Books have the power to create a whole new world in which we live. They serve as a platform to feed knowledge, fuel power, entice simplicity and cultivate creativity. As a lover of all things literary, my entrancement with various genres changes often. However, this business enthused finance ridden strategic junkie has a must-read list of books I think are vital additions to your collection. Here are 10 books that every business minded person should read.
10 books that every business minded person should read.
The Success Principles by Jack Canfield
This book is not about earth-shattering revelations or a magnification of experiences. This book focuses on the mere simplicity of what you already know. And, changing the form in which you look at it. Canfield uses positivity to mold strategy to help readers achieve their goals in ways that are feasible, tactic, and succinct. While his list of principles may be lengthy, the conceptualization of each pillar he describes leaves readers with a clear vision of how best to take their next step forward.
The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John Maxwell
When you combine over 30 years of leadership experience in conjunction with practical application through means of business and politics, you can expect nothing less than 21 irrefutable laws of leadership. Maxwell uses the essence of practicality to efficiently dictate methods to improve your leadership skills. This book could be the key learning tool for business minded person.
Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes are High by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, Al Switzler
People who are skilled at conversing strategically make it safe for those around them to speak freely. Crucial Conversations is the bible of all communication methodologies. The authors manage to consolidate life-changing insights and translate them into practical means to address conversations in which high-stakes and conflict are present. This is a definite must-read for anyone dedicated to shifting their perception and communication style towards conflict resolution and leadership.
The 80/20 Principle by Richard Koch
The unspoken corollary to the 80/20 principle is that merely 20% of the work we do actually counts. Koch takes the “work smarter not harder” principle and expands it to strategize effective ways to impact time management and productivity.
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People – Powerful Lessons in Personal Change by Stephen Covey
While most business and/or strategy related books focus their attention on improving skills that can maximize success in the professional arena, Covey takes a slightly different approach with this book. He gears these 7 Habits to effectively mold readers both personally and professionally. Covey encourages readers that balance and interdependence are key to achieving a goal but also to understand that “People are more important than things, so plan your time accordingly. Be efficient with things but effective with people.”
Give and Take by Adam Grant
It goes without surprise that the individualistic perspective that drives American business has been infiltrated into the minds of countless generations of business professionals. However, Grant brings forth a unique approach to achieving personal success by supporting the success of those around us. He divides the world into 3 types of people – givers, takers, and matchers with the objective to advise readers to shift their actions to become givers. Though the book takes a more novel approach, it has useful tips that will guide readers to view their success in a more collective manner.
Understanding Michael Porter by Joan Margretta
For the readers interested in becoming industry leaders or entrepreneurial groundbreakers, this book will stand forward as the framework for development and success. Porter is notorious for his theories that have benchmarked best practices and driving business principles for years. However, many of his concepts have been misunderstood and therefore have reverse effects. Margretta uses this opportunity to translate her extensive industry knowledge in order to deliver a concise perspective on Porter’s’ paradigms for business development in a volatile marketplace.
Millionaire Mind by Thomas J. Stanley
Stanley will surprise readers with his findings on the real lives of millionaires. Many of them were not star students or those that were told they had a bright future. Instead, these people utilized their challenges as motivation to try harder and take risks that were financially rewarding. This book is a great asset for a business minded person because it is about picking apart the minds of the wealthiest. And, taking away habits that could assist readers in implementing those same traits to increase their financial stability.
Einstein: His Life and Universe by Walter Isaacson
Isaacson showcases one of the greatest masterminds in history by brewing down to the roots of what made Albert Einstein the genius he was. The book explores letters personally written by Einstein himself which develops a fascinating story of his history, creativity, and success. Einstein’s traits and viewpoints catalyzed the introduction of the modern era and if internalized, can greatly innovate progressive thinking.
Zero to One by Peter Thiel and Blake Masters
This book is a great addition to anyone looking to ignite his or her entrepreneurial spirit. Both Thiel and Masters highlight progression by proposing a new way of thinking about innovation. A noteworthy paradigm from this book is that tomorrow’s champions will not become successful by competing in the current marketplace. Instead, they will create new businesses that will shock the market.
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