Welcome to our curated list of the 20 best books about successful entrepreneurs! If you’re seeking inspiration, motivation, and valuable insights from the journeys of highly successful business leaders, this collection is a must-read. From biographies to practical guides, each book on successful entrepreneurs offers a unique perspective on the mindset, strategies, and experiences that have propelled these individuals to the top of their industries. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or simply intrigued by the stories of remarkable business leaders, these successful entrepreneurs books are sure to captivate and educate.
Contents
- 1 20 Best Books About Successful Entrepreneurs
- 2 Shoe Dog
- 3 Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future
- 4 The Lean Startup: How Today’s Entrepreneurs Use Continuous Innovation to Create Radically Successful Businesses
- 5 The Everything Store: Jeff Bezos and the Age of Amazon
- 6 Steve Jobs
- 7 The Innovators: How a Group of Hackers, Geniuses, and Geeks Created the Digital Revolution
- 8 Lost and Founder: A Painfully Honest Field Guide to the Startup World
- 9 The Hard Thing About Hard Things: Building a Business When There Are No Easy Answers
- 10 The $100 Startup: Reinvent the Way You Make a Living, Do What You Love, and Create a New Future
- 11 The Art of the Start 2.0: The Time-Tested, Battle-Hardened Guide for Anyone Starting Anything
- 12 The Founder’s Dilemmas: Anticipating and Avoiding the Pitfalls That Can Sink a Startup
- 13 The Third Wave: An Entrepreneur’s Vision of the Future
- 14 The Upstarts: How Uber, Airbnb, and the Killer Companies of the New Silicon Valley Are Changing the World
- 15 The Innovator’s Dilemma: When New Technologies Cause Great Firms to Fail
- 16 The E-Myth Revisited: Why Most Small Businesses Don’t Work and What to Do About It
- 17 The Lean Startup
- 18 The Innovator’s Dilemma
- 19 Zero to One: Notes on Startups, or How to Build the Future
- 20 Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead
- 21 The Outsiders: Eight Unconventional CEOs and Their Radically Rational Blueprint for Success
- 22 Conclusion
- 23
20 Best Books About Successful Entrepreneurs
Shoe Dog
by Phil Knight
Shoe Dog by Phil Knight is a captivating memoir that offers a deep insight into the journey of building Nike, one of the most iconic and successful sports brands in the world. Knight’s narrative is a compelling blend of passion, determination, and the relentless pursuit of a vision. This book on successful entrepreneurs provides a raw and honest account of the challenges, triumphs, and pivotal moments that shaped the company’s rise to greatness. Knight’s storytelling is both inspiring and relatable, making it a must-read for anyone looking for motivation and wisdom on their own entrepreneurial journey. Whether you’re an aspiring business leader or simply a fan of compelling memoirs, this book about successful entrepreneurs will leave you feeling inspired and empowered to chase your own dreams.
Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future
by Ashlee Vance
Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future is a captivating book on successful entrepreneurs that delves into the life of the innovative and ambitious Elon Musk. Ashlee Vance takes readers on a thrilling journey through Musk’s life, from his childhood in South Africa to his revolutionary work with companies like Tesla and SpaceX. This book about successful entrepreneurs provides a fascinating look at Musk’s relentless drive, innovative thinking, and unwavering determination to change the world. Vance’s engaging writing style and in-depth research make this successful entrepreneurs book a truly inspiring read for anyone interested in the stories behind the world’s most influential visionaries.
The Lean Startup: How Today’s Entrepreneurs Use Continuous Innovation to Create Radically Successful Businesses
by Eric Ries
The Lean Startup is a groundbreaking book about successful entrepreneurs that introduces the concept of continuous innovation to create radically successful businesses. Author Eric Ries advocates for a lean approach to entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of testing ideas, measuring progress, and making adjustments based on customer feedback. Ries encourages entrepreneurs to embrace a mindset of learning and adaptability, rather than relying on traditional business plans and long-term projections. By focusing on creating a minimum viable product and quickly iterating based on customer response, entrepreneurs can reduce wasted time and resources, and increase their chances of building a sustainable and successful business. The Lean Startup provides valuable insights and practical strategies for aspiring and established entrepreneurs looking to navigate the uncertainties of the modern business landscape.
The Everything Store: Jeff Bezos and the Age of Amazon
by Brad Stone
The Everything Store: Jeff Bezos and the Age of Amazon by Brad Stone is a captivating book on successful entrepreneurs that provides a comprehensive and insightful look into the rise of Amazon and its founder, Jeff Bezos. Stone delves into Bezos’ relentless drive and ambition, as well as the company’s groundbreaking innovations and disruptive business strategies. The book offers a fascinating exploration of the evolution of Amazon from an online bookstore to a global e-commerce and technology powerhouse. With meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Stone paints a vivid portrait of Bezos and the company’s journey to becoming one of the most influential and successful businesses in the world. This compelling book about successful entrepreneurs offers valuable lessons and inspiration for aspiring business leaders and anyone interested in the world of e-commerce and technology.
Steve Jobs
by Walter Isaacson
Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson is a captivating biography that delves into the life of the visionary co-founder of Apple. This book on successful entrepreneurs provides a deep insight into the mind of a man who revolutionized the technology industry and changed the way we live, work, and communicate. Isaacson’s compelling narrative takes readers on a journey through Jobs’ extraordinary career, from the founding of Apple in his parents’ garage to the creation of iconic products like the iPhone and iPad. The book about successful entrepreneurs also explores Jobs’ complex personality, his relentless pursuit of perfection, and his remarkable ability to inspire those around him. With unparalleled access to Jobs and extensive interviews with family, friends, and colleagues, Isaacson paints a vivid portrait of a man who defied convention and reshaped the world.
The Innovators: How a Group of Hackers, Geniuses, and Geeks Created the Digital Revolution
by Walter Isaacson
The Innovators by Walter Isaacson is a captivating book on successful entrepreneurs that delves into the history of the digital revolution and the brilliant minds behind it. Isaacson explores the collaborative efforts of a diverse group of individuals, from the early pioneers like Ada Lovelace and Alan Turing to the modern-day visionaries such as Bill Gates and Steve Jobs. Through engaging storytelling, the author highlights the key moments and innovations that have shaped the digital landscape we live in today, showcasing the creativity, perseverance, and teamwork of these successful entrepreneurs. This book about successful entrepreneurs offers valuable insights into the qualities and characteristics that drive innovation and change, making it an inspiring read for anyone interested in the intersection of technology, creativity, and business.
Lost and Founder: A Painfully Honest Field Guide to the Startup World
by Rand Fishkin
Lost and Founder: A Painfully Honest Field Guide to the Startup World by Rand Fishkin is a raw and candid exploration of the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. Fishkin, a renowned figure in the tech industry, shares his personal journey and the struggles he faced while building his company, Moz. This book provides valuable insights into the realities of starting and growing a business, offering practical advice and hard-earned wisdom for aspiring entrepreneurs. Fishkin’s unfiltered storytelling makes this book a refreshing and eye-opening read for anyone looking to navigate the unpredictable world of startups. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, Lost and Founder is a must-read for those seeking to learn from the experiences of a seasoned entrepreneur.
The Hard Thing About Hard Things: Building a Business When There Are No Easy Answers
by Ben Horowitz
The Hard Thing About Hard Things by Ben Horowitz is a must-read for anyone looking for valuable insights into the world of entrepreneurship. This book offers a candid and practical guide for navigating the challenges of building and running a successful business. Horowitz, a seasoned entrepreneur and venture capitalist, shares his personal experiences and hard-earned wisdom, offering readers a unique perspective on the realities of entrepreneurship. The book provides valuable advice on leadership, decision-making, and managing the inevitable ups and downs that come with building a business. Whether you’re a seasoned business owner or just starting out, this book offers valuable lessons and inspiration for anyone looking to succeed in the world of business.
The $100 Startup: Reinvent the Way You Make a Living, Do What You Love, and Create a New Future
by Chris Guillebeau
The $100 Startup by Chris Guillebeau is a captivating book on successful entrepreneurs who have reinvented the way they make a living, doing what they love, and creating a new future. Guillebeau shares inspiring stories of individuals who have built successful businesses with minimal investment. The book offers practical advice on how to identify a profitable idea, launch a business quickly and affordably, and grow it into a sustainable enterprise. With a focus on passion, freedom, and value creation, The $100 Startup is a must-read for anyone looking to break free from the traditional 9-5 grind and pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, this book about successful entrepreneurs provides valuable insights and proven strategies for achieving success on your own terms.
The Art of the Start 2.0: The Time-Tested, Battle-Hardened Guide for Anyone Starting Anything
by Guy Kawasaki
The Art of the Start 2.0 is a book about successful entrepreneurs, written by Guy Kawasaki. This time-tested and battle-hardened guide is essential for anyone starting anything. Kawasaki shares his insights and expertise on how to launch a successful venture, from pitching your ideas to raising capital and building a strong team. The book provides practical advice and actionable tips for navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, including crafting a compelling business plan, leveraging social media, and adapting to the ever-changing market. Kawasaki’s straightforward and engaging writing style makes this book a valuable resource for aspiring entrepreneurs, small business owners, and anyone looking to turn their ideas into reality. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting your journey, The Art of the Start 2.0 is a must-read for those seeking to thrive in the competitive world of business.
The Founder’s Dilemmas: Anticipating and Avoiding the Pitfalls That Can Sink a Startup
by Noam Wasserman
The Founder’s Dilemmas by Noam Wasserman is a compelling book on successful entrepreneurs that delves into the challenges and pitfalls that founders face when starting a new venture. Wasserman draws on extensive research and case studies to explore the tough decisions that entrepreneurs must make, from choosing co-founders to managing equity and dealing with conflicts. The book offers valuable insights and practical advice for navigating these dilemmas and making informed decisions that can ultimately determine the success or failure of a startup. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned business leader, this book about successful entrepreneurs is a must-read for anyone looking to build and sustain a thriving business.
The Third Wave: An Entrepreneur’s Vision of the Future
by Steve Case
The Third Wave: An Entrepreneur’s Vision of the Future by Steve Case is a compelling book about successful entrepreneurs and their impact on the future. Case, the co-founder of AOL, shares his insights on the evolution of technology and its influence on the business world. He discusses the importance of collaboration between entrepreneurs, government, and existing companies to drive innovation and create a thriving ecosystem for the next wave of successful entrepreneurs. The book offers valuable lessons and strategies for aspiring entrepreneurs, as well as established businesses looking to adapt to a rapidly changing digital landscape. With its forward-thinking approach and real-world examples, The Third Wave is a must-read for anyone interested in the future of entrepreneurship and technology.
The Upstarts: How Uber, Airbnb, and the Killer Companies of the New Silicon Valley Are Changing the World
by Brad Stone
The Upstarts by Brad Stone is a captivating book about successful entrepreneurs that delves into the rise of disruptive companies like Uber and Airbnb. Stone provides a behind-the-scenes look at the founders and the evolution of these companies, offering insights into their strategies, challenges, and impact on the world. The book takes readers on a thrilling journey through the competitive landscape of the new Silicon Valley, shedding light on the innovative minds and relentless determination of the individuals driving these groundbreaking businesses. With vivid storytelling and in-depth research, The Upstarts offers a compelling narrative of how these upstart companies are reshaping industries and fundamentally changing the way we live and do business. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a business enthusiast, or simply curious about the forces shaping our modern economy, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the dynamic world of successful entrepreneurs.
The Innovator’s Dilemma: When New Technologies Cause Great Firms to Fail
by Clayton M. Christensen
The Innovator’s Dilemma by Clayton M. Christensen is a groundbreaking book on successful entrepreneurs, exploring why great companies often fail in the face of new technologies. Christensen argues that established companies often focus on satisfying the needs of their most profitable customers, making it difficult for them to adapt to disruptive innovations. He uses real-world examples to illustrate how companies like Kodak and Blockbuster fell victim to this dilemma, while upstart companies like Netflix and Apple emerged as industry leaders by embracing disruptive technologies. This insightful book about successful entrepreneurs offers valuable lessons for both established companies and aspiring entrepreneurs, showing how to navigate the challenges of innovation and remain competitive in a rapidly changing business landscape.
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 is a must-read for anyone looking to understand the secrets behind building a successful small business. Michael E. Gerber, a renowned business guru, explores why most small businesses fail and what can be done to turn things around. Through a captivating blend of storytelling and practical advice, Gerber reveals the common pitfalls that trip up entrepreneurs and offers a roadmap for creating a thriving business. This book is not just for business owners, but for anyone with an entrepreneurial spirit looking to understand the key principles behind building a successful enterprise. With its powerful insights and actionable strategies, The E-Myth Revisited is an essential read for anyone seeking to unlock the secrets of successful entrepreneurship.
The Lean Startup
by Eric Ries
The Lean Startup by Eric Ries is a game-changing book about successful entrepreneurs and the principles they follow to build and grow their businesses. Ries introduces a method for creating and managing successful startups in an age when companies have to innovate more than ever. The book presents a scientific approach to creating and managing successful startups, using principles such as validated learning, iterative product releases, and lean thinking. Ries’s insights are based on his experiences as a successful entrepreneur and his work with many startups. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this book offers valuable lessons and practical advice for building a successful business in today’s fast-paced and uncertain world.
The Innovator’s Dilemma
by Clayton M. Christensen
The Innovator’s Dilemma by Clayton M. Christensen is a thought-provoking book that delves into the challenges faced by businesses when disruptive technologies emerge. Christensen argues that successful entrepreneurs often fail because they focus too much on sustaining their current business model, rather than embracing innovative, disruptive technologies. He explores the concept of ‘disruptive innovation’ and how it can lead to the downfall of well-established companies. The book offers valuable insights into the strategies that successful entrepreneurs can use to navigate these challenges and thrive in the face of change. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of business and innovation, and how successful entrepreneurs can adapt to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving marketplace.
Zero to One: Notes on Startups, or How to Build the Future
by Peter Thiel
Zero to One: Notes on Startups, or How to Build the Future by Peter Thiel is a thought-provoking book on successful entrepreneurs that challenges conventional wisdom about innovation and business. Thiel, a co-founder of PayPal and an early investor in Facebook, shares his insights on creating a successful startup and building a better future. He emphasizes the importance of creating something entirely new and valuable, rather than simply competing in existing markets. Thiel’s ideas are backed by his own experiences and offer a fresh perspective on entrepreneurship. This book is a valuable resource for anyone looking to start their own business or seeking to understand the mindset of successful entrepreneurs. Thiel’s unique perspective and contrarian approach make Zero to One a must-read for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders.
Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead
by Sheryl Sandberg
Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead by Sheryl Sandberg is a powerful and insightful book on successful entrepreneurs that encourages women to pursue their ambitions in the workplace. Sandberg, the COO of Facebook, shares her personal experiences and offers practical advice for women looking to advance in their careers. She addresses the barriers that many women face in the workplace and provides strategies for overcoming them. Through compelling anecdotes and research-backed insights, Sandberg explores the importance of women leaning in and taking on leadership roles. This book about successful entrepreneurs is a must-read for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of the modern workplace and achieve their professional goals. Lean In is a call to action for women to embrace their ambitions and strive for leadership positions.
The Outsiders: Eight Unconventional CEOs and Their Radically Rational Blueprint for Success
by William N. Thorndike
The Outsiders: Eight Unconventional CEOs and Their Radically Rational Blueprint for Success by William N. Thorndike is a captivating book about successful entrepreneurs who have defied conventional wisdom to achieve remarkable success. Thorndike explores the unconventional strategies of eight CEOs who led their companies to outstanding performance by prioritizing long-term value creation, capital allocation, and strategic decision-making. Through insightful case studies, this book provides valuable lessons on leadership, management, and the art of business. Readers will gain a deeper understanding of the innovative approaches and unconventional thinking that have propelled these CEOs to exceptional levels of success. The Outsiders is a must-read for anyone looking to learn from the unconventional tactics and strategies of visionary leaders who have redefined what it means to be a successful entrepreneur.
Conclusion
These 20 books about Successful Entrepreneurs offer invaluable insights into the minds and methods of some of the world’s most accomplished business leaders. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, these books provide inspiration, guidance, and practical advice for achieving success in the business world. From autobiographies to management strategies, this collection covers a wide range of topics essential for aspiring entrepreneurs. Dive into these books to gain a deeper understanding of what it takes to thrive in the competitive landscape of entrepreneurship.
Which Successful Entrepreneurs book is best?
The best book on Successful Entrepreneurs can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
- Shoe Dog by Phil Knight,
- Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future by Ashlee Vance,
- The Lean Startup: How Today’s Entrepreneurs Use Continuous Innovation to Create Radically Successful Businesses by Eric Ries.
Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.
What are the best books to learn about Successful Entrepreneurs?
For those looking to learn about Successful Entrepreneurs, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:
- Shoe Dog by Phil Knight,
- Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future by Ashlee Vance,
- The Lean Startup: How Today’s Entrepreneurs Use Continuous Innovation to Create Radically Successful Businesses by Eric Ries,
- The Everything Store: Jeff Bezos and the Age of Amazon by Brad Stone,
- Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson,
- The Innovators: How a Group of Hackers, Geniuses, and Geeks Created the Digital Revolution by Walter Isaacson,
- Lost and Founder: A Painfully Honest Field Guide to the Startup World by Rand Fishkin,
- The Hard Thing About Hard Things: Building a Business When There Are No Easy Answers by Ben Horowitz,
- The $100 Startup: Reinvent the Way You Make a Living, Do What You Love, and Create a New Future by Chris Guillebeau,
- The Art of the Start 2.0: The Time-Tested, Battle-Hardened Guide for Anyone Starting Anything by Guy Kawasaki
These books offer a range of perspectives on Successful Entrepreneurs, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.
What are the best books on Successful Entrepreneurs?
The best books on Successful Entrepreneurs include:
- Shoe Dog by Phil Knight,
- Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future by Ashlee Vance,
- The Founder’s Dilemmas: Anticipating and Avoiding the Pitfalls That Can Sink a Startup by Noam Wasserman,
- The Third Wave: An Entrepreneur’s Vision of the Future by Steve Case,
- The Hard Thing About Hard Things: Building a Business When There Are No Easy Answers by Ben Horowitz,
- The Innovators: How a Group of Hackers, Geniuses, and Geeks Created the Digital Revolution by Walter Isaacson.
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books on the topic of Successful Entrepreneurs are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.
What are the best Successful Entrepreneurs books of all time?
Choosing the best Successful Entrepreneurs books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but seven titles that are often celebrated include
- Shoe Dog by Phil Knight,
- Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future by Ashlee Vance,
- Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson,
- The Hard Thing About Hard Things: Building a Business When There Are No Easy Answers by Ben Horowitz,
- The Art of the Start 2.0: The Time-Tested, Battle-Hardened Guide for Anyone Starting Anything by Guy Kawasaki,
- The Third Wave: An Entrepreneur’s Vision of the Future by Steve Case,
- and The Founder’s Dilemmas: Anticipating and Avoiding the Pitfalls That Can Sink a Startup by Noam Wasserman.
Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Successful Entrepreneurs and continues to be influential today.