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Quest For Excellence: Those Business Books You Need To Read

Updated: Apr 12, 2023


If it’s been a while since you’ve read a book that changed the way you think and act as a business owner, then you should read this list of thought-provoking books every entrepreneur must have. Each title will intrigue, excite and inspire you—there’s no better way to boost your business journey than to immerse yourself in tips and processes created by these authors.

Determined to ensure that your Quest For Excellence has a good head start, we've collated 10 inspiring books you should study as an entrepreneur.


1. The Lean Startup by Eric Ries

THE LEAN STARTUP Eric Ries


This book is a must-read for any entrepreneur looking to build a successful startup. Ries offers practical advice on how to create a new product or service using strategies like rapid prototyping and continuous experimentation.


2. SHOE DOG by Phil Knight

SHOE DOG Phil Knight


In this memoir, the co-founder of Nike shares the story of the early days of his company, including how he built it from scratch and dealt with challenges along the way. It's a great read for anyone looking to start their own business.


3. THE 4-HOUR WORKWEEK by Tim Ferriss

THE 4-HOUR WORKWEEK Tim Ferris


This book offers a unique perspective on entrepreneurship and how to build a successful business while working fewer hours. Ferriss shares tips on outsourcing, automating tasks, and streamlining workflows to create a more efficient work-life balance.


4. START WITH WHY by Simon Sinek

START WITH WHY Simon Sinek


A popular TED Talk speaker, Sinek discusses the importance of starting with a clear "why" when building a business. He argues that a strong sense of purpose can drive success and inspire others to join your cause.


5. THE HARD THING ABOUT HARD THINGS by Ben Horowitz

THE HARD THING ABOUT HARD THINGS Ben Horowitz


This book is a realistic take on the challenges entrepreneurs face, including struggles with management, hiring, and decision-making. It offers practical advice for overcoming these challenges and building a successful company.


6. ATOMIC HABITS by James Clear

ATOMIC HABITS James Clear


This book is the definitive guide to breaking bad behaviors and adopting good ones in four steps, showing you how small, incremental, everyday routines compound into massive, positive change over time.

It is a comprehensive, practical guide on how to change your habits and get 1% better every day. Using a framework called the Four Laws of Behavior Change, Atomic Habits teaches readers a simple set of rules for creating good habits and breaking bad ones


7. THE 21 IRREFUTABLE LAWS OF LEADERSHIP by John C. Maxwell

THE 21 IRREFUTABLE LAWS OF LEADERSHIP John C. Maxwell


Want to create a productive team through well-crafted leadership? Then this book is for you. The 21 Irrefutable Laws Of Leadership shows you that leadership is learned not inherited and that you can become a leader too, if you internalize some of the universal principles at play in any leader-follower-relationship.


8. SMALL BUSINESS, BIG MONEY by Akin Alabi

SMALL BUSINESS, BIG MONEY Akin Alabi


This is a book that was written by a Nigerian for Nigerian small business owners and people who are considering becoming entrepreneurs. Akin Alabi addresses the peculiarities of doing business in Nigeria and actually thriving. He shows you how to start, grow and turn your small business into your personal ATM that will give you money on a daily basis.

You'll find the book interesting and very educational. Interesting because he chose to use an informal tone in the writing & education because you would relate to the examples he cited and the tips he gave, which would actually work in the Nigerian market. 


9. THE E-MYTH REVISITED: WHY MOST SMALL BUSINESSES DON'T WORK AND WHAT TO DO ABOUT IT by Michael E. Gerber

THE E-MYTH REVISITED: WHY MOST SMALL BUSINESSES DON'T WORK AND WHAT TO DO ABOUT IT Michael Gerber


An instant classic, this phenomenal bestseller dispels the myths about starting your own business. Small business consultant and author Michael E. Gerber, with sharp insight gained from years of experience, points out how common assumptions, expectations, and even technical expertise can get in the way of running a successful business.

Most importantly, he draws the vital, often overlooked distinction between working on your business and working in your business.

The E-Myth Revisited will help you grow your business in a productive, assured way. 



10. HOW TO WIN FRIENDS AND INFLUENCE PEOPLE by Dale Carnegie

HOW TO WIN FRIENDS AND INFLUENCE PEOPLE Dale Carnegie


As relevant as ever before, Dale Carnegie's principles endure, and will help you achieve your maximum potential in the complex and competitive modern age.

Learn the six ways to make people like you, the twelve ways to win people to your way of thinking, and the nine ways to change people without arousing resentment.

This book is a must have, as it helps in your relationship with clients and customers.


No knowledge gained is ever wasted. Investing in your personal development yields a high return on investment.

What book would you be adding to your library soon? Let us know in comments section.


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