In business knowledge is power, and sometimes this wisdom is best attained through the carefully crafted words of others.
Whether you’re starting out, at the top of your game or re-evaluating your business goals, the following is a list of seminal reads for any business operator or entrepreneur.
Each brings a unique perspective on the power of thought, motivation and strategy that is destined to inspire, help you better understand your actions and enable you to reframe your thinking for success.
Here is my list of recommended reads for anyone at any point of the business journey.
An ‘oldie but a goodie’, Think and Grow Rich looks at the ‘Philosophy of Achievement’, outlining 13 principles to achieve success. The book embraces the idea that with persistence, planning and goals, an individual can achieve the things they most desire in life.
Written by Napoleon Hill during the Great Depression, its ethos still stands the test of time today.
Crafted as a literary essay that soon became a pocket companion, As a Man Thinketh looks at the way our thoughts define us.
Or in author James Allen’s words: “It shows how, in his own thought-world, each man holds the key to every condition, good or bad, that enters into his life, and that, by working patiently and intelligently upon his thoughts, he may remake his life, and transform his circumstances”.
It’s a great insight into the power of thinking and the tools required to manage your mindset.
This seminal and ancient guide to warfare holds a place in many a business executive’s heart due to its wisdom about strategy and its insight into effective management.
Many of the lessons Sun Tzu applies to battle in The Art of War are relevant in a competitive business world, making this a go-to book for planning and effectively executing business strategy.
What to do when it is your turn
Seth Godin’s inspirational book calls on us all to do the work we are capable of in life, and provides the impetus to do so.
It’s unique, it’s easy to read, it inspires immediate action and a copy should be on every bookcase for people who want to “do” more.
How to Win Friends and Influence People
This is another title that stands the test of time, and holds firm in its position as one of the best-selling books of all time.
The value of How to Win Friends and Influence People lies in its ability to change the way you think, lead and negotiate in business and life in general.
Another hugely successful book by Napoleon Hill, The Law of Success teaches people how to recognise and overcome common fears to embrace action in life. It’s a guide to finding self-confidence, learning from failure and maintaining enthusiasm.
A valuable sales and leadership tool, The Law of Success is a must-read for all in business.
Seven Habits of Highly Effective People
This best-selling book by Stephen Covey looks at attaining goals by better understanding who you are and what you really wish to achieve.
In business it’s a resource for goal setting, effective leadership and understanding motivation.
The final word
Even if only one book in the list above resonates, time spent reading and researching the workings of a successful mind provide a big-picture insight into how you can view you business and its goals from a fresh perspective.
The wisdom within them might be just the catalyst you need at a critical time when a major decision or action is required to guide your business to success.
You can see more great resources and action plans for business here, or contact me for further advice.
