Can a book help you become a great entrepreneur?
What is the second most important part of being an entrepreneur, after you start a business? As with any new endeavor, gathering information and informing yourself before jumping in can save you loads of trouble down the road. The old adage “proper prior planning prevents problems” is as applicable today as it ever was. As a new entrepreneur, knowing what you don’t know is crucial, and information is power. Your reputation will be the key to your success, so put your best foot forward by being knowledgeable about your new field. Trust me, people will notice.[adrotate group=”4″]
Below is what I consider must-reads for the new entrepreneur. They will provide you with much of the information and advice you need to be a new and successful entrepreneur.
The Innovator’s Dilemma by Clayton Christensen
Christensen defines “disruptive innovation” as the ability to anticipate customers’ future needs. This book emphasizes the need to address the future needs of consumers versus their current needs.
Rework by Jason Fried
Successful entrepreneurs think outside the box. This book identifies social norms and how to disrupt the status quo.
Launch! by Scott Duffy
Using examples and anecdotes, Duffy teaches you how to breathe new life into any project. His expertise as a businessman is invaluable to new entrepreneurs.
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Steven Covey
Learn to prioritize, organize, and stay on task with this book. Learn the “Urgent/Important prioritization matrix and many other classic Covey skills which will make you a better entrepreneur. New or experienced this book is a useful tool.
The 50th Law by Robert Greene and 50 Cent
“Fear nothing” is the theme of this book. Robert Green is well known for his other books, The 33 strategies of War, and The 48 Laws of Power, among others. Highlighting the struggles of 50 Cent to overcome adversity it is a message of hope and encouragement.
The Lean Startup by Eric Ries
The premise of this book says startups should be viewed as science experiments. Test and analyze everything you do. Based on principles included in Steve Blank’s book, The Four Steps to the Epiphany, it discusses the practicality of testing ideas to determine demand.
Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill
Napoleon Hill’s book is a classic. This book has been motivating entrepreneurs since 1937. Hill was inspired by Andrew Carnegie. Think and Grow Rich is more about philosophy than a step-by-step guide. It is, nevertheless, a timeless work.
Crossing the Chasm by Geoffery A. Moore
The author breaks down adoption cycles and how they affect your product’s lifecycle. You’ll learn about “traction” and how traction is not always enough to guarantee market success.
Hackers & Painters: Big Ideas from the Computer Age by Paul Graham
In this book, Paul Graham supports his claim that anyone with an idea can take a shot. Using historical examples, it provides a glimpse into the author’s unique thinking.
The 4-Hour Work Week by Tim Ferriss
This book will teach you the tricks used by the “New Rich” to eradicate half of your workload. You’ll learn that by outsourcing and delegating you can live the life you want today.
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