In the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship, having the right guidance can make all the difference.
Fortunately, some of the world’s leading business thinkers and innovators have shared their insights in books that offer invaluable lessons. There, you can find practical strategies for starting and growing a business in them. Learn how to change your mindset for that of a winner and explore authors’ personal success and failure stories.
We have compiled a list of the best books for entrepreneurs to explore. Whether you enjoy the old-fashioned feeling of a hardcover or prefer an electronic version, we are sure you will find the best fit for you.
Have a look and choose the next book that will take your game to the next level. Happy reading!
20 must-read books for entrepreneurs
1. “Zero to One” by Peter Thiel
The book has a unique perspective on building a startup and emphasizes creating something innovative. Going from “zero to one” gives you a fresh approach to creating a successful tech business.
Morover, Marc Andreessen said that “Zero to One is the first book any working or aspiring entrepreneur must read—period.”
2. “Start with Why” by Simon Sinek
Simon’s first and most popular book explores the importance of purpose and vision in leadership and entrepreneurship. In it, he emphasizes how starting with “why” can inspire both teams and customers. Sinek’s insights are valuable for work and our lives in general.
3. “The E-Myth Revisited” by Michael E. Gerber
In this book, you can join the author on a walk through all stages in the life of a business. He breaks down common misconceptions around starting a business and gives practical advice on running an efficient, scalable, and sustainable venture.
4. “Shoe Dog” by Phil Knight
The memoir of Nike’s founder offers an inspiring look at the challenges and triumphs of building one of the world’s most iconic brands.
With stories of risk, setbacks, triumphs, and the relationships that fueled Nike’s rise, Knight reveals the journey from selling shoes out of his car to building a $30 billion empire.
5. “The Lean Startup” by Eric Ries
This groundbreaking guide for entrepreneurs focuses on creating and managing successful startups in uncertain environments.
It’s about optimizing success and creating products that people truly want and need through utilizing continuous innovation, fast iteration, and validated learning.
6. “Atomic Habits” by James Clear
A comprehensive guide on how consistent changes in habits can lead to remarkable results, essential for entrepreneurial success and personal productivity.
Get 1% better every day with a simple set of rules for creating good habits and breaking the bad ones.
7. “The $100 Startup” by Chris Guillebeau
This book is going to guide you with practical insights and case studies on how you can create a thriving business with little startup capital.
It focuses on micro businesses and the shift toward a leaner, more flexible entrepreneurial model.
8. “Good to Great” by Jim Collins
This one will show you how good companies transform into great ones, with insights into leadership, company culture, and strategic growth.
It shows how greatness is a matter of conscious choice and discipline.
9. “Traction” by Gino Wickman
Gino Wickman provides a practical framework for entrepreneurs to strengthen their businesses using the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS).
He outlines key strategies for achieving clarity, focus, and control over business operations. Moreover, he gives a set of concepts and tools to help readers manage and grow their businesses more effectively.
10. “The Hard Thing About Hard Things” by Ben Horowitz
Get advice from one of Silicon Valley’s most respected and experienced entrepreneurs. He offers practical advice on navigating the toughest challenges while building a company, from managing crises to making difficult decisions.
Receive the latest articles, news, events, business & career opportunities to your inbox!
Subscribe to AlphaGamma!
11. “Blue Ocean Strategy” by W. Chan Kim and Renée Mauborgne
These two authors introduce a new approach to business strategy focused on creating uncontested market space, or “blue oceans,” rather than competing in overcrowded markets.
They show how companies can break away from fierce competition by offering innovative value propositions that differentiate them from rivals.
12. “Rich Dad Poor Dad” by Robert T. Kiyosaki
This book challenges conventional views on money, emphasizing the importance of financial literacy, investing in assets, and understanding how money works.
This also is the first finance-themed book I’ve ever read. It introduces the language of finance and the idea of financial independence in a very approachable way.
13. “Crushing It!” by Gary Vaynerchuk
In this one, Gary acts as a motivational guide for entrepreneurs looking to build personal brands and achieve business success using social media.
He provides actionable advice for leveraging online presence, following passion, and turning side hustles into thriving ventures.
14. “The 5 Levels of Leadership” by John Maxwell
John Maxwell outlines a clear framework for developing leadership skills and influence through humor, in-depth insight, and examples.
He shows the reader how to rise to the next level and become a more influential, respected, and successful leader.
15. “Rework” by Jason Fried & David Heinemeier Hansson
Rework challenges conventional business wisdom with a fresh approach to entrepreneurship and productivity. The book advocates for simplicity, agility, and efficiency, encouraging readers to question traditional methods like long-term planning, meetings, and excessive work hours.
You’ll learn how to be more productive through counterintuitive ideas that will inspire and provoke you.
16. “The Art of the Start 2.0” by Guy Kawasaki
A practical guide for entrepreneurs on how to start and grow a successful business with added Guy’s latest insights and practical advice about social media, crowdfunding, cloud computing, and more.
The book provides essential tools for turning ideas into thriving ventures while emphasizing the importance of passion, perseverance, and adaptability in the entrepreneurial journey.
17. “Dare to Lead” by Brené Brown
Through research and personal insights, Brené Brown provides practical strategies for embracing difficult conversations, building resilience, and leading with integrity.
She encourages leaders to cultivate a culture of openness and compassion, where creativity and collaboration can thrive.
18. “Faster Better: The Transformative Power of Real Productivity” by Charles Duhigg
Through compelling stories and research, Duhigg identifies eight key principles that drive efficiency, such as setting clear goals, managing focus, and harnessing motivation.
He emphasizes the importance of decision-making, innovation, and effective team collaboration in boosting performance and achieving transformative results.
19. “The 4-Hour Workweek” by Tim Ferriss
Ferriss shares strategies on automating income, outsourcing tasks, and focusing on what truly matters to achieve financial freedom and live life on your terms.
He encourages readers to escape the traditional 9-to-5 grind, redefine success, embrace remote work, and prioritize time over money to create a more fulfilling and adventurous lifestyle.
20. “Built to Last” by Jim Collins & Jerry I. Porras
Based on extensive research, this book identifies core principles that distinguish long-lasting, successful businesses from their competitors.
Collins and Porras highlight the importance of having strong values, a clear purpose beyond profit, and a willingness to adapt without losing core identity.
Which of those books was your favourite? Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments below, or fill in the contact form to suggest any additions that we should list here.
For more life-changing opportunities, subscribe to our weekly newsletter and follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.