A Whole New Mind | Daniel H. Pink
Pink describes the current transition from Information Age to Conceptual Age and how left-brain thinking (logical, analytical, sequential) is giving way to right-brain thinking (nonlinear, intuitive, holistic). This is great news for designers as Pink explains why empathetic, inventive, big-picture thinkers will thrive in the new age. There's an outstanding chapter on design.
Presentation Zen: Simple Ideas on Presentation Design + Delivery | G. Reynolds
When a selection committee member recently asked a client who'd gone through our Presentation Clarification process if they'd read Presentation Zen, they said no. They later asked me if I had. I laughed. Of course! I consider it the best book on the market for improving how you present.
The Power of Simplicity | Jack Trout
Though published in 1999, if you overlook some dated references and stories, this book is still brilliant at encouraging simplicity, which is increasingly important as we all face information clutter. His advocacy for clarity and being to the point is as refreshing as it is relevant today.
The Art of Original Thinking: The Making of a Thought Leader | Jan Phillips
An inspiring book that prompts us to "embrace the present, transcend dualities, and move from choas to clarity. Finally we can take responsibility for cocreating our world and actualize our capatcity to intitiate changes and create a sustainable future." Phillips emphasizes that leaders must take responsibility for knowing what they value and conveying that within their companies. Leaders with clarity of thought have the greatest success at inspiring and motivating workforces to have positive impact in the world.