If you are in any sort of leadership position -- either a formal manager, or in that you have respect from your peers, I strongly urge you to read Deming.

There are few authors that have taught me so much about people, motivation, systems, quality, statistics, what high-leverage effort looks like, and so on.

I first picked up a book by Deming a few years ago, and not a single day has passed that I have not had use for what he taught me through his writing.

The things he says are only becoming more and more relevant with every year. I honestly think it ought to be compulsory reading in school. The world would be a much better place that way; kinder, more efficient, and less superstitial.