Many entrepreneurs attribute a part of their success to their commitment to learning — and not just learning through formal business education. In fact, a minority of business owners have a college degree. Entrepreneurs learn through their own experiences, and they seek knowledge that will help them grow their business. This knowledge can take many forms, such as conversations with other entrepreneurs and experts, formal education, and reading.
To help you grow your business, here are four books you should check out today:
“Rise and Grind” by Daymond John
From FUBU to Shark Tank, Daymond John’s entrepreneurial journey has blessed him with a wealth of experience and insights, many of which he imparts in “Rise and Grind: Out-Perform, Out-Work, and Out-Hustle Your Way to a More Successful and Rewarding Life.” Focusing on how to maximize your time to get the best possible outcome from your efforts, John’s work is filled with practical and hard-won insights perfect for aspiring and even established entrepreneurs.
“The Black Woman Millionaire” by Dr. Venus Opal Reese
Entrepreneurship will challenge you from day one. You’ll need to marshal strengths in areas that may have always been a weakness. And you’ll need to let go of the emotional baggage that’s holding you back. In her book, “The Black Woman Millionaire: A Revolutionary Act that DEFIES Impossible,” Dr. Reese helps readers navigate the conscious and unconscious barriers many face on their path to entrepreneurship in plain-spoken and empowering language.
“How to Succeed in Business Without Being White” by Earl Graves
Though this book was written more than 20 years ago, “How to Succeed in Business Without Being White: Straight Talk on Making It in America” contains time-tested wisdom from the founder of the pioneering Black business periodical Black Enterprise. Earl Graves’ own career — which included entrepreneurship, military service, and public service — holds valuable lessons for aspiring business owners. But the book also draws on the experiences of other Black success stories and is both engaging and informative.
“Success Never Smelled So Sweet” by Lisa Price
From the founder of Carol’s Daughter beauty product line, this memoir details Ms. Price’s extraordinary journey starting out in dire financial straits to becoming a multimillionaire. “Success Never Smelled So Sweet: How I Followed My Nose and Found My Passion” is filled with practical lessons on growing a successful business and brand, as well as overcoming one’s demons.
While being an entrepreneur is ultimately the best teacher, these books will help you learn a lot more about entrepreneurship — and yourself — as well.
