Must-Read Servant Leadership Books

As someone who has experienced firsthand the transformative power of servant leadership books and training in my personal life, as a servant leader and coach, and in guiding organizations to success, I’m thrilled to share my curated list of the 25 best servant leadership books. These aren’t just books about servant leadership​ – they’re roadmaps to a revolutionary approach that puts people first and unlocks the true potential of teams and organizations.

If there’s one thing I can say with absolute certainty, it’s this—servant leadership isn’t just a concept. It’s a life-changing, team-transforming, results-driving approach to leadership that has reshaped everything about how I lead, live, and coach others. Servant leadership is fundamentally about people. It’s about creating an environment where teams thrive, and organizations excel. The beauty of this leadership model is that it’s not just about hitting goals—it’s about creating purpose, connection, and meaningful impact.

There’s no better way to begin this transformation than by turning to the wisdom of the greats. That’s why I’ve curated a list of the 25 best servant leadership books—resources that, in my experience, aren’t just books. They’re guides, mentors, and inspirations for anyone seeking to lead with purpose.

Top Servant Leadership Books for Leaders

In a bustling business setting, leadership styles often dictate the success or failure of an organization; a concept known as servant leadership is gaining unprecedented momentum. I’m Ryan Zofay, a renowned business transformation expert and Servant Leadership practitioner. “Servant leadership is not just a management technique; it’s a philosophy that revolutionizes how leaders engage with their teams.” With this in mind, I present a curated list of the 25 best servant leadership books that promise to enlighten and empower you, whether you are a seasoned leader or a curious beginner.

More about how books on servant leadership​ refined my leadership success

Purpose-Driven Top Servant Leadership Books

As a Sanctified Soul business transformation expert and author, I’ve seen how servant leadership principles can turn struggling companies into thriving, purpose-driven powerhouses. The books on servant leadership​ I’m about to share with you have been instrumental in shaping my understanding of this powerful leadership philosophy and have helped countless leaders, including myself, to cultivate a more empathetic, collaborative, and practical approach to guiding others.

Whether you’re a seasoned executive looking to refine your leadership style, an aspiring leader eager to make a positive impact, or simply someone intrigued by servant leadership, this list has something for you. From timeless classics that laid the foundation of the servant leadership movement to contemporary works offering fresh perspectives, these books will challenge your assumptions, inspire your thinking, and provide practical strategies for implementing servant leadership in your life and work.

My Personal Servant Leadership Book

So, are you ready to embark on a journey that could revolutionize how you lead and influence others? Let’s dive into these transformative reads that have the power to change your management approach and create ripple effects of positive change throughout your organization and beyond. Check out my book on servant leadership​ – my life story: “An Unlikely Businessman: From Overdosed to Multimillionaire.”

How These Books (and Mindset Shifts) Have Shaped My Leadership

I’ll admit—adopting servant leadership wasn’t always easy. There’s a learning curve in shifting your mindset from simply leading people to genuinely serving them. But the rewards, both personally and professionally, have been immeasurable.

For example, applying principles from these books has helped me to:

• Empower Individuals: By focusing on my team’s growth, the outcomes have naturally followed. I’ve seen stronger collaboration, better solutions, and higher morale.
• Foster Open Communication: Leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about listening wholeheartedly.
• Build Purpose-Driven Teams: Success feels different when everyone understands how their contributions matter.

Over the years, I’ve experienced firsthand the incredible power of servant leadership. Whether it was guiding my teams as a leader, mentoring individuals as a coach, or simply navigating my personal growth, servant leadership has provided me with an entirely new playbook for success. These lessons have carried far beyond the workplace. Servant leadership has transformed not just how I work but also how I live.

Lead with purpose, check out my top New Year’s resolutions for self-growth, and explore the 25 best servant leadership books to boost your professional development.

Lead with Purpose – Read a valuable Servant leadership book

If you’ve been searching for a way to lead with greater purpose—whether in your business, your community, or even your family—servant leadership might be what you’re looking for. I encourage you to explore the transformative power of these books and take the first steps toward becoming a more impactful, empathetic leader.

Brilliant servant leadership books have had the privilege of walking me through every step of my leadership evolution. Authors like Ken Blanchard and John Maxwell don’t just write—they inspire action. Here are a few recommendations you don’t want to miss (remember to check out the complete curated list!):

• “The Servant Leadership Book” by Ken Blanchard is a definitive, profoundly insightful guide that has shaped countless leaders.
• “The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership” by John Maxwell is a classic servant leadership book and a masterclass on leading with integrity and impact.
• “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen R. Covey is a timeless must-read for aligning your values, actions, and leadership approach.

These aren’t just books; they’re roadmaps showing you how to lead from a place of authenticity, empathy, and transformation. Are you ready to start your servant leadership journey? Check out my curated list of the 25 best servant leadership books today!

Top 25 best servant leadership books of all time

Servant leadership has a profound impact on organizational success. Companies prioritizing this approach often experience increased employee engagement, higher retention rates, and improved customer satisfaction. By fostering a culture of trust and collaboration, servant leaders create environments where innovation thrives.

Top 25 Servant Leadership Books List

Book Title & Author	Book Reviews	Key Insights & Impact
“The Servant as Leader” by Robert K. Greenleaf	This seminal essay expands on Greenleaf’s original ideas, further exploring servant leaders’ characteristics and responsibilities. It remains a critical resource for anyone seeking a comprehensive understanding of servant leadership.	Emphasizes the leader’s role as a servant first. Impact on Leadership: Redefines leadership by highlighting the importance of serving others.
“The New One Minute Manager” by Ken Blanchard and Spencer Johnson	Blanchard and Johnson’s updated classic provides a simple yet effective framework for improving management practices. Their focus on clear communication and employee empowerment resonates strongly with servant leadership values.	Combines situational leadership with servant leadership principles. Impact on Leadership: Offers practical methods to adapt leadership styles to serve and empower teams effectively.
“The Speed of Trust” by Stephen M.R. Covey	Covey emphasizes the importance of trust as a foundational element of effective leadership. He provides actionable strategies for building trust within organizations, making this book an invaluable tool for servant leaders.	Explores the significance of trust in effective leadership. Impact on Leadership: Trust accelerates processes and builds strong relationships.
“The Five Dysfunctions of a Team” by Patrick Lencioni	Lencioni identifies common challenges that teams face and offers strategies for overcoming them. His focus on building trust and fostering open communication aligns with the principles of servant leadership.	Analyzes common team dysfunctions and solutions. Impact on Leadership: Encourages leaders to foster healthy, functional teams by serving their needs.
“Tribes” by Seth Godin	Godin encourages leaders to cultivate strong communities by empowering individuals to take initiative. His focus on building connections and fostering innovation aligns with the principles of servant leadership.	Highlights the importance of creating communities and leading with vision. Impact on Leadership: Inspires leaders to build engaged communities by serving shared goals.
The Heart of Change by John P. Kotter	Kotter emphasizes the crucial role of emotions in driving successful organizational transformations, building on his 8-step process for leading change. The book illustrates this “see-feel-change” approach with compelling real-life stories, demonstrating how organizations used creative methods to spark urgency and motivate action.	Presents strategies for leading change effectively. Impact on Leadership: Servant leaders champion change compassionately and effectively.
“Turn the Ship Around!” by L. David Marquet	The book’s core message revolves around the power of leadership by intent rather than control. Marquet revolutionized how his crew operated by delegating authority, encouraging open communication, and fostering a culture of ownership. This approach not only improved performance but also boosted morale and job satisfaction.	Shows how empowerment fosters leadership growth. Impact on Leadership: Demonstrates the power of relinquishing control in leadership for team empowerment.
The Art of Possibility by Rosamund Stone Zander and Benjamin Zander	Stone and Zander offer a transformative approach to personal and professional life. The book presents 12 practices for shifting perspective and opening up new possibilities. They reframe obstacles, embrace creativity, and approach life with a more open and positive mindset.	Encourages a shift in perspective to create new possibilities. Leadership Impact: Inspires leaders to serve by creating environments ripe for creativity and growth.
“Everyone Communicates, Few Connect” by John C. Maxwell	Maxwell explores how to build meaningful connections through effective communication. Maxwell presents five principles and practices for connecting with individuals, groups, and audiences. He emphasizes that connecting is a learnable skill crucial for leadership and personal success.	Explores the significance of connecting with people in leadership. Leadership Impact: Equips leaders with tools to enhance connection through authentic service.
“Drive” by Daniel H. Pink	Pink examines the factors that motivate individuals, offering insights into how leaders can inspire their teams. His emphasis on autonomy, mastery, and purpose aligns with the servant leadership philosophy.	Examines what truly motivates us, challenging traditional incentives. Leadership Impact: Provides insights into leading by fostering autonomy, mastery, and purpose.
“The Go-Giver” by Bob Burg and John David Mann	Burg and Mann challenge the “go-getter” mentality. It follows Joe, who learns the Five Laws of Stratospheric Success from a mentor. The book emphasizes that success comes from giving value, serving others, and prioritizing others’ interests. It promotes a shift from getting to giving in business and life.	Marquet, a former Navy submarine commander, shares his experiences transforming a struggling crew into a top-performing team. His emphasis on empowering individuals aligns closely with servant leadership principles, offering valuable lessons for leaders in any field.
“Good to Great” by Jim Collins	Collins examines why some companies leap from good to excellent performance while others don’t. Through extensive research, Collins identifies key factors: Level 5 Leadership, First Who Then What, Confronting the Brutal Facts, the Hedgehog Concept, and a Culture of Discipline. The book offers practical insights for organizational success.	Explores how companies transition from good to exceptional. Leadership Impact: Highlights servant leadership as a pathway to sustainable success and greatness.
“Fierce Conversations” by Susan Scott	Scott emphasizes the importance of authentic, meaningful dialogue in all aspects of life. Scott provides practical strategies for having honest, “fierce” conversations that drive personal and professional success. The book offers seven principles for effective communication, including interrogating reality, tackling tough challenges, and enriching relationships.	Emphasizes the importance of open, honest dialogue. Leadership Impact: Encourages leaders to serve by fostering a culture of openness and respect.
“The Serving Leader” by Ken Jennings and John Stahl-Wert	Jennings and Stahl-Wert offer a structured approach to implementing servant leadership principles in real-world settings. They illustrate five decisive actions that define influential servant leaders through engaging storytelling.	Focuses on practical applications of servant leadership in organizations. Leadership Impact: Provides a blueprint for implementing servant leadership principles in business.
“The Mindful Leader” by Michael Carroll	In this compelling read, Sinek explores leadership’s biological and psychological aspects. He argues that leaders who prioritize the well-being of their teams foster environments where employees feel safe, leading to enhanced creativity and collaboration.	Blends mindfulness practices with leadership. Leadership Impact: Offers insights into leading with intention and serving in the present moment.
“Radical Candor” by Kim Scott	Carroll explores how mindfulness can enhance leadership skills in the modern workplace. Carroll presents ten fundamental principles of mindful leadership, offering practical advice on cultivating awareness, reducing stress, and leading with wisdom. The book combines Buddhist teachings with business insights, providing a fresh approach to effective leadership.	Discusses the balance of caring personally and challenging directly. Leadership Impact: Servant leadership involves honest feedback given with care.
“Leaders Eat Last” by Simon Sinek	Scott presents a management philosophy centered on caring personally while challenging directly. Scott argues that effective leadership requires building solid relationships with team members and providing honest feedback. The book offers practical advice for implementing this approach to create a more productive and fulfilling work environment.	Explores why some teams trust their leaders and others don’t. Leadership Impact: Servant leaders prioritize the well-being of their teams over personal gain.
“Primal Leadership” by Daniel Goleman, Richard Boyatzis, and Annie McKee	Goleman, Boyatzis, and McKee explore the crucial role of emotional intelligence in effective leadership. The authors argue that great leaders create resonance by mastering four domains: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management. They present six leadership styles and offer strategies for developing emotionally intelligent leadership skills.	Examines the role of emotional intelligence in leadership effectiveness. Leadership Impact: Guides leaders on serving by understanding and managing emotions.
“The Giving Tree” by Shel Silverstein	This is a poignant children’s book about the relationship between a boy and a tree. As the boy grows older, the tree selflessly gives him everything it has to make him happy. The story explores themes of unconditional love, selflessness, and the nature of happiness, sparking discussions about giving and taking.	A classic allegory about selflessness and giving. Leadership Impact: Inspires leaders to serve without expectation, embodying true generosity.
“Quiet” by Susan Cain	Cain explores the power of introverts in a world that favors extroversion. She challenges societal bias and highlights introverts’ creativity, leadership, and problem-solving strengths. She offers insights on leveraging introvert traits in work and life and advocates for a balance between introvert and extrovert styles in various settings.	Advocates for the power of introverts in a loud world. Leadership Impact: Encourages leaders to serve by valuing all voices and creating inclusive spaces.
“The Motive” by Patrick Lencioni	Lencioni explores why leaders often neglect crucial responsibilities. Through a business fable and practical insights, Lencioni challenges leaders to examine their motives for leading. He argues that effective leadership stems from a desire to serve others, not personal gain. The book offers strategies for leaders to refocus on their core responsibilities and improve organizational health.	Challenges leaders to examine their motives for leading. Leadership Impact: Prompts leaders to reflect on their intent and realign with servant ideals.
“Humility Is the New Smart” by Edward D. Hess and Katherine Ludwig	Hess and Ludwig explore how humans can thrive in the Smart Machine Age. The authors argue that as AI and automation advance, human success will depend on developing skills machines lack critical thinking, creativity, and emotional intelligence. They propose a new model of “NewSmart” behaviors centered on humility, emphasizing self-awareness, open-mindedness, and collaboration.	Examines the importance of humility in the modern workplace. Leadership Impact: Advocates for serving through continuous learning and adaptability.
“The Confidence Code” by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman	A compelling exploration of the confidence gap between men and women. Delve into the science and psychology behind confidence, highlighting the societal and biological factors contributing to women’s lower self-assurance. You’ll find practical advice and strategies to help women overcome self-doubt and embrace their full potential.	It focuses on building confidence, especially in women leaders. Leadership Impact: Servant leadership empowers others to find their confidence and voice.
“Legacy” by James Kerr	Kerr examines the culture and practices of New Zealand’s All Blacks rugby team to extract 15 leadership lessons. Kerr explores how the team’s focus on character, humility, and continuous improvement contributes to their success. The book offers insights on building a winning culture, developing leaders, and leaving a lasting impact in business and life.	Explores leadership through the lens of the All Blacks rugby team. Leadership Impact: Inspires leaders to think long-term and serve future generations through their actions.

We invite you to share your personal experiences and insights on servant leadership. Have you read any of these books? What impact did they have on your leadership approach? We’d love to hear your stories and thoughts in the comments below.

Top 16 foundational best books on servant leadership​

Servant leadership is a timeless and transformative approach in an era of constantly evolving leadership styles. This philosophy prioritizes others’ needs and helps people develop and perform as highly as possible, and it has gained significant traction in recent years. As organizations seek more ethical, empathetic, and practical leadership models, the principles of servant leadership have become increasingly relevant.

Transformational Lessons from Bestselling Servant Leadership Books

Whether you’re a seasoned executive, an aspiring leader, or simply someone interested in personal growth, these books provide invaluable insights into the power of leading through service. They challenge traditional notions of leadership, offering a more holistic and human-centered approach that can transform individuals, teams, and entire organizations.

As we dive into these transformational lessons, prepare to discover how putting others first can paradoxically lead to tremendous success, fulfillment, and positive impact. These books explain the theory behind servant leadership and provide practical strategies for implementing these principles in your personal and professional life.

1. “The Servant” by James C. Hunter

The Servant Leadership book​ is a compelling narrative exploring servant leadership’s essence through a fictional story. Hunter provides practical insights into building trust and empowering people, making it a must-read for anyone interested in transforming their leadership style.

2. “Servant Leadership” by Robert K. Greenleaf

Greenleaf’s book, the foundational text of the servant leadership movement, challenges traditional leadership paradigms by proposing that the best leaders serve. This classic work is essential for understanding the theoretical underpinnings of servant leadership.

3. “The Art of Servant Leadership” by Tony Baron

Baron presents a practical guide to integrating servant leadership into organizational culture. He offers real-world examples and actionable advice for leaders looking to foster a more collaborative and inclusive environment.

4. “The Radical Leap” by Steve Farber

Farber introduces the concept of Extreme Leadership, which emphasizes love, energy, audacity, and proof. His engaging narrative encourages leaders to inspire and motivate their teams through authentic connections.

5. “Leadership and Self-Deception” by The Arbinger Institute

This thought-provoking book challenges readers to examine their biases and assumptions about leadership. Encouraging self-awareness and empathy provides a foundation for developing influential servant leaders.

6. “The Advantage” by Patrick Lencioni

In this insightful book, Lencioni argues that organizational health is the key to long-term success. He provides a roadmap for creating cohesive teams and cultures, making it a valuable resource for servant leaders.

7. “Dare to Lead” by Brené Brown

Brown’s emphasis on vulnerability and courage in leadership resonates with the core tenets of servant leadership. Her research-backed insights offer practical guidance for leaders seeking to create more empathetic and resilient organizations.

8. “Leading with Emotional Courage” by Peter Bregman

Bregman emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership, providing strategies for building strong relationships and fostering collaboration. His approach aligns well with the servant leadership philosophy.

9. “The Leadership Challenge” by James M. Kouzes and Barry Z. Posner

Kouzes and Posner outline five practices essential for effective leadership, including inspiring a shared vision and enabling others to act. Their research-based approach provides a solid foundation for aspiring servant leaders.

10. “The Culture Code” by Daniel Coyle

Coyle explores the secrets behind successful team cultures, highlighting the role of servant leadership in fostering trust and collaboration. His engaging storytelling makes this book both informative and enjoyable.

11. “Humilitas” by John Dickson

Dickson explores the role of humility in effective leadership, arguing that authentic influence comes from serving others. His thought-provoking narrative offers valuable insights for leaders seeking a more empathetic approach.

12. “Start with Why” by Simon Sinek

Sinek emphasizes the importance of purpose-driven leadership, inspiring leaders to create meaningful connections with their teams. His focus on clarity and vision aligns with the ideals of servant leadership.

13. “The Infinite Game” by Simon Sinek

In this book, Sinek challenges leaders to adopt a long-term perspective and prioritize the well-being of their teams. His emphasis on resilience and adaptability makes this a valuable resource for servant leaders.

14. “The Happiness Advantage” by Shawn Achor

Achor explores the link between happiness and success, providing strategies for creating a positive work environment. His focus on employee well-being resonates with the principles of servant leadership.

15. “Leadershift” by John C. Maxwell

Maxwell provides actionable advice for leaders seeking to adapt to changing circumstances and empower their teams. His focus on flexibility and growth is a hallmark of effective servant leadership.

16. “The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership” by John C. Maxwell

Maxwell outlines timeless leadership principles, emphasizing the importance of influence and service. His practical insights make this book an essential addition to any leadership library.

This curated list of the top 16 foundational books on servant leadership represents the cornerstone literature in this field. Robert K. Greenleaf’s seminal work introduced the concept to modern interpretations and practical applications, and these books offer a comprehensive exploration of servant leadership principles.

Why Servant Leadership Matters

The best leaders I know—whether they’re entrepreneurs running fast-moving startups, HR managers crafting thoughtful policies, or teams of professionals collaborating across departments—all share one common denominator. They care. Not simply about results, KPIs, or bottom lines (though those follow), but about the people they work with daily.

Servant leadership teaches that uplifting others amplifies outcomes. Employees become loyal, engaged, and innovative contributors. Challenges transform into opportunities for growth. Organizations have become purpose-driven, not just profit-driven.

The best part? This philosophy works regardless of your organization’s size, industry, or goals.

Transformational Stories from the Business World

Numerous organizations have experienced transformational change through servant leadership. For example, WD-40 Company attributes much of its success to its servant leadership culture, emphasizing employee empowerment and continuous improvement. This approach has led to significant growth and a highly engaged workforce.

Personal Growth and Development

In addition to benefiting organizations, servant leadership also fosters personal growth and development among leaders. By prioritizing the needs of others and cultivating empathy, leaders develop more vital interpersonal skills and a deeper understanding of their values and motivations.

Engaging with the Servant Leadership Community

The leaders who inspire lasting change aren’t the ones who shout the loudest or dominate with authority. They’re the ones who elevate others, who listen intently, and who foster environments where everyone can succeed. It starts with a single decision—to seek out knowledge and take action. These books about servant leadership are more than just reading material; they’re invitations to grow, lead, and transform the world around you.

I invite you to lead with purpose and intention in this upcoming year of growth, empowerment, and meaningful impact.

Share Your Experiences and Recommendations

We invite you to share your experiences with servant leadership and recommend any books that have impacted your leadership style. Join the conversation by commenting below or connecting with us on social media.

Participate & Share Your Comments

Which of these books do you find most relatable to your leadership style, and why? Your comments contribute to the ongoing dialogue about effective leadership practices by sharing your perspective. Comment on your favorite servant leadership book from our list, or share which book you’re most interested in reading. Your feedback helps us continue to provide valuable content tailored to your interests.

Our Book Checklist

Stay organized and engaged with our top 25 servant leadership books checklist. Use it to track your reading progress and jot down personal notes and reflections.

Exploring Further

Must-Read Business Books

Expand your leadership library with our recommendations for must-read business books. Stay informed and inspired with these valuable resources covering various topics, from motivation to innovation.

• Best Growth Mindset Books​: Carol Dweck to Millionaire, Warrior Perspectives.
• Best Self Help Books PDF Downloadable eBooks
• Best Self Help Books for Women

Takeaway: A Call to Serve

The power of servant leadership lies in its ability to inspire and transform. Leaders can create lasting positive change within their organizations and communities by putting people first. As you explore the top 25 best servant leadership books, remember that the journey to becoming an effective servant leader is a continuous process of learning and growth.

We encourage you to take the next step in your leadership development by engaging with the content, sharing your experiences, and connecting with fellow servant leaders. We can create a more inclusive, empathetic, and impactful world.

My journey from overcoming personal struggles to building a nine-figure business has given me a unique perspective on effective leadership. In training sessions and workshops, I distill the essence of servant leadership—putting others first, fostering growth, and leading with empathy—into practical, actionable strategies you can implement in your organization.

Drawing from my experiences as the founder of We Level Up and work as a motivational speaker, I’m delighted to offer clients:

1. Real-world examples of servant leadership in action
2. Techniques for building trust and empowering your team
3. Strategies for aligning your leadership style with your organization’s values
4. Insights on how servant leadership can drive business success

Consider applying these principles to your daily interactions and decision-making processes. The ripple effects of servant leadership can extend far beyond your immediate circle, fostering positive change in communities and industries.

Whether you’re a seasoned executive or an aspiring leader, these books about servant leadership​will challenge you to rethink your approach to management and inspire you to create positive change in your organization.

Join me on this transformative journey and discover how servant leadership books can elevate your team, business, and personal growth. Let’s level up your leadership together!

I encourage you to take action today by integrating servant leadership principles into your daily life and workplace. Your leadership can be a force for good, inspiring others to reach their full potential. Thank you for joining me on this exploration of servant leadership book reviews, and I look forward to hearing about the positive impact you’ll make as you serve and lead with purpose.