28 MUST HAVE BOOKS

Learning is an ongoing process in the world of small business owners. Yes, there are many ways to learn, however, I am a great believer in owning great books. These are books which you should read, underline important sentences in, and write your thought in the margins.

I have built a collection of over 200 business books in the process of selecting my top 28 which I keep in a bookcase over my desk. Because change is the only constant in our business lives today, there will also be changes in my top 28 list but, there should always be only a total of 28 in your main reference library.

This is not a challenge but a good business practice. I will introduce new books which I highly recommend for your top 28. I will share a little about the content and then ask that you purchase the book in the next few days. The goal is to have you carve out 30 minutes of your day and allocate it to reading. Once again we are in the “creating good habits” business. Somewhere in your 24 hour day there are minutes which can be used to reach the 30 minutes recommended reading time.

A book should be read within a two to three week period. When completed, it should be placed in an easily accessible place in your office. I know you will start referring to them as you grow your business.

Sharing your thoughts on a book is a good way to assimilate the information. Reach out to another BizQuack member and ask their opinion on the book or start a new post in the Member Forum.

The first book I will recommend is The One Thing  by Gary Keller. The inside flap outlines the benefits the book delivers:

• Cut through the clutter
• Achieve better results in less time
• Overcome the overwhelmed feeling
• Revive your energy
• Stay on track

This book is easy to read and makes a lot of sense. You will be challenged and renewed. I have referenced material from this book in many of my classes and blogs.

BizQuack has as its purpose to help every small business become profitable and to build a sustainable firm. The tools are here, but you have to use them. I welcome your thoughts on this first selection. Please e-mail me at: nick@strategicduck.com.

Reading is a key feature in the life of every single successful person I have ever met.  Mario Batali