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What I read: The New Savvy CEO says these books have helped her become a better leader

(Source: Amazon)
(Source: Amazon)

By Karen Lim

SINGAPORE — For Anna Haotanto, founder and CEO of financial and career platform The New Savvy, books are a means of enhancing her knowledge, broadening her perspective, and understanding the different ways that people think and live. Of particular interest to the wealth management consultant are titles that can make her into a better leader and, for that, she finds inspiration in biographies.

Anna Haotanto, CEO of The New Savvy. (PHOTO: Anna Haotanto)
Anna Haotanto, CEO of The New Savvy and Chief Marketing Officer of Gourmet Food Holdings. (PHOTO: Anna Haotanto)

Here are her top five picks for books that inspire her:

Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future by Ashlee Vance

“Elon Musk is the quintessential entrepreneur. He’s everything I aspire to be as a founder. He’s convicted, crazy and committed. I was thoroughly inspired by how Musk moved from PayPal to Tesla and to SpaceX. The things he is building have changed the world and it makes me believe that nothing is impossible.”

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Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of Nike by Phil Knight

“Nike is one of my favourite brands and the book details the long, painful journey of starting a shoe wear company, (then growing it) to the giant that it is today. The book has taught me not to give up and to always find alternatives. Even when your back is against the wall, you always need to find a solution.”

The Everything Store: Jeff Bezos and the Age of Amazon by Brad Stone

“I love Bezos and what he’s done with Amazon. What is amazing about him is the fact that he never wavered in his mission. Amazon’s stock price had been lacklustre for many years but Bezos was never pressured into taking shortcuts. He always stuck to his beliefs. His experience has taught me to focus on our users and to always do everything with heart.”

How to Fail at Almost Everything and Still Win Big by Scott Adams

“I was about 28 and at a low point in my life when I read this. It helped to give me focus and clarity, and allowed me to understand that passion is overrated if you’re not compensated for it. It taught me to focus on processes, instead of passion, and to be the best in whatever field I am in.”

The Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself by Michael Alan Singer

“This book taught me to be centred and focused on being the best I can be, designing the best life, reaching my potential and leaving a legacy. By reading this book, I have learned that I can change my thoughts, to examine myself and not to react unnecessarily. Every day, I ask myself: ‘Do you want to be happy?’ Because being happy and grateful is a daily choice you need to make.”

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