Must Read Books for Small Business Owners
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Running a small business is equal parts grit, growth, and figuring it out as you go. Over the years, I’ve leaned on books not just for inspiration, but for real tools that helped me simplify systems, manage money, and make big decisions with more confidence. These aren't your average business reads—these are the ones that actually made a difference. Whether you’re deep in the hustle or dreaming of your next chapter, here are the must-reads I’d recommend to every small business owner I know.
1. Profit First by Mike Michalowicz
When I first started my business, I thought revenue growth meant success—but somehow, at the end of the month, there was never much left over. Profit First completely changed how I think about money. Instead of treating profit as whatever was left after expenses, I started allocating profit first, just like the book teaches. It felt counterintuitive at first, but it forced me to run a leaner operation and actually pay myself. I stopped dreading my bank account and started feeling more confident in the numbers.
Prioritizing profit ensures you're building a sustainable business, not just working for free.
2. Purple Cow by Seth Godin
As a small business owner, marketing can feel like shouting into the void—especially when you're trying to compete with bigger brands or newer trends. Purple Cow made me realize that trying to blend in was the problem. The businesses that thrive are the ones that are remarkable—the ones people talk about. This book gave me permission to lean into what made my business different and quirky instead of trying to play it safe. That shift is what helped me attract loyal customers who resonated with what I was building.
Being remarkable is more powerful (and profitable) than being safe.
3. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey
Running a business can feel like one long to-do list, and I used to get completely caught up in the urgent tasks without ever working on the important ones. Covey’s “7 Habits” gave me a reset. I learned to lead with intention—starting with a clear vision, managing my time better, and showing up in ways that made me proud. This book helped me build a foundation for my business that wasn’t just about hustling, but about growing with integrity and clarity.
Developing these habits helps you work smarter, lead better, and live more intentionally.
4. The 1-Page Marketing Plan by Allan Dib
Marketing always felt overwhelming to me—so many platforms, so many strategies, and never enough time. The 1-Page Marketing Plan made it simple. It broke things down in a way that made sense, and gave me a framework that actually got results. I finally understood how to speak to my ideal customer, how to map out a real sales funnel, and most importantly, how to make marketing something I could stick with.
You don’t need a degree in marketing—just a clear, focused plan that works.
The Feel-Good Office
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The Feel-Good Office 〰️
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Check out this blog series that is full of inspiration and recommendations to transform your workspace!
5. The 80/20 Principle by Richard Koch
This book was such a wake-up call. I realized that I was spending way too much time on tasks that didn’t actually move the needle. The 80/20 Principle helped me zoom out and look at my business differently. I started identifying what was truly driving revenue—and what I could let go of. Delegating and simplifying gave me the freedom to focus on the work that mattered most, both to me and to the bottom line.
Focusing on the vital few (instead of the trivial many) can completely transform your business and your time.
6. Exit Rich by Michelle Seiler Tucker & Sharon Lechter
When I started thinking about selling my business, I felt completely in the dark. I didn’t know what buyers looked for, or what I needed to prepare. Exit Rich gave me the roadmap I desperately needed. It helped me strengthen the backend of my business—things like systems, documentation, and recurring revenue—that not only made it sellable, but also made it easier to run. I was able to exit confidently, knowing my business was valuable and ready for the next owner.
Build your business like you’re going to sell it—even if you’re not… yet.
7. Stories That Stick by Kindra Hall
I always knew that connection was important, but I didn’t realize how much storytelling mattered until I read this book. It showed me how to weave real stories from my business—why I started, what I learned, what my customers experienced—into my marketing. And once I did, people responded. They emailed me saying, “I feel like you were talking to me.” That human connection translated into sales, but more importantly, into trust.
The right story can build relationships faster than any sales pitch ever could.
8. The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins & Sawyer Robbins
I came across this book when I was burning out—trying to be everything to everyone. The Let Them Theory was like a breath of fresh air. It reminded me that I didn’t need to control how others saw me or reacted to my decisions. I let go of people-pleasing and started showing up with more ease and clarity. As a business owner, this mindset helped me make clearer decisions and set better boundaries—without guilt.
Letting people be who they are frees you to be the leader (and human) you want to be.
9. Your Next Five Moves by Patrick Bet-David
This book helped me step out of the day-to-day grind and actually think like a CEO. I realized I wasn’t playing a strategic game—I was reacting to whatever was in front of me. Bet-David challenged me to start thinking in sequences: What do I really want next? What needs to happen first? It helped me plot a path forward, not just for the next month, but for the next phase of business and life.
Clear strategy is the difference between running a business and building a legacy.
10. Start With Why by Simon Sinek
In moments when I felt disconnected or uninspired, this book helped me reconnect with my original purpose. Start With Why reminded me that customers (and employees) don’t just buy what you sell—they buy into why you do it. When I got clear on my “why,” everything else started aligning—my messaging, my products, my partnerships. People could feel that it was authentic, and it drew the right audience in.
Leading with your 'why' creates loyalty, clarity, and momentum.
11. The Diary of a CEO by Steven Bartlett
I didn’t expect to love this book as much as I did. It wasn’t just about business—it was about the inner world of an entrepreneur. Bartlett’s honesty about failure, imposter syndrome, and ambition hit close to home. It made me feel less alone and more inspired to pursue both success and peace. His “33 Laws” were actionable, but what stuck with me was his belief that business growth and personal growth are deeply connected.
You can build a successful business and a meaningful life—they’re not mutually exclusive.
The right book at the right time can shift your entire mindset—and sometimes, your entire business. These books helped me think bigger, lead better, and simplify where I once overcomplicated. You don’t have to read them all at once. Pick the one that speaks to where you are right now. Let it challenge you, encourage you, and remind you that you're not alone on this journey.
Ready to grow your business with fresh insight? Pick one book and start today—your future self will thank you.You can grab any of the titles mentioned above directly from the links in this post.
