Been There Done That.

I don’t remember who said it and I am paraphrasing here but whatever you aspire to accomplish, someone else has already done it and wrote an amazing book about the experience.

The most important thing that I ever did for my own success was force myself to love to read. I’m not shy about saying that. I used to hate reading. It wasn’t until it became unbelievably practical to my ambitions that I started reading.

These are the seven titles entrepreneurs must read that I found to be the most important on my own entrepreneurial journey.

1. Profit First by Mike Michalowicz

Practical money management for business owners

Are you trapped in the ‘hustle harder’ cycle, often seeing little to no financial reward for your efforts? In “Profit First,” Mike Michalowicz flips traditional business finance on its head to create a cash management system that’ll change the way you look at profit. His straightforward approach to taking your profit first makes monetary milestones achievable and, dare I say, fun. This book is the financial revolution your business needs.

2. The E-Myth by Michael E. Gerber

The myth that small businesses fail and what to do about it

The E-Myth is of a solo entrepreneur facing the inevitable burnout when the reality of running a business alone sets in. Michael E. Gerber proposes systems are the solution to staving off burnout. He helps readers identify which ‘hats’ – creative, management, and technical – they wear, and how to balance and systemize these roles to create a scalable business. Gerber’s insight is essential for anyone who ever thought they could turn their passion into a lucrative business.

3. How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie

The timeless guide to building relationships

It may seem like an unusual consideration for the entrepreneur’s reading list, but Dale Carnegie’s classic is as relevant today as it was when it was first published. Business success hinges on your ability to build and maintain meaningful relationships, from customers to employees. Carnegie’s principles guide you to be a better listener, encourager, and appreciator. After all, business is still, at its core, about people.

4. The Hard Thing About Hard Things by Ben Horowitz

Building a business when there are no easy answers

Ben Horowitz’s book is a rare, honest look at the difficulties of entrepreneurship, featuring his insights into managing the unpredictable challenges that come your way. From personnel management to making critical decisions, “The Hard Thing About Hard Things” provides applicable advice and real-world examples that teach you to maintain your composure during the stormiest of business weather.

5. The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John C. Maxwell

Keys to successful leadership

In “The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership,” John C. Maxwell dispenses leadership principles that are both engaging and practically applicable. Maxwell’s book can turn even the most hesitant of leaders into confident role models. It’s an essential guide that’ll provide the foundational knowledge needed to lead your team with clarity, vision, and effectiveness.

6. Surrounded by Idiots: The Four Types of Human Behavior and How to Effectively Communicate with Each in Business (And in Life) by Thomas Erikson

Mastering the art of effective communication

As an entrepreneur, effective communication could arguably be your most crucial skill. “Surrounded by Idiots” helps decode the complexities of human behavior, teaching you to identify and adapt to different communication styles. This knowledge is invaluable when it comes to team building, customer relations, and every other interpersonal aspect of business.

7. Let My People Go Surfing: The Education of a Reluctant Businessman by Yvon Chouinard

Creating a better business model, one page at a time

Patagonia’s founder Yvon Chouinard presents a masterclass in incorporating values into your business with “Let My People Go Surfing.” From environmentally friendly practices to a laid-back work culture, Chouinard weaves his business philosophy with his life’s adventure. This book inspires the kind of business that’s daring, progressive, and in tune with the global community.

Build Your Business Library

If you’re on the road to building your business, you’re undoubtedly facing challenges that these authors have navigated before. Their insights will help clarify your vision, sharpen your tools, and energize your entrepreneurial spirit. I encourage you to make a passionate hobby of absorbing information, be it from books, podcast, youtube, or from DIYStacks. Take advantage of all the free information at your disposal.

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