Part of my undergrad degree was studying a module on entrepreneurs, their characteristics and never ending drive to be successful, no matter how many times they fail. Researching entrepreneurs showed me they all share the same sort of values, however us ladies sometimes find ourselves facing different challenges as entrepreneurs. I have selected my favourite books below that will empower, enliven and challenge you to go out there and seize the life you deserve to have.
#GIRLBOSS
Described as the millennial version to ‘Lean In’ (below review) #GIRLBOSS is an empowering read that will make you stand up and join the revolution. This book is a New York Times bestseller, written by founder and Executive Chairman of Nasty Gal, Sophia Amoruso – it is an honest insight into her story about becoming a successful entrepreneur with hard work and consistency. This book will have you up and out the door striving to do more than you’ve ever done before.
Ladies Who Launch: Embracing Entrepreneurship & Creativity as a Lifestyle
Written by female entrepreneurs for female entrepreneurs; three female friends and business partners share their journey of becoming entrepreneurs. From an initial idea they are now a formidable force, and their book is critically acclaimed for its honest and raw view of women taking on the business world. It’s an easily consumed book too, which is down to earth and has intelligent steps. A winner all round.
Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead
If you haven’t heard of Sheryl Sandberg and her ‘Lean In’ movement, I prescribe you immediately lock yourself away from the world for an hour and research her. Sheryl has been empowering women, whether entrepreneurs or not, for decades to reach out and grab their deserved careers. A huge advocate for diversity, this book is enlightening, will give you some handy tips and feel immensely proud to be a woman (as if we needed an excuse).
Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future
Elon gives a great rule that if you focus on the money from the beginning then you will fail. It can be all to easy to start seeing the pounds adding up and then obsessing about how to get more. The best thing to do is keep your mind on why you started and the vision you have for your business. Elon is the entrepreneur behind Paypal, Tesla Motors and SpaceX; he’s a Silicon Valley giant and his biography will empower you to push yourself and your business.
The 4-Hour Work Week: Escape the 9-5, Live Anywhere and Join the New Rich
If you want a fist pumping, ‘I’m getting my life together’ read, then this is the one for you. Be empowered to forgo your 9 – 5 job, move anywhere in the world and live your dream; all without feeling guilty. It will confirm your entrepreneur feelings of being brave, bold and pushing yourself. A self-made millionaire Tim Ferriss, will give you ideas and strategies on how to cut out toxic parts of your life and how you can afford that Aston Martin.
There are hundreds of books written by entrepreneurs for entrepreneurs, did I miss any out? Let me know which your favourites are.
