According to the writers at Behavioral Scientist, being intellectually humble is a good thing. People who admit that they don't know everything about anything are more likely to question themselves and become motivated learners. Considering and studying other points of view from others who have "been there" is one of the best ways to increase knowledge and skills and drive innovation and intellectual growth. Entrepreneurs aren't different from anyone else; even the most successful ones can learn a lot from a darn good book, and here are some of the best ones out there.
1. "Atomic Habits" by James Clear: This book teaches readers about eliminating destructive behaviors and embracing good ones by making small changes to everyday routines through a four-step process. Those minor adjustments to everyday routines can add up, building into enormous, positive long-term change.
2. "Smarter Faster Better: The Secrets of Being Productive in Life and Business" by Charles Duhigg: This author researched a series of stories shared by professionals worldwide and used this information to show others how to be more efficient. It focuses on goal setting, motivation, and decision-making.
3. "Building a Story Brand: Clarify Your Message So Customers Will Listen" by Donald Miller: Written for marketing professionals and anyone else who wants to communicate more effectively, this book teaches about using universal storytelling elements to improve brand messaging.
4. "Think and Grow Rich" by Napoleon Hill: This was published in 1937, but its message still rings true 85 years later. Hill explains his Law of Success philosophy and simple, basic techniques with a more spiritual focus that incorporates loving family relationships, working with business associates, achieving harmony and peace of mind, and reaping significant financial rewards.
5. "Entrepreneurial You: Monetize Your Expertise, Create Multiple Income Streams, and Thrive" by Dorie Clark: This well-reviewed book discusses how people can earn money doing what they love. The author also shares advice about building a brand, monetizing expertise, and extending online reach. Harvard Business Review Press called this "one of the most important business books of 2017."
6. "The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business" by Charles Duhigg: This second Duhigg book stresses the importance of understanding the science behind habits. According to his research, this is the only way people can build better habits that can harness their true potential.
7. "Wisdom from a Humble Jellyfish: And Other Self-Care Rituals from Nature” by Rani Shah: Work-life balance is crucial for successful entrepreneurs, and this author compares humans to jellyfish! These sea creatures are efficient at spending their energy and taking frequent rest breaks. Shah shares much more insightful wisdom, plus some self-care tips and recommendations.
8. "Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us" by Daniel H. Pink: This New York Times bestseller theorizes that while external rewards can seem beneficial, they're not the best source for true motivation. His provocative, persuasive book focuses on other human needs, like learning, creating new things, and doing better for ourselves and the world at large.
9. "Traction: Get a Grip on Your Business" by Gino Wickman: Directed towards entrepreneurs who face challenges from declining profits, inadequate growth and personnel issues, "Traction" looks at ways to strengthen businesses through six vital components. Wickman advises entrepreneurs to be consistent, no matter what the extenuating circumstances may be.
10. "Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action" by Simon Sinek: Audiences viewed Simon Sinek's 2009 Ted Talk 56 million times, and he told his audience that "People don't buy what you do; they buy why you do it." His book plays on this theme, intending to get entrepreneurs to learn about doing business with others who share the same beliefs.
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