This year it’s time to get out there and pursue a career that you’ve always envisioned for yourself. Whether you enjoy making personalized t-shirts, or have aspirations of running a fortune 500 company, all great leaders and entrepreneurs have one thing in common, “they read books related to their field of interest”.
Start off by reading material that generally interest you and your craft. Take what you’ve learned while reading and incorporate it into your business plan or future plans. You might be surprised of how little or how much your learned about your industry.
Below is a list of seven inspiring books that I think are helpful when starting a new or existing business.
This book is great for those who wish to start a business but are hesitant about the possible risks. All start-up companies fall short somewhere, and this book is a reminder of that however, it is a good resource to have in times of doubt.
2.) The Fire Starter Sessions by Danielle LaPorte
Danielle LaPorte’s self-help book on life lessons and creating your own ideal of success is just what every entrepreneur needs when their not feeling up to the challenge. LaPorte promotes growth, positivity, and setting goals throughout each page and this is just what you need to get back on track.
3.) Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki
A personal favorite of mine “Rich Dad, Poor Dad” stresses the importance of financial literacy and education when pursuing business ventures. Kiyosaki tells his story from a different perspective, allowing readers to get a full understanding of the importance of effectively managing your money and being your own boss.
4.) The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand
“The Fountainhead” asks the question of “What motivates a creative thinker”? Page by page this question is unraveled that reveals self-truth, motivation, and relentlessness for anyone who has the desire to be something greater than they are now. Although this book is a complicated read, Ayn forces you to push through until the very end.
5.) Conscious Capitalism by John Mackey and Raj Sisodia
Co-CEO of Whole Foods John Mackey and marketing professor at Bentley College Raj Sisodia touch on the paradigms of business, stakeholders, and financial intellect for people who wish to go into business for themselves. If these are some topics that you want to learn more about then this is the book for you.
6.) The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss
Taking the traditional way of life (work hard, and retire in your sixties) is the route the Tim Ferriss suggest you NOT to take. The 4-Hour Workweek emphasizes the pros of being your own boss and creating your own hours.
7.) Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance by Robert Pirsig
Another personal favorite of mine,Robert Pirsig tells the story of a father and son who goes on a trip via motorcycle. Along the way, philosophical discussions of life, epistemology, and science are discussed between the father and his son and new meaning is brought to the father’s attention towards the end of the book.
If you’re looking for more ways to kick start your career, then you’ll enjoy this video.