Here are out top 10 Inspirational Reads for your SME, because running a successful small to medium size enterprise (SME) is a 24/7 365 affair. Even when a business experiences its annual downtime, the owner is still dreaming and planning ahead. Learn from the best with these inspirational books.

Table of Contents

• The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People – Stephen R. Covey
• Deep Work – Cal Newport
• How to Win Friends and Influence People – Dale Carnegie
• Start with Why – Simon Sinek
• Dare to Lead – Brené Brown
• The Hard Thing About Hard Things – Ben Horowitz
• The Lean Startup – Eric Ries
• The Outsiders – William N. Thorndike
• Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion – Robert B. Cialdini Ph.D.
• Think and Grow Rich – Napoleon Hill
• KEY TAKEAWAYS

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People – Stephen R. Covey

This timeless classic is a must for anyone seeking personal and professional growth. Covey’s insights go beyond mere productivity tips, delving into the core principles that shape a successful and fulfilling life. The book offers practical wisdom, relatable anecdotes, and real-life examples.

Deep Work – Cal Newport

In this digital hyper-connected world, it is easy to become distracted and struggle to work deeply. In “Deep Work” the author provides a roadmap for regaining control of our attention.

How to Win Friends and Influence People – Dale Carnegie

Connections and relationships drive success on every level of a person’s life. “How to Win Friends and Influence People” is a practical, people-centric guide on human interaction. It is another ageless book that deserves a place on every bookshelf or digital library.

Start with Why – Simon Sinek

What is the key to lasting business success? According to Simon Sinek it is the golden circle concept—starting with why, followed by how, and then what. This book challenges traditional methods of managing and marketing when it comes to inspiring others and fostering loyalty.

Dare to Lead – Brené Brown

“Dare to Lead” offers practical strategies for leaders on all levels. It’s a call to action for leaders to show up authentically, be open to discomfort, and lead with empathy. The author challenges the conventional notion of toughness as a prerequisite for effective leadership.

The Hard Thing About Hard Things – Ben Horowitz

Want the real hard truth about running a business? This book is a no-nonsense guide to handling layoffs, managing a crisis, and making tough calls as a leader.

The Lean Startup – Eric Ries

Running a start-up isn’t easy but “The Lean Startup” offers practical advice for entrepreneurs. He introduces the concept of the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) and emphasises the importance of customer feedback and continuous improvement.

The Outsiders – William N. Thorndike

Learn top management secrets from eight outstanding yet overlooked CEOs like Henry Singleton and John Malone. This book offers a refreshing perspective on what truly drives long-term business success.

Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion – Robert B. Cialdini PH.D.

Want the “yes” from your list of potential customers? “Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion” teaches you about the psychology behind human behaviour. This informative book covers personal and professional contexts  with practical examples.

10. Think and Grow Rich – Napoleon Hill

“Think and Grow Rich” is another timeless book. It’s not only a blueprint for financial success but a philosophy for a fulfilling life. The author explains how the power of thought can shape a person’s destiny. Even though the book was written in 1937, the real-life stories and advice are very applicable today.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• For a timeless manual to build character and achieve genuine success  read: The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.
• Want to master the art of conversation? Read: How to Win Friends and Influence People.
• To produce valuable, high-quality work in an age of incessant interruptions read: Deep Work.
• For guidance on how to embrace vulnerability and be brave in business read: Dare to Lead.
• For help with the unpredictable journey of building and leading a successful company read: The Hard Thing About Hard Things.
• Need advice for a more agile and sustainable approach to building a business read: The Lean Startup.
• To understand the essence of true motivation read: Start with Why.
• For valuable lessons on how unconventional thinking can lead to extraordinary results read: The Outsiders.
• To learn what triggers changes in human behaviour read: Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion
• If you are looking to apply your mind more positively in 2024 read: Think and Grow Rich.