I’m a HUGE reader and lover of books. Whether you’re on a plane or at the beach, summer is the perfect time to catch up on your reading. Here’s a short list of books written for and by ambitious entrepreneurs that I’ve enjoyed. They aren’t new – but then, the best books usually aren’t. 🙂
1. Think and Grow Rich
Like so many entrepreneurs, this tops my reading list. American billionaire Andrew Carnegie commissioned Napoleon Hill to interview the most successful men of their day and find out what took them to the top. The result is a list of 13 common keys to success, all of which can be learned. I always learn something new every time I read this.
2. The 4-Hour Work Week
This book made a huge splash when it was first published because of the unconventional “mobile lifestyle” it advocated. The 4-Hour Work Week offers a plan for streamlining your life and business, broken down into four sections: define, eliminate, automate and liberate. Whatever your opinion of it, this book offers information on how to think like a true lifestyle entrepreneur.
3. Today Matters
John Maxwell reminds us that we often overestimate tomorrow and underestimate today. …And that it really doesn’t take much to succeed. In fact, there are only about 12 decisions and disciplines (the “daily dozen”) which determine our success.
I’ve had the privilege of hearing John Maxwell speak in person many times and attended his day-long leadership conferences at my local church. His advice is always timely and very practical.
4. The E-Myth Revisited
In this best-seller, Michael Gerber points out the often-overlooked distinction between working in your business and working on your business. He points out the huge difference between just being a baker and actually running a baking business. According to Amazon.com, he walks you through the steps of entrepreneurial life, from infancy to adolescent growing pains and finally to entrepreneurial maturity.
I was especially taken with his point about how most people quit their job to start their own business (baking is the example here), without ever realizing that there’s a HUGE difference between just being a baker and owning and running an actual baking business. Understanding the difference, and preparing for the requirements of running a business, can make the difference between success and failure.
5. No B.S. Direct Marketing
Marketing is THE key skill to running a successful business, specifically, direct marketing. And Dan Kennedy offers entrepreneurs this short and clear plan for applying timeless direct marketing principles to any type of business.
I love Dan Kennedy’s style and very practical information. But a word of warning: his style and title (No B.S. Direct Marketing: The Ultimate No- Hold- Barred, Kick-Butt, Take-No-Prisoners Direct Marketing for Non-Direct Marketing Businesses) is a bit…well, it’s not politically correct.
QUESTION: What book(s) for entrepreneurs made YOUR faves list? Please share below!
Supporting you for your success,
Michelle Nightengale
Founder & CEO
