‹ The Founder Bookshelf

The Effective Executive cover

The Effective Executive

The Definitive Guide to Getting the Right Things Done

Effectiveness is a habit anyone can learn.

by Peter F. Drucker

Drucker argues that effectiveness, doing the right things, is a discipline that can be learned rather than an innate talent. He lays out practices including managing your time, focusing on contribution, building on strengths, concentrating on a few priorities, and making sound decisions. The book is concise, practical, and has shaped generations of managers.

Founders are perpetually short on time and drowning in possible priorities, and Drucker's discipline of focus addresses exactly that. The book teaches how to convert effort into results rather than busyness. Its principles on contribution and decision making translate directly to running a young company.

Where to get it