Starting a business can be fraught with decisions of all kinds. From matters of finance to what type of company you’ll create, there's a lot going on. In our article on how to start a limited company, we go into some of the options available to new business owners.
But entrepreneurs also need something else – inspiration. Although there are no guarantees on where you can get said creativity from, turning to the experts can sometimes help. We’ve outlined five books on business that you have to read, whether it’s to get you started or to encourage you to continue.
1. Think And Grow Rich – Napoleon Hill
Don’t let the fact that this book was written in 1937 put you off. It contains wisdom that’s been useful throughout the ages, and it continues to inspire new business leaders to this day. Think and Grow Rich has sold over 100 million copies worldwide, inspiring entrepreneurs everywhere.
The book goes into details of the habits of highly successful people. It outlines 13 principles known as the ‘Philosophy of Achievement’, and explains how you can achieve anything that you can conceive and believe. No matter what stage of business you’re at, this is a must-read.
2. Will It Fly?: How to Test Your Next Business Idea So You Don't Waste Your Time and Money – Pat Flynn
It’s often hard to know whether you’re brilliant business idea has the legs to be a success. Many people struggle to understand whether their concept is robust enough for them to commit their time, effort, and finances towards. With Will it Fly, Pat Flynn gives you the tools to figure out exactly that.
With this title, you’ll learn how to spot if your ideas have merit, whether it will succeed in the market you’re aiming for, and whether it’s a good idea for you. In other words, it lets you identify whether it will fly.
3. The Lean Startup: How Constant Innovation Creates Radically Successful Businesses – Eric Ries
If you’re an entrepreneur with an idea for a startup, this is a book you simply must-read. As it highlights, most new businesses fail, but many of these failures are preventable. The Lean Startup arms readers with an approach to business that’s being adopted by top companies around the world.
One of the key lessons from this book is learning how to test, adjust, and adapt your ideas to meet the needs of your customers. These principles are essential if you’re to run a successful business.
4. Traction: Get a Grip on Your Business – Gino Wickman
Those who have successfully started their own business often then face the frustrations associated with running it. Growth, profit, and personnel woes face most company owners, but it’s how you deal with them that determines your success.
Traction teaches you the secrets of strengthening six key areas of your business. Implementing these tips will see you more focus, success, and enjoyment.
5. Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of NIKE – Phil Knight
Sometimes, it’s useful to get some examples of true success stories. They don’t come much bigger than Phil Knight at NIKE. From his humble beginnings, borrowing $50 to create his first company, Phil Knight created one of the most successful companies in the world. This story goes into the ups and downs he faced along the way.