If you want to start a business or you've been an entrepreneur for 50 odd years, the dynamics of the business world are ever-changing. it's hard to know the things you don't know you need to know. You need those rights words of wisdom to guide you through your entrepreneurial journey.

 

Unfortunately, learning how to start and build a business by trial and error can be really expensive -- so let's make sure you're as prepared as possible.

 

Consider reading the following great books as an investment, one that will pay off for years and years to come:

 

- High-Performance Habits: How Extraordinary People Become That Way, by Brendon Burchard

When you start a business, you are your business. Some people succeed more quickly than others and maintain that success over the course of decades. How?

Brendon has the answers to that question.

 

- The Innovator's Dilemma, by Clayton Christensen

The classic book on innovation, describing how innovation takes place, why market leaders often fail to ride the next wave of innovation in their industries... and how entrepreneurs can take advantage.

Even if the "market leader" is just the mom-and-pop shop down the street that you hope to supplant.

 

- Setting the Table: The Transforming Power of Hospitality in Business, by Danny Meyer

While you may not decide to open a restaurant, lessons from the founder of Shake Shack (and seemingly dozens of other restaurants, catering businesses, etc) can be applied to any business.

The better you know your customers, the better you can serve them. The same applies to your employees, your suppliers, your partners... everyone around you is a "customer."

 

- Simple Numbers, Straight Talk, Big Profits! by Greg Crabtree

If you own a small business, numbers must be your friend. (Don't say you'll leave that stuff to someone else; the more you understand the financial realities of your business, the better decisions you can make. Every successful entrepreneur I know can talk numbers with the best of them.)

Hyperbolic title aside, Simple Numbers provides a straightforward look at the money side of starting and building a business.

And making that business a profitable business -- because otherwise, a business is just an expensive hobby.

 

- The Millionaire Masterplan by Roger James Hamilton

A GPS for financial success, MMP reveals the 9 levels of wealth and how to navigate your way to the very top. Whether you are seeking to improve your personal finances, grow your earnings, start your first business, or expand your investments, Roger gives you the specific steps at every level to follow your natural path.

 

Take the MMP Test today: http://bit.ly/MMPTest_

 

Let us know about your favorite Entrepreneur reads in the comments below.