business plans that are both emotional and logical. Identifying and understanding your competition is crucial for success.
Connection to the practice: Recognize the challenges posed by competitors and use them as motivation to innovate and improve your practice. Study your competition to gain an edge in the industry.
In conclusion, these books offer valuable insights to enhance your practice and personal growth. As Dr. Seuss famously said, "The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you will go!" Embrace the knowledge and strive for success in 2026.