Goals: Library
- personal995
- May 6, 2024
- 6 min read
Updated: Nov 12, 2025
Index
Purpose
Goals: Library is a section of Goals.
This page and section exists to provide a curated reading list for learning more about Goals.
“In my whole life, I have known no wise people (over a broad subject matter area) who didn’t read all the time—none. Zero."
Charlie Munger
Introduction
If we have referenced, or found a book, text or article to be foundational and useful, it will be listed throughout this section and also categorised for your reference below.
For your efficiency, the library provides a brief on why each book is included and why and for who it may prove to be of interest or useful.
New Developments in Goal Setting and Task Performance
Edited by Edwin A. Locke and Gary P. Latham
Overview: New Developments in Goal Setting and Task Performance is a comprehensive exploration of the science behind goal setting and its impact on motivation, productivity, and success. Edited by Edwin A. Locke and Gary P. Latham—pioneers in goal-setting theory—this book consolidates decades of research and introduces cutting-edge developments in understanding how goals influence behavior and performance.
Key points: The book delves into the principles of goal-setting theory, emphasizing the importance of specific, challenging goals in driving task performance. It examines how factors like feedback, self-efficacy, and organizational culture interact with goal setting to optimize outcomes. New developments include insights into the neurological and emotional underpinnings of goal-directed behavior, the role of goals in teamwork, and strategies for balancing short-term objectives with long-term aspirations. The editors also address potential pitfalls, such as overemphasis on goals leading to unethical behavior or burnout, and offer solutions for aligning individual and organizational goals.
Interest: This book is an invaluable resource for professionals, managers, and academics interested in enhancing productivity and performance through effective goal setting. Its insights are particularly relevant for those in leadership, organizational psychology, or human resources. Combining practical strategies with robust empirical evidence, this volume offers actionable tools for anyone aiming to maximize personal or team success while navigating the complexities of modern work environments.
Rethinking Positive Thinking: Inside the New Science of Motivation
by Gabriele Oettingen
Overview: Rethinking Positive Thinking by Gabriele Oettingen challenges the conventional wisdom that positivity alone leads to success. Drawing on decades of psychological research, Oettingen introduces a groundbreaking framework for motivation called WOOP (Wish, Outcome, Obstacle, Plan). This approach combines the power of positive thinking with a realistic examination of obstacles, offering a practical and scientifically supported method for achieving goals.
Key points: Oettingen reveals the limitations of unbridled optimism, showing that excessive positivity can sometimes hinder progress by creating complacency. Instead, she advocates for mental contrasting—a process of visualizing the desired outcome while acknowledging potential challenges. The WOOP method encourages individuals to identify their goals, imagine their achievement, anticipate barriers, and create actionable plans to overcome them. This blend of optimism and realism makes motivation more sustainable and goal attainment more achievable across personal, professional, and educational contexts.
Interest: This book is essential reading for anyone looking to understand the science of motivation and overcome the pitfalls of traditional positive thinking. It is particularly valuable for individuals seeking to achieve long-term goals, educators designing strategies for student success, and professionals in leadership or coaching roles. Oettingen’s insights provide a fresh, evidence-based perspective on motivation, empowering readers to turn their aspirations into actionable, realistic achievements.
Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln
by Doris Kearns Goodwin
Overview: Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln by Doris Kearns Goodwin offers a fascinating account of Abraham Lincoln's presidency, focusing on his leadership style and his relationships with his political opponents who later became members of his cabinet.
Key points: Goodwin explores how Lincoln skillfully navigated the challenges of the Civil War era by assembling a diverse team of advisors with differing viewpoints, harnessing their talents to achieve his vision of preserving the Union and ending slavery.
Interest: This book is essential for those interested in American history, leadership, and the dynamics of power, providing valuable insights into Lincoln's remarkable ability to unite a fractured nation and navigate the complexities of politics with empathy, wisdom, and strategic acumen.
Edison
by Edmund Morris
Overview: Edison by Edmund Morris offers a comprehensive biography of Thomas Edison, the prolific inventor whose innovations revolutionized modern life.
Key points: Morris delves into Edison's extraordinary career, highlighting his relentless work ethic, ingenuity, and entrepreneurial spirit, as well as the societal impact of his inventions such as the electric light bulb and phonograph.
Interest: This book is essential for those interested in the history of technology, entrepreneurship, and the life of one of America's most influential inventors, providing a compelling narrative of Edison's journey from humble beginnings to global recognition as a titan of industry and innovation.
Saint Joan
by George Bernard Shaw
Overview: Saint Joan by George Bernard Shaw is a thought-provoking play that explores the life and trial of Joan of Arc, the 15th-century French heroine and martyr.
Key points: Shaw examines Joan's unwavering faith, her defiance of traditional gender roles, and the political and religious forces that led to her trial and execution.
Interest: This play is essential for those interested in historical drama, religious and political history, and the complexities of individual conviction versus institutional power, offering a compelling exploration of one of history's most enigmatic figures.
The Last Lion Box Set: Winston Spencer Churchill
by Paul Reid and William Manchester
Overview: The Last Lion Box Set: Winston Spencer Churchill by Paul Reid and William Manchester is a monumental biography chronicling the life and times of Winston Churchill, one of the most influential figures of the 20th century.
Key points: Reid and Manchester provide a comprehensive exploration of Churchill's leadership during pivotal moments such as World War II, offering insights into his political acumen, courage, and indomitable spirit in the face of adversity.
Interest: This box set is indispensable for those interested in Churchill, World War II history, and the art of leadership, offering a richly detailed portrait of a statesman whose leadership and vision shaped the course of history.
East To The Dawn: The Life Of Amelia Earhart
by Susan Butler
Overview: East To The Dawn: The Life Of Amelia Earhart by Susan Butler is a comprehensive biography that traces the life, achievements, and mysterious disappearance of the pioneering aviator Amelia Earhart.
Key points: Butler delves into Earhart's adventurous spirit, her groundbreaking accomplishments in aviation, and her lasting impact on women's rights and the field of aviation.
Interest: This biography is essential for those fascinated by aviation history, women's history, and the enduring allure of Earhart's life and legacy, providing a nuanced portrait of a trailblazing figure whose courage and determination continue to inspire generations.
My Life And Work: The Autobiography Of Henry Ford
by Henry Ford
Overview: My Life And Work: The Autobiography Of Henry Ford by Henry Ford provides a firsthand account of the life and career of the renowned industrialist, offering insights into his pioneering efforts in automobile manufacturing and business philosophy.
Key points: Ford reflects on his experiences building the Ford Motor Company, introducing innovations such as the assembly line and advocating for principles such as mass production and fair wages.
Interest: This autobiography is essential for those interested in the history of industry, entrepreneurship, and the development of modern business practices, offering valuable lessons from one of the most influential figures in American business history.
The Campaigns of Alexander
by Arrian
Overview: The Campaigns of Alexander by Arrian is a detailed historical account of Alexander the Great's military conquests and exploits, chronicling his remarkable campaigns across the Persian Empire and beyond.
Key points: Arrian meticulously documents Alexander's strategic brilliance, leadership style, and military innovations, providing valuable insights into his tactics, alliances, and the challenges he faced.
Interest: This book is essential for those interested in ancient history, military strategy, and the legacy of Alexander the Great, offering a vivid portrayal of one of history's most legendary figures and his enduring impact on the ancient world.
The History of Alexander
by Quintus Curtius Rufus
Overview: The History of Alexander by Quintus Curtius Rufus is an ancient Roman account of the life and conquests of Alexander the Great, focusing on his military campaigns and political achievements.
Key points: Rufus provides a vivid narrative of Alexander's exploits, highlighting his courage, ambition, and strategic genius, as well as the cultural and political impact of his conquests.
Interest: This book is essential for those interested in classical history, military campaigns, and the legacy of Alexander the Great, offering valuable insights into one of the most influential figures of antiquity and his enduring impact on world history.
By reading the texts above you absorb over time the many wise, experienced and learned humans have come before us. There is no need to re live all their lessons ourselves. Take what they have learnt, their accumulated years of wisdom and efficiently use it to leverage the quality of your life and work.
Output Checklist
Completed Strategic Review Worksheet from The Workbook for approaching any Goals related opportunities or challenges, guided by all key learnings from this section.
Next Steps
If you feel you have key learnings to takeaway, return to Goals: Main to integrate into your Output Checklist.
If you feel you are still in explore and discovery mode, continue onto Goals.
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