Working at Lean has been a truly enriching journey, and one facet that has profoundly impacted me is our dynamic book club. This distinctive initiative not only cultivates a sense of camaraderie among colleagues but also provides an invaluable platform for personal and professional development. Through engaging in our book club discussions, I've discovered a meaningful way to strengthen connections with my teammates while refining my skills in various realms, ranging from business strategy to people management.

Among the myriad of books we've explored, "How Women Rise" stands out as a particularly impactful read for me. Despite its title implying a narrow focus, the insights gleaned from this book transcended gender-specific considerations. It was a fascinating journey into the intricacies of human behavior and workplace habits, revealing that many challenges and triumphs are universal, cutting across diverse backgrounds and experiences.

The discussions spurred by "How Women Rise" not only broadened my perspective but also equipped me with practical lessons applicable to my professional journey. The book brought attention to subtle yet powerful habits that can significantly influence success in the workplace. For instance, it highlighted the impact of starting responses with negative qualifiers like "no," "but," or "however" when engaging with teammates. While this may be a habitual practice, the book emphasized the importance of respecting others' opinions by refraining from immediately introducing negative qualifiers after they express their thoughts while making a different point. Implementing these lessons has subtly altered my approach to work, enhancing my chances of success.

The Lean book club goes beyond a mere exchange of ideas; it acts as a catalyst for personal and professional growth, fostering a collaborative spirit that contributes to both individual and collective success.