Why the Most Successful Business Leaders Still Swear by Daily Reading—And What They’re Reading in 2025
In an era dominated by AI-driven summaries, fast-paced news cycles, and 15-second attention spans, one surprisingly “old-school” habit remains a cornerstone of top-performing CEOs and entrepreneurs: reading books—every single day.
From Warren Buffett to Oprah Winfrey, from Elon Musk to Melinda Gates, the habit of consistent, deliberate reading continues to distinguish those who lead from those who follow. In fact, a growing body of research suggests that immersive reading—especially fiction and long-form narratives—enhances cognitive empathy, strategic thinking, and decision-making under pressure.
“Reading gives you a mental edge,” says Susan Chan, executive coach and author of Cognitive Clarity for Executives. “You’re not just absorbing information; you’re training your brain to think critically and creatively at scale.”
Fiction in the Boardroom?
Surprisingly, more executives are turning to thrillers and emotional fiction to decompress and expand perspective. Titles by authors like David Baldacci, known for high-stakes legal and political suspense, and Q.B. Tyler, whose emotionally intense romance novels have found a passionate audience, are making their way into Kindle libraries and carry-on luggage.
Curious about reading David Baldacci’s novels in the right order? Here’s a helpful guide that organizes them by both publication and chronology—so you won’t get lost in the Camel Club.
And if your tastes lean toward contemporary romance with emotionally rich characters, Q.B. Tyler’s book list is gaining buzz not just on BookTok, but even in quiet corners of finance Twitter.
Building Your Competitive Edge
Smart professionals are now scheduling “reading hours” into their calendars—treating them with the same importance as investor meetings or strategic off-sites. Companies like LinkedIn and Salesforce even offer internal book clubs, sometimes guided by leadership coaches.
If you’re looking to build your own reading habit, consider tools like Booktorium, which helps you easily track books in order by author and series—ideal for busy minds who like structure and efficiency. It’s always up to date and built for those who want to go deep, not just wide.