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Thinking of starting your own business? Already have? Or simply curious to find how it’s done, or what successful entrepreneurs have learned along the way? We’ve got you covered with a list of the best books on the subject, filled with wisdom and guidance on the challenges (and rewards) of entrepreneurship.

Mastermind Dinners by Jayson Gaignard

Networking is crucial, not just for entrepreneurs. In Mastermind Dinners, Jayson Gaignard explains exactly how to do it successfully by giving you the blueprint for the perfect networking dinner. Written in an honest, friendly tone, it’s the exact same method he used to go from a $250,000 debt to a successful business.

Will It Fly? by Pat Flynn

Got a great idea you want to share with the world? Will It Fly? has all the tips and tricks you’ll need to turn that idea into a successful business. Even better, Pat Flynn shows you how to test that idea so you don’t waste time and money on something that’ll never take off. Flynn runs a successful podcast, and his book is filled with life lessons and advice from former guests.

The Introvert Entrepreneur by Beth Buelow

Not that great at small talk? Scared of presenting your business idea to a room full of strangers? Work best alone in a quiet room? In her book, Beth Buelow explains how to take those introvert characteristics you think are holding you back and turn them into advantages.

The School of Greatness by Lewis Howes

A career-ending injury left pro footballer Lewis Howes broke and living on his sister’s couch, but he didn’t let that knock him down. Taking theories learned on the sports field and adjusting them, he built a multi-million dollar business and turned himself into a successful entrepreneur, podcaster, speaker, and author. His book is filled with tips on how to pick yourself back up after falling down, and it’s an incredibly inspirational read.

Traction by Gabriel Weinberg and Justin Mares

Struggling to get the ball rolling on your business? Building a product is the easy part. The hard part is getting customers, and keeping them. Traction explains how to do just that. It provides 19 channels you can use to build your customer base, and a 3-step framework to figure out which ones are best for you. It’s filled with lessons and examples to help you grow and sustain your business. A must-read for any entrepreneur.

How to Start a StartUp by ThinkApps

Thousands of startups are launched every month, but very few actually succeed. How can you make sure yours not only survives, but thrives? Based on a Stanford University course taught by Y Combinator (the startup accelerator behind companies like Dropbox and Airbnb), How to Start a StartUp is a gem of a book filled with expert advice from some of Silicon Valley’s most successful entrepreneurs. It’s got all the information you need on how to launch (and grow) your business.

Little Bets by Peter Sims

Every great idea starts small. Apple and Google didn’t explode onto the scene overnight. Little Bets teaches you how to take your ideas and and turn them into something that may just revolutionize the world. Learn how to embrace uncertainty, take a chance, and learn from your mistakes. It’s not about “go big or go home”. It’s all about “start small and grow from there”.

The $100 Startup by Chris Guillebeau

Bored of your 9-5 job? Not content with working for someone else? Becoming your own boss and working on your own terms is easier than you think, as Chris Guillebeau’s book explains. Filled with crucial insights from entrepreneurs who started their businesses on less than $100, it’s a great read for anyone without a large investment capital wishing to strike out on their own.

The Lean Startup by Eric Ries

Inability to adapt is a death sentence for any startup. Eric Ries teaches you how to adapt and embrace changes, whether technological or otherwise, and make your business even more successful. It’s not about what you want, it’s about what your customers want. It’s a must-read if you want to learn how to constantly test and adjust your vision and product, and grow your business in the process.

Bold by Steven Kotler and Peter Diamandis

“A visionary roadmap for people who believe they can change the world—and invaluable advice about bringing together the partners and technologies to help them do it.” — President Bill Clinton

The above quote pretty much says it all. This is a book about using emerging technology to your advantage, taking risks, and going from “I’ve got an idea” to “I’m running a multi-million dollar company”. Filled with insights from Larry Page, Elon Musk, Richard Branson and Jeff Bezos, it’s a must-read for anyone wishing to take their business to the next level.

Got any other great book recommendations for entrepreneurs? Let us know in the comments below!

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Emir Zecovic

Emir is the Head of Marketing at 12min. In his spare time, he loves to meditate and play soccer.