Close Menu
Saturday, January 24
Latest From Firearms Newsletter
News

Personal Development and Leadership Books for the Vortex Nation

Tony GristBy 6 Mins Read
Personal Development and Leadership Books for the Vortex Nation

Reading is fundamental. Call it an axiom, adage, or aphorism, the phrase itself is fundamental. That’s why places like organizations from military academies to learning institutions so often have a recommended reading list of leadership and personal development books.

Corporations and business entities do as well, but I’ve never seen one embrace the concept more thoroughly than Vortex Optics. And I’m pretty sure that’s one of the key building blocks not only to their success, but to the loyalty and remarkable interactivity of the “Vortex Nation.”

“We don’t assign reading or require book clubs. We just believe the right book, at the right time, can light a spark. And around here, we’d rather inspire than insist.” ~ Vortex CEO Joe Hamilton

A Reading List for Success

I’m most familiar with the ones associated with the Profession of Arms. The most obvious is probably the Commandant’s Reading List, but there’s also the USMA (West Point) Reading List, the CNO’s Reading List, and one at The Citadel, not to mention the books recommended by Gen. Mattis. Hell, even the daughter from the Gilmore Girls had a list.

What surprised me in my recent visit to Vortex HQ in Barneveld, Wisconsin (besides the fact that “corn sweat” really is a thing) wasn’t that they had recommended reading for their employees; it was how seriously Vortex embraces the notion, and how emblematic of their company’s ethos their list really is.

One of several "little libraries" scattered throughout the Vortex Optics facility.

This isn’t just a list of business bestsellers. It’s a reflection of the Vortex ethos, centered on effective servant leadership, team dynamics, recognition of self-worth, and the subordination of ego. Perhaps most importantly, it’s about the notion that giving is as good or better for the giver than the givee.

The implementation of the idea was apparently a bit of a joint effort, but was spearheaded from the top (with suggestions welcomed).

Asked how the little library concept started, Vortex CEO Joe Hamilton explained,

“Some of the most meaningful shifts in how we lead and serve have come from the pages of a good book. My assistant, Denise, knew that, and one day she pitched the idea of setting up little libraries around Vortex. It was simple, thoughtful, and spot on. Our facilities team built them, Denise keeps them filled, and now they’re free for anyone: employees, visitors, whoever. We don’t assign reading or require book clubs. We just believe the right book, at the right time, can light a spark. And around here, we’d rather inspire than insist.”

Little Libraries Everywhere

They take this concept so seriously that there are little “libraries” scattered all through their entire sprawling facility (eight in total, I believe). You can’t go very far without passing one, no matter where you are in the place, and all the books are free for the taking. Any employee can take any book they’d like at any time, and if I understood them correctly, the same goes for members of the public who visit.

Now, what makes this even more striking (and should be kept in mind) is that Vortex is an employee-owned business. That means, at least in theory, that whatever is representative of the company is by definition representative of its employees. Obviously, the extent of this will vary, and it won’t always be true (even the nicest pool could get a turd floating in it), but I observed nothing during my visit that didn’t support this part of the company’s culture.

Gen. James Mattis, USMC retired (shown here against a backdrop of books) is known for his belief that reading is extremely important, particularly for leaders or would-be leaders. As he has said before, "Thanks to my reading, I have never been caught flat-footed by any situation, never at a loss for how any problem has been addressed (successfully or unsuccessfully) before. It doesn't give me all the answers, but it lights what is often a dark path ahead. Gen. James Mattis, USMC retired (shown here against a backdrop of books) is known for his belief that reading is extremely important, particularly for leaders or would-be leaders. As he has said before, "Thanks to my reading, I have never been caught flat-footed by any situation, never at a loss for how any problem has been addressed (successfully or unsuccessfully) before. It doesn't give me all the answers, but it lights what is often a dark path ahead.

Personal Development and Leadership Books Suggested by Vortex

Below, you’ll find a rundown of all the books I saw in their “little libraries.” They didn’t appear to be in any particular order on the shelves, but I’ve organized them loosely here to make the list easier to digest.

Management Principles and Leadership Books

The Effective Executive

by Peter F. Drucker

FInd it on Amazon.

The Effective Executive by Peter F. DruckerKey Takeaway: This book is a classic masterclass in managing oneself. It's about using your time and energy to produce results, focusing on the right things, and making effective decisions.The Effective Executive by Peter F. DruckerKey Takeaway: This book is a classic masterclass in managing oneself. It's about using your time and energy to produce results, focusing on the right things, and making effective decisions.

Built to Last

by Jim Collins and Jerry Porras

Find it on Amazon.

Built to Last by Jim Collins and Jerry PorrasKey Takeaway: The authors explore what makes truly great, visionary companies different from others. They emphasize that long-term success is about building a strong, values-driven culture, not just a single great idea. This resonates deeply with Vortex's focus on legacy and community.Built to Last by Jim Collins and Jerry PorrasKey Takeaway: The authors explore what makes truly great, visionary companies different from others. They emphasize that long-term success is about building a strong, values-driven culture, not just a single great idea. This resonates deeply with Vortex's focus on legacy and community.

How the Mighty Fall

by Jim Collins

FInd it on Amazon.

How the Mighty Fall by Jim CollinsKey Takeaway: A crucial follow-up to Built to Last, this book examines the predictable stages of decline for great companies. It's a humbling lesson in the dangers of arrogance and the importance of discipline, which is a core tenet of both leadership and marksmanship.How the Mighty Fall by Jim CollinsKey Takeaway: A crucial follow-up to Built to Last, this book examines the predictable stages of decline for great companies. It's a humbling lesson in the dangers of arrogance and the importance of discipline, which is a core tenet of both leadership and marksmanship.

The Motive

by Patrick Lencioni

Find it on Amazon.

The Motive by Patrick LencioniKey Takeaway: Lencioni explores the motives of leadership, distinguishing between leaders who are in it for themselves (reward-centered) and those who serve their teams (responsibility-centered). This speaks directly to the servant leadership philosophy at Vortex.The Motive by Patrick LencioniKey Takeaway: Lencioni explores the motives of leadership, distinguishing between leaders who are in it for themselves (reward-centered) and those who serve their teams (responsibility-centered). This speaks directly to the servant leadership philosophy at Vortex.

Leaders Made Here

by Mark Miller

FInd it on Amazon.

Leaders Made Here by Mark MillerKey Takeaway: Miller provides a practical framework for creating a culture of leadership development throughout an organization. It's a roadmap for intentionally growing new leaders at every level, a key component of Vortex's growth and success. Leaders Made Here by Mark MillerKey Takeaway: Miller provides a practical framework for creating a culture of leadership development throughout an organization. It's a roadmap for intentionally growing new leaders at every level, a key component of Vortex's growth and success.

The Heart of Leadership

by Mark Miller

Find it on Amazon.

The Heart of Leadership by Mark MillerKey Takeaway: This book uses a fable to illustrate the importance of serving, connecting, and trusting as core tenets of effective leadership. It emphasizes that a leader's character is just as important as their competence.The Heart of Leadership by Mark MillerKey Takeaway: This book uses a fable to illustrate the importance of serving, connecting, and trusting as core tenets of effective leadership. It emphasizes that a leader's character is just as important as their competence.

The Secret

by Ken Blanchard and Mark Miller

Find it on Amazon.

The Secret by Ken Blanchard and Mark MillerKey Takeaway: Another fable-style book, this one reveals the "secret" to great leadership: true leadership is found in serving others. It's a powerful lesson in servant leadership that seems to be a foundational element of the Vortex culture.The Secret by Ken Blanchard and Mark MillerKey Takeaway: Another fable-style book, this one reveals the "secret" to great leadership: true leadership is found in serving others. It's a powerful lesson in servant leadership that seems to be a foundational element of the Vortex culture.

“It is what you read when you don’t have to that determines what you will be when you can’t help it.” ~ Oscar Wilde

Personal Development Books

The Go-Giver

Bob Burg and John David Mann

FInd it on Amazon.

The key takeaway from The Go-Giver is that shifting your focus from "getting" to "giving" is the most effective path to success, influence, and abundance.The book, a business parable by Bob Burg and John David Mann, argues that true success is not achieved through aggression or self-interest, but by consistently and authentically providing value to others. It outlines five "Laws of Stratospheric Success," all of which center on the idea that the more you give in value, the more you serve others, and the more you put their interests first, the more success you will ultimately receive in return. The core message is a counterintuitive but powerful one: selfless service is the most profitable business strategy and a fundamental principle of a fulfilling life.The key takeaway from The Go-Giver is that shifting your focus from "getting" to "giving" is the most effective path to success, influence, and abundance.The book, a business parable by Bob Burg and John David Mann, argues that true success is not achieved through aggression or self-interest, but by consistently and authentically providing value to others. It outlines five "Laws of Stratospheric Success," all of which center on the idea that the more you give in value, the more you serve others, and the more you put their interests first, the more success you will ultimately receive in return. The core message is a counterintuitive but powerful one: selfless service is the most profitable business strategy and a fundamental principle of a fulfilling life.

The Power of Ownership

by Justin Roethlingshoefer

Find it on Amazon.

The Power of Ownership by Justin RoethlingshoeferKey Takeaway: This book speaks directly to the experience of a 100% employee-owned business like Vortex. It’s about taking personal ownership of your work, your decisions, and your company's success.The Power of Ownership by Justin RoethlingshoeferKey Takeaway: This book speaks directly to the experience of a 100% employee-owned business like Vortex. It’s about taking personal ownership of your work, your decisions, and your company's success.

Free to Focus

by Michael Hyatt

Find it on Amazon.

Free to Focus by Michael HyattKey Takeaway: Hyatt provides a simple, three-step framework to help readers achieve greater productivity and clarity without burnout. It's about working smarter, not harder, and prioritizing the things that truly matter.Free to Focus by Michael HyattKey Takeaway: Hyatt provides a simple, three-step framework to help readers achieve greater productivity and clarity without burnout. It's about working smarter, not harder, and prioritizing the things that truly matter.

10x is Easier Than 2x

by Dan Sullivan with Dr. Benjamin Hardy

Find it on Amazon.

10x is Easier Than 2x by Dan Sullivan with Dr. Benjamin HardyKey Takeaway: This book challenges the idea of incremental growth and provides a framework for exponential thinking. It’s about focusing on a few key areas that can lead to massive breakthroughs.10x is Easier Than 2x by Dan Sullivan with Dr. Benjamin HardyKey Takeaway: This book challenges the idea of incremental growth and provides a framework for exponential thinking. It’s about focusing on a few key areas that can lead to massive breakthroughs.

The Butterfly Effect

by Andy Andrews

FInd it on Amazon.

The Butterfly Effect by Andy AndrewsKey Takeaway: This unique book is a powerful reminder that every action, no matter how small, can have a profound impact on the world. It’s an inspiring tale that emphasizes the importance of individual character.The Butterfly Effect by Andy AndrewsKey Takeaway: This unique book is a powerful reminder that every action, no matter how small, can have a profound impact on the world. It’s an inspiring tale that emphasizes the importance of individual character.

The Power of Moments

by Chip and Dan Heath

Find it on Amazon.

The key takeaways from The Power of Moments by Chip and Dan Heath are centered on the idea that our most memorable experiences are not random but can be intentionally engineered. The book provides a practical framework for creating these powerful, defining moments in both our personal and professional lives.The key takeaways from The Power of Moments by Chip and Dan Heath are centered on the idea that our most memorable experiences are not random but can be intentionally engineered. The book provides a practical framework for creating these powerful, defining moments in both our personal and professional lives.

Teamwork, Communication, and Culture

No Ego

by Cy Wakeman

Find it on Amazon.

No Ego by Cy WakemanKey Takeaway: This book makes a powerful case for the high cost of workplace drama and ego. It offers a no-nonsense approach to creating a culture of accountability and emotional maturity.No Ego by Cy WakemanKey Takeaway: This book makes a powerful case for the high cost of workplace drama and ego. It offers a no-nonsense approach to creating a culture of accountability and emotional maturity.

Building a StoryBrand

by Donald Miller

Find it on Amazon.

Building a StoryBrand by Donald MillerKey Takeaway: Miller teaches how to clarify your brand's message so customers understand what you offer and why they need it. This is a crucial lesson for connecting with a loyal community like the Vortex Nation.Building a StoryBrand by Donald MillerKey Takeaway: Miller teaches how to clarify your brand's message so customers understand what you offer and why they need it. This is a crucial lesson for connecting with a loyal community like the Vortex Nation.

The Infinite Game

by Simon Sinek

Find it on Amazon.

The Infinite Game by Simon SinekKey Takeaway: Sinek argues that while finite games have a clear end, business and life are "infinite games." The goal is not to win, but to keep playing, and to build a strong, values-driven organization that can endure.The Infinite Game by Simon SinekKey Takeaway: Sinek argues that while finite games have a clear end, business and life are "infinite games." The goal is not to win, but to keep playing, and to build a strong, values-driven organization that can endure.

Never Split the Difference

by Chris Voss with Tahl Raz

Find it on Amazon.

Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss with Tahl RazKey Takeaway: A former FBI hostage negotiator shares tactical strategies for effective negotiation. The lessons aren't just for high-stakes situations; they’re about understanding human psychology and using empathetic listening to get what you need while building a better relationship.Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss with Tahl RazKey Takeaway: A former FBI hostage negotiator shares tactical strategies for effective negotiation. The lessons aren't just for high-stakes situations; they’re about understanding human psychology and using empathetic listening to get what you need while building a better relationship.

QBQ! The Question Beyond the Question

by John G. Miller

Find it on Amazon.

QBQ! The Question Behind the Question by John G. MillerKey Takeaway: This book challenges readers to practice personal accountability by asking better questions. Instead of "Who's to blame?" it encourages "What can I do to help?" It’s a simple but powerful tool for self-improvement and leadership.QBQ! The Question Behind the Question by John G. MillerKey Takeaway: This book challenges readers to practice personal accountability by asking better questions. Instead of "Who's to blame?" it encourages "What can I do to help?" It’s a simple but powerful tool for self-improvement and leadership.

The Advantage

by Patrick Lencioni

Find it on Amazon.

The key takeaway from The Advantage by Patrick Lencioni is that organizational health is the single greatest competitive advantage a company can have. Lencioni argues that while most leaders focus on "smart" areas of business like strategy, finance, and technology, these advantages are temporary and easily replicated. Instead, a truly healthy organization—one free of politics and confusion—will always outperform its unhealthy rivals, even if the latter are smarter.The key takeaway from The Advantage by Patrick Lencioni is that organizational health is the single greatest competitive advantage a company can have. Lencioni argues that while most leaders focus on "smart" areas of business like strategy, finance, and technology, these advantages are temporary and easily replicated. Instead, a truly healthy organization—one free of politics and confusion—will always outperform its unhealthy rivals, even if the latter are smarter.

The Ideal Team Player

by Patrick Lencioni

Find it on Amazon.

The Ideal Team Player by Patrick LencioniKey Takeaway: Lencioni identifies three key virtues for team players: humility, hunger, and people smarts. This book provides a clear blueprint for building a cohesive, functional, and happy team, something Vortex clearly prioritizes.The Ideal Team Player by Patrick LencioniKey Takeaway: Lencioni identifies three key virtues for team players: humility, hunger, and people smarts. This book provides a clear blueprint for building a cohesive, functional, and happy team, something Vortex clearly prioritizes.

Nine Lies About Work 

by Marcus Buckingham and Ashley Goodall

Find it on Amazon.

Nine Lies About Work by Marcus Buckingham and Ashley GoodallKey Takeaway: This book challenges conventional business wisdom about performance, culture, and engagement. It provides a fresh perspective on what actually drives great teams and successful careers.Nine Lies About Work by Marcus Buckingham and Ashley GoodallKey Takeaway: This book challenges conventional business wisdom about performance, culture, and engagement. It provides a fresh perspective on what actually drives great teams and successful careers.

The Secret of Teams

by Mark Miller

Find it on Amazon.

The Secret of Teams by Mark MillerKey Takeaway: Using a simple fable, this book identifies the key ingredients for building a high-performing team. It focuses on the importance of trust, communication, and clear goals.The Secret of Teams by Mark MillerKey Takeaway: Using a simple fable, this book identifies the key ingredients for building a high-performing team. It focuses on the importance of trust, communication, and clear goals.
Little leadership libraries at Vortex Optics HQ: There are multiple (duplicate) copies of all the recommended books on various bookshelves throughout the Vortex facility. While they are not "required" reading, certainly not all of them, it seemed pretty clear from what I saw that everyone reads at least some of them. Little leadership libraries at Vortex Optics HQ: There are multiple (duplicate) copies of all the recommended books on various bookshelves throughout the Vortex facility. While they are not "required" reading, certainly not all of them, it seemed pretty clear from what I saw that everyone reads at least some of them.

Strategy and Execution

No-Fail Meetings

by Michael Hyatt

Find it on Amazon.

No-Fail Meetings by Michael HyattKey Takeaway: This book provides a practical guide for running productive meetings that don't waste time or energy. It's a key skill for improving a team’s overall efficiency and focus.No-Fail Meetings by Michael HyattKey Takeaway: This book provides a practical guide for running productive meetings that don't waste time or energy. It's a key skill for improving a team’s overall efficiency and focus.

EntreLeadership

by Dave Ramsey

Find it on Amazon.

EntreLeadership by Dave RamseyKey Takeaway: Ramsey combines his business expertise with leadership principles to provide a guide for building a successful company. It's a practical, no-nonsense approach to managing people, money, and time.EntreLeadership by Dave RamseyKey Takeaway: Ramsey combines his business expertise with leadership principles to provide a guide for building a successful company. It's a practical, no-nonsense approach to managing people, money, and time.

The Four Disciplines of Execution

by Chris McChesney, Sean Covey and Jim Huling

Find it on Amazon.

The Four Disciplines of Execution by Chris McChesney, Sean Covey, and Jim HulingKey Takeaway: This book provides a simple, repeatable formula for executing on strategic goals. It’s a system for moving from a great idea to a tangible result, which is crucial for any successful organization.The Four Disciplines of Execution by Chris McChesney, Sean Covey, and Jim HulingKey Takeaway: This book provides a simple, repeatable formula for executing on strategic goals. It’s a system for moving from a great idea to a tangible result, which is crucial for any successful organization.

Critical Chain

by Eliyahu M. Goldratt

Find it on Amazon.

Critical Chain by Eliyahu M. GoldrattKey Takeaway: A groundbreaking look at project management, Goldratt's book introduces a new method for managing projects that focuses on the "critical chain" rather than the "critical path." It’s about more efficient and reliable project completion.Critical Chain by Eliyahu M. GoldrattKey Takeaway: A groundbreaking look at project management, Goldratt's book introduces a new method for managing projects that focuses on the "critical chain" rather than the "critical path." It’s about more efficient and reliable project completion.

The Goal

by Eliyahu M. Goldratt

Find it on Amazon.

The Goal by Eliyahu M. GoldrattKey Takeaway: A management novel that teaches the Theory of Constraints. It’s an engaging way to learn how to identify and overcome the biggest bottleneck in your system—whether it’s a manufacturing line or a personal project.The Goal by Eliyahu M. GoldrattKey Takeaway: A management novel that teaches the Theory of Constraints. It’s an engaging way to learn how to identify and overcome the biggest bottleneck in your system—whether it’s a manufacturing line or a personal project.

Chess Not Checkers

by Mark Miller

Find it on Amazon.

Chess Not Checkers by Mark MillerKey Takeaway: This book uses a powerful analogy to show how leaders can elevate their strategy. It challenges leaders to think several moves ahead and to develop an intentional, long-term plan rather than reacting to short-term events.Chess Not Checkers by Mark MillerKey Takeaway: This book uses a powerful analogy to show how leaders can elevate their strategy. It challenges leaders to think several moves ahead and to develop an intentional, long-term plan rather than reacting to short-term events.

Talent Magnet

by Mark Miller

Find it on Amazon.

Talent Magnet by Mark MillerKey Takeaway: In a highly competitive market, this book provides a guide to attracting and retaining the best talent. It focuses on building a winning culture that talented people want to be a part of.Talent Magnet by Mark MillerKey Takeaway: In a highly competitive market, this book provides a guide to attracting and retaining the best talent. It focuses on building a winning culture that talented people want to be a part of.
Another bookshelf from the Vortex Optics facility. This one was in the employee breakroom - which by the way was nicer than many restaurants I've visited. Another bookshelf from the Vortex Optics facility. This one was in the employee breakroom - which by the way was nicer than many restaurants I've visited.

“If you haven’t read hundreds of books, you are functionally illiterate, and you will be incompetent, because your personal experiences alone aren’t broad enough to sustain you.” Gen. James Mattis, USMC (Ret)

What I Would Add

I didn’t see these titles on the shelves during my visit (which doesn’t mean they weren’t there somewhere), but I’d add the following three books to this list.

Leaders Eat Last

by Simon Sinek

Find it on Amazon.

Leaders Eat Last is a book that should definitely be on any suggested reading list. Leaders Eat Last is a book that should definitely be on any suggested reading list.

The Servant

by James C. Hunter

Find it on Amazon.

"The Servant" is a parable, but the lessons it conveys make it applicable to any good reading list that addresses personal development or good leadership traits. "The Servant" is a parable, but the lessons it conveys make it applicable to any good reading list that addresses personal development or good leadership traits.

Leadership and Training for the Fight

by Paul Howe

Find it on Amazon.

Although originally intended for a military audience, this book by a veteran Special Mission Unit operator also has a place on any good recommended reading list. Although originally intended for a military audience, this book by a veteran Special Mission Unit operator also has a place on any good recommended reading list.
1913 Stanley Cups and Mugs1913 Stanley Cups and Mugs



Read the full article here

Share.

Related Posts