Books For The Entrepreneur

Starting this business, I knew NOTHING about running a business. I was learning how to take photos and all the creative side of things, but the "brick and mortar" stuff... to be honest, I kind of avoided it for awhile because it was so overwhelming.

Most of these books aren't going to teach you accounting or how to get an LLC, but they are helpful to get an idea of running a business and relating to people because that's the whole point. The rest of it is moot if you can't relate to people well :)

Called To Create by Jordan Raynor - The basic principle is that we are all called to create in some way because we are made in the image of the Creator.

Called to Create will remind you of principles and values you already hold, give you new insights, and make you think about old things in a new way.

If you are a creative or wanting to get into a venture that is creative or just know some creatives and want to maybe understand and help them a little more, READ THIS BOOK!!!!
How To Win Friends And Influence People by Dale Carnegie - This one is probably worth a re-read sometime soon. His idea is really simple and follows "put others first and treat them well" but somehow we need the reminder that is this book.
Worth Every Penny by Sarah Petty - This is written by a photographer but it is about how she runs her business and can be applied to any small business. If you aren't into the boutique model, this book wouldn't be for you.
The Go-Giver by Bob Burg - I love fiction and so it was nice to be able to learn business principles in a story format. He really drives home the point about adding value to your customers' lives, something I hear a lot from Katelyn, Amy, & Jordan.
EntreLeadership by Dave Ramsey - I liked the writing style of this book. Much of what he expounds on is based in the Golden Rule, as well as the ideas of loving and serving people well.

The Boss of You by Emira Mears - This was one of the best books that I read, for me personally. So helpful that I bought it. That being said, I disagree with them on a lot and there was some language (that happened in several business books. Very unprofessional and disappointing). There is a lot of practical information about various aspects of business.
168 Hours by Laura Vanderkam - How to organize and make the most of your time. More productivity than business, but when you work from home or your work and life are hardly separated, productivity and time management are SUPER important. Very long chapters, FYI.
No More Mondays by Dan Miller - Many people hate Mondays because they don't like their work. Miller talks about how to find work that will make you love Mondays so much, they don't seem like Mondays.
Love Is The Killer App by Tim Sanders - Loving people well is a theme of the books I read because I think it is so important. You might have noticed a trend. Every business should treat their customers well, but it's imperative for small businesses.

Have you read any of these books? What did you think? What books have been helpful to you in your life?