Must Read Business Books
In 2021 I got back into reading and haven’t stopped since. I love to read self-help books, business books, thriller, mystery, and more. The books I talk about in this blog changed my perspective on multiple aspects in my life and have ultimately helped me become the entrepreneur I am today.
Books can be boring and you may even find it hard to focus when reading. That is why I can not stress enough the importance of finding your favorite genres and sticking to them. If you are not a businessman or woman, these books probably won't be a valuable read for you. But if you are into business these books may change your life like they did for me, so let’s get into it!
THE DEFINING DECADE: WHY YOUR TWENTIES MATTER
This book was one of those reads that left me feeling like a new person. When I turned 20, I had a realization… a crisis some would say. I had a day where I just felt like I was not doing enough. I looked at my social media and hated what I saw, I looked at my grades and felt disappointed, I saw my apartment and felt poor. Then I read this book and it really helped me out of these thoughts.
This book is about a psychologist who writes about her patients and their stories. Now some would say this book isn’t necessarily business but to me it touched every aspect of life from love to family to business so I think it qualifies because ultimately they all tie together. Step one to being a successful business person is to know that outside factors also play a part in your success. Anyway, the author discusses failures and successes from all different patients she has spent her career studying and it really opens your eyes to the fact that you are not alone. She touches on the fact that your twenties actually do matter and everything you do in those 10 years plays a huge role in who you will be in your thirties, forties, fifties, etc. It is a valuable book of lessons and stories that are written perfectly. If I had to recommend a book to anyone, I would recommend this one, of course only if they were in their twenties.
SHOE DOG
In "Shoe Dog," Phil Knight, the co-founder of Nike, takes us on an exhilarating journey through the highs and lows of building one of the world's most iconic brands. Knight's memoir is a testament to the power of perseverance, resilience, and unwavering belief in one's vision. From humble beginnings in a cramped garage to navigating the complicated landscape of the athletic footwear industry, Knight's story is a captivating tale of true entrepreneurship.
This book taught me the significance of cultivating meaningful relationships and building a strong team. Knight's partnership with his co-founder and the unwavering loyalty of his employees served as a reminder that success is seldom achieved alone. It reinforced the importance of surrounding oneself with individuals who share the same vision and are willing to go above and beyond to bring it to fruition. Beyond its entrepreneurial insights, it reminded me to cherish the journey, to embrace the excitement and uncertainty that comes with pursuing our dreams. It served as a reminder that success is not solely measured by financial gains but by the fulfillment derived from pursuing one's passions wholeheartedly. This is also a great audiobook.
HOW TO WIN FRIENDS AND INFLUENCE PEOPLE
You have probably heard of this classic. This book acts as a guiding light in the realm of interpersonal relationships and effective communication. It offers practical advice and strategies to navigate the complexities of human interactions, fostering genuine connections and cultivating influence. Carnegie shares invaluable insights that have the power to transform both personal and professional lives.
Personally, this book has been a game-changer in my own journey of building meaningful relationships. The book emphasizes the importance of listening attentively, showing genuine interest, and understanding others' perspectives. By implementing these principles, I have witnessed a remarkable improvement in my ability to connect with people on a deeper level and build stronger, more authentic bonds. One key takeaway from this book for me was to always remember people’s names. When you use someone's first name and remember it, it makes a whole world of a difference, especially in sales.
Furthermore, Carnegie's teachings have had a profound impact on my professional life. The book emphasizes the significance of empathy, appreciation, and the ability to provide sincere praise. "How to Win Friends and Influence People" has taught me that true success lies not in manipulating others but in fostering mutual respect and creating win-win situations. This is another one of those books where if you are in the business world, this is a must read.
