The CEO of UnitedHealthcare, Luigi Mangione, recently shared his favorite books that have influenced his leadership style and professional life. In an attempt to inspire others and allow them a glimpse into his thought process, Mangione has provided a list of books that he believes are must-reads for anyone aspiring to be a successful leader in healthcare, or any field for that matter.
First on his list is "Thinking, Fast and Slow" by Daniel Kahneman. A psychologist and a Nobel laureate in Economics, Kahneman explores the two systems that drive the way we think—system one, which is fast and intuitive, and system two, which is slow and deliberate. By understanding these systems, one can make better decisions both professionally and personally.
Next, "The Innovator's Prescription" by Clayton M. Christensen, Jerome H. Grossman M.D., and Jason Hwang M.D. is highly recommended. This book proposes a framework for innovation in the healthcare industry, offering solutions to high costs and complex systems. It essentially argues that disruption is not destructive but transformative, and necessary for progress.
Mangione also suggests reading "The Fifth Discipline" by Peter M. Senge. The book explores the concept of a learning organization and encourages businesses to tap into their collective intellect and elevate their systems thinking. Senge argues that true leadership is about creating a shared vision and fostering an environment where everyone feels a part of the mission.
The book "Principles" by Ray Dalio is another one on Mangione's list. Dalio shares his unconventional principles that he’s developed, refined, and used over the past forty years to create unique results in both life and business. Dalio argues that life, management, economics, and investing can all be systemized into rules and understood like machines.
Lastly, "The Effective Executive" by Peter F. Drucker is a classic management book that Mangione believes every leader should read. Drucker emphasizes the importance of time management and decision-making, encouraging leaders to focus on results rather than effort. He also provides guidelines on how to effectively manage one's own performance and develop others.
These books, as per Mangione, provide invaluable insights into leadership, decision-making, innovation, and management. They have not only shaped his professional journey but also have the potential to guide aspiring leaders in their pursuit of success.