Success doesn’t always find allegiance in hard work- it’s the core idea and the impact it might have that brings the goodwill for the brand. Hence, it is of utmost importance, for entrepreneurs, to constantly challenge their minds. Reading, to a great extent, helps in that as it gives one a wider perspective while challenging old perceptions. This paves a path for the onset of that elusive BIG IDEA- that is a make-or-break for any organisation. To cement this habit, here are a few reads that have been recommended by the best of minds:
The End of Power – by Moisés Naím
How can we resist the urge to start this list by a recommendation from Mark Zuckerberg? It’s a no-brainer as his contribution towards entrepreneurship has had the most definitive rise in this decade. It’s no surprise that Mr Zuckerberg lays lavish praises on this book, as it matches his core beliefs, to a great extent. The book talks about that absolute shift of power from the larger authoritative groups to individual levels, keeping in mind the economic and social implications. It is a wealth of knowledge for any entrepreneur as it sheds light on the power of great strategy to retain dominance.
The 7 Habits of Highly Successful People by Stephen Covey
Jodie Fox has elevated our quest for the purchase of the right pair of shoes- literally. Being one of three co-founders of Shoes of Prey, communication and product development has been her Achilles Heel n terms of garnering popularity. Hence, she recommends the oft-quoted The 7 Habits of Highly Successful People, as a guide for success. This best-seller focuses on principles like integrity, honesty and dignity to not just shape a person’s attitude, but also be the cornerstone for any successful business. Exhibiting these habits can change the game for not just the entrepreneurs but also the basic fabric for conducting business.
Business Adventures by John Brooks
If a recommendation is coming from the likes of Bill Gates, it would be worth gold. Proving his mettle in the world of entrepreneurship and philanthropy, Mr Gates is the perfect candidate in terms of providing insights on how taking a risk is important for success. This book has been the bible of sorts for leading entrepreneurs, with its collection of valuable essays written in the ’60s. These essays strive to humanize the otherwise cut-throat workings of conducting business. Here, the takeaway lies in the importance of company values- something that modern age start-ups need to remember.
The Lean Startup: How Today’s Entrepreneurs Use Continuous Innovation to Create Radically Successful Businesses
Most of you have heard of Julie Stevanja, the brains behind popular activewear website Stylerunner. To break through and carve a niche for her brand amongst heavyweights such as Adidas, Nike and Puma have required more than just plain gumption but also the judicious use of innovation as a driver for change. She is the best person to advocate The Lean Startup, embodying the very spirit of the book in her actions. This book takes an approach to entrepreneurism, keeping sustainable practices and constant movement as core factors.
Creativity Inc. by Ed Catmull
Refinery29 wouldn’t find relevance in our minds if it wasn’t for Piera Gelardi, the maven behind this ultimate space for women. While she has a lot to juggle, keeping a tab on the freshness of the content is probably the feat that segregates her brand from the rest. She cites her inspiration from Creativity Inc, by one of the most revered creators there is. The author Ed Catmull, current president of Pixar, walks us through his journey to the top- aka the birth and success of Pixar. It is essential in teaching all the importance of failure and how that can be churned as a factor towards success.
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