The 26 Best Books for Creative Business Owners
Hey there, fellow creative entrepreneurs! If you're anything like me, you have a burning passion for your craft and a desire to turn it into a thriving business. But let's be honest: launching and sustaining a successful venture isn't always a walk in the park. That's why I've curated a list of the best books for creative business owners like you and me. These gems aren't just any old business books – they're tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities we face as creative souls navigating the world of entrepreneurship.
Table of Contents
The Best Books for Creative Business Thinking
1. “Big Magic” by Elizabeth Gilbert
If you're stuck in a creative rut or battling self-doubt, “Big Magic” is the book for you. Elizabeth Gilbert's infectious enthusiasm and wise insights will remind you why you fell in love with your craft in the first place. She explores the nature of creativity, shares personal anecdotes, and encourages readers to embrace their curiosity and live a life fueled by passion.
- Hardcover
- Gilbert, Elizabeth (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 304 Pages – 09/27/2016 (Publication Date) – Riverhead Books (Publisher)
2. “Steal Like an Artist” by Austin Kleon
Don't let the title fool you – this book isn't about plagiarism. Instead, Austin Kleon offers a fresh perspective on creativity, urging us to embrace our influences, experiment fearlessly, and cultivate a unique voice. With its visual appeal and bite-sized wisdom, “Steal Like an Artist” is a must-read for anyone seeking to unlock their creative potential.
- By artist and writer Austin Kleon
- A collection of positive messages and exercises to realize your artistic side
- A New York Times Best-seller
- 10 Things nobody told you about being creative!
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3. “Good to Great” by Jim Collins
“Good to Great” is a timeless classic that explores the characteristics and practices of truly great companies. Jim Collins' research-backed insights will help you cultivate a disciplined culture, assemble the right team, and make the crucial decisions that can take your creative business from good to great.
- Great product!
- Hardcover Book
- Collins, Jim (Author)
- English (Subtitle)
- English (Publication Language)
4. “Radical Candor” by Kim Scott
As a creative business owner, you must balance caring for your team and challenging them to achieve their full potential. “Radical Candor” by Kim Scott provides a framework for cultivating a culture of honest feedback and open communication, essential for building a high-performing team.
- Hardcover Book
- Scott, Kim (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 336 Pages – 10/01/2019 (Publication Date) – St. Martin's Press (Publisher)
Essential Books for Creative Entrepreneurs
5. “The Lean Startup” by Eric Ries
Innovation and creativity are essential but mean nothing without a solid business foundation. That's where “The Lean Startup” comes in. Eric Ries's methodology encourages rapid iteration, customer feedback, and a data-driven approach to building a sustainable business. This book will teach you how to validate your ideas, minimise waste, and pivot when necessary.
- Amazon Kindle Edition
- Ries, Eric (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 334 Pages – 09/13/2011 (Publication Date) – Crown Currency (Publisher)
6. “The E-Myth Revisited” by Michael E. Gerber
As creative entrepreneurs, it's easy to get caught up in the day-to-day operations of our businesses, neglecting the strategic planning and systems that ensure long-term success. “The E-Myth Revisited” is a game-changer, showing you how to work on your business, not just in it. Gerber's insights will help you build a company that can thrive without your constant presence.
- HarperCollins
- Must try for a book lover
- Compact for travelling
- Gerber, Michael E. (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
7. “The Innovator's Solution” by Clayton M. Christensen and Michael E. Raynor
Innovation is critical to staying ahead of the curve in the ever-changing business world. “The Innovator's Solution” offers a practical approach to creating and sustaining successful innovations, helping you identify untapped market opportunities and develop products or services that disrupt the status quo.
- Hardcover Book
- Christensen, Clayton M. (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 320 Pages – 11/19/2013 (Publication Date) – Harvard Business Review Press (Publisher)
Books to Inspire and Guide
8. “The $100 Startup” by Chris Guillebeau
If you're starting a business on a shoestring budget or looking to launch a side hustle, “The $100 Startup” is a must-read. Chris Guillebeau shares inspiring stories of entrepreneurs who've built successful businesses with little or no capital. His practical advice and case studies will show you that it's possible to turn your passion into profit, even with limited resources.
- Chris Guillebeau (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 09/21/2023 (Publication Date) – Pan/Virgin Books Ltd (Publisher)
9. “The Lean CEO” by Jacob Stoller
Being a creative business owner can feel like a rollercoaster ride, with exhilarating highs and terrifying lows. “The Lean CEO” is a powerful guide for navigating entrepreneurship's emotional and psychological challenges. Jacob Stoller's insights will help you cultivate resilience, manage stress, and maintain a positive mindset, even in adversity.
- Hardcover Book
- Stoller, Jacob (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 352 Pages – 03/31/2015 (Publication Date) – McGraw Hill (Publisher)
Books to Unlock Your Potential
10. “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen R. Covey
As a creative business owner, your personal growth and leadership skills are intimately tied to your professional success. “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” is a timeless classic that will help you develop the character, mindset, and principles essential for effective leadership. Covey's teachings will empower you to take control of your life, build strong relationships, and lead with purpose.
- Covey, Stephen R. (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 464 Pages – 05/19/2020 (Publication Date) – Simon & Schuster (Publisher)
11. “Daring Greatly” by Brené Brown
Vulnerability is often seen as a weakness, but Brené Brown's groundbreaking work shows it's a strength. “Daring Greatly” explores the power of vulnerability in leadership, relationships, and personal growth. Brown's warm and engaging writing style will inspire you to embrace your authentic self, confront your fears, and show up wholeheartedly in your business and life.
- Brown, Brené (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 320 Pages – 04/07/2015 (Publication Date) – Avery (Publisher)
12. “The War of Art” by Steven Pressfield
As a creative entrepreneur, you'll face resistance and self-doubt daily. “The War of Art” by Steven Pressfield will help you overcome these internal battles, push past procrastination, and tap into your most profound creative potential.
- Profoundly inspiring guide to overcoming
- Creative blocks of every kind.
- It ensures you get the best usage for a longer period
- Pressfield, Steven (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
13. “Mindset” by Carol Dweck
Your mindset can make or break your success as a creative business owner. “Mindset” by Carol Dweck explores the power of having a growth mindset – the belief that your abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work. This book will help you cultivate a resilient and adaptable mindset, which is essential for navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship.
- Dweck, Dr Carol (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 320 Pages – 01/12/2017 (Publication Date) – DO NOT USE (Publisher)
Books to Create a Positive Environment
14. “Delivering Happiness” by Tony Hsieh
As a creative entrepreneur, you're not just building a business but creating a culture. “Delivering Happiness” is Tony Hsieh's account of how he built Zappos into a billion-dollar company by prioritising happiness and creating a positive work environment. His insights will inspire you to cultivate a company culture that attracts top talent, fosters creativity, and delivers exceptional customer experiences.
- Hsieh, Tony (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 272 Pages – 03/19/2013 (Publication Date) – Grand Central Publishing (Publisher)
15. “The Culture Code” by Daniel Coyle
“The Culture Code” is essential for building a high-performing team and a thriving business culture. Daniel Coyle explores the characteristics of successful groups, from the Navy SEALs to Pixar Animation Studios, and distils their secrets into practical strategies. Whether you're a solopreneur or leading a team, this book will teach you how to create an environment that nurtures creativity, collaboration, and shared success.
- Hardcover Book
- Coyle, Daniel (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 304 Pages – 01/30/2018 (Publication Date) – Bantam (Publisher)
16. “The Productivity Project” by Chris Bailey
Time is a precious commodity for any busy business owner. “The Productivity Project” offers practical strategies and techniques to help you optimise your time, increase your focus, and get more done in less time. With Chris Bailey's insights, you'll learn to prioritise tasks, eliminate distractions, and maximise productivity.
- Bailey, Chris (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 304 Pages – 08/29/2017 (Publication Date) – Crown Currency (Publisher)
17. “Deep Work” by Cal Newport
Focusing intensely on essential tasks is crucial for success in a world of constant distractions and interruptions. “Deep Work” by Cal Newport explores the value of concentration and provides strategies for cultivating a distraction-free environment, allowing you to achieve your most meaningful and challenging work.
- Amazon Kindle Edition
- Newport, Cal (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 287 Pages – 01/05/2016 (Publication Date) – Grand Central Publishing (Publisher)
Books to Amplify Your Voice
18. “This Is Marketing” by Seth Godin
As a creative business owner, you're not just selling a product or service – you're telling a story and building a brand. “This Is Marketing” by Seth Godin is a comprehensive guide to modern marketing, focused on connecting with your audience, understanding their needs, and creating remarkable experiences. Godin's unconventional wisdom will help you craft a compelling narrative, build a loyal following, and stand out in a crowded marketplace.
- Hardcover Book
- Godin, Seth (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 288 Pages – 11/13/2018 (Publication Date) – Portfolio (Publisher)
19. “Building a StoryBrand” by Donald Miller
In today's noisy world, communicating your brand's message clearly and compellingly is more critical than ever. “Building a StoryBrand” by Donald Miller offers a unique framework for crafting a brand narrative that resonates with your target audience. Miller's storytelling principles will help you simplify your messaging, clarify your value proposition, and create a brand that captures the hearts and minds of your customers.
- Hardcover Book
- Miller, Donald (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 240 Pages – 10/10/2017 (Publication Date) – HarperCollins Leadership (Publisher)
20. “The 22 Immutable Laws of Branding” by Al Ries and Laura Ries
Branding is crucial for any business, especially in the creative realm. “The 22 Immutable Laws of Branding” offers a comprehensive guide to building a strong, memorable brand that sets you apart from the competition. From the law of focus to the law of publicity, this book covers the essential principles every creative business owner should know.
- Ries, Al (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 272 Pages – 09/01/2002 (Publication Date) – Harper Business (Publisher)
Books to Help You Thrive Financially
21. “Profit First” by Mike Michalowicz
As a creative business owner, financial well-being is crucial to long-term success. “Profit First” offers a practical approach to managing finances, prioritising profitability, and creating a sustainable business model. Mike Michalowicz's counterintuitive philosophy will help you break free from the traditional accounting mindset and build a financially healthy company that supports your creative pursuits.
- Hardcover Book
- Michalowicz, Mike (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 224 Pages – 02/21/2017 (Publication Date) – Portfolio (Publisher)
22. “I Will Teach You to Be Rich” by Ramit Sethi
Finances can be a source of stress and uncertainty for many entrepreneurs. “I Will Teach You to Be Rich” by Ramit Sethi is a comprehensive guide to personal finance that will help you gain control of your money, eliminate debt, and invest wisely. Sethi's no-nonsense advice and easy-to-follow systems will provide the financial stability and confidence you need to focus on growing your creative business.
- It can be a gift option
- Comes with secure packaging
- Helpful in various ways
- Sethi, Ramit (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
Books to Nourish Your Mind, Body, and Soul
24. “Essentialism” by Greg McKeown
As creative entrepreneurs, our time and energy are precious resources. “Essentialism” by Greg McKeown is a powerful guide to living a focused and purposeful life. McKeown's teachings will help you identify your highest priorities, eliminate distractions, and cultivate the discipline to pursue only the most essential goals and activities. By embracing essentialism, you'll be able to create space for your creative work, nurture your well-being, and achieve a sense of balance in your busy life.
- McKeown, Greg (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 288 Pages – 12/29/2020 (Publication Date) – Crown Currency (Publisher)
25. “The Lean Law Firm” by Larry Port
You'll inevitably encounter legal issues and challenges as a creative business owner. “The Lean Law Firm” provides a comprehensive guide to navigating the legal landscape, from protecting your intellectual property to drafting contracts and managing disputes. Larry Port's insights will help you proactively address legal matters and minimise the risks associated with running a business.
- Audible Audiobook
- Larry Port (Author) – Eric Deuser (Narrator)
- English (Publication Language)
- 12/16/2020 (Publication Date) – Larry Port and Dave Maxfield (Publisher)
26. “Conscious Capitalism” by John Mackey and Raj Sisodia
In today's socially conscious world, running your business with ethics and purpose is essential. “Conscious Capitalism” offers a compelling case for building a company that prioritises the well-being of all stakeholders – employees, customers, suppliers, and the community. This book will inspire you to create a positive impact while pursuing financial success.
- Mackey, John (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 368 Pages – 01/07/2014 (Publication Date) – Harvard Business Review Press (Publisher)
Conclusion: Ignite Your Entrepreneurial Spirit
There you have it, my fellow creative entrepreneurs! These books are a treasure trove of wisdom, inspiration, and practical advice to help you ignite your entrepreneurial spirit and build a thriving business. Remember, business success isn't just about having a great idea or talent – it's about cultivating the right mindset, developing essential skills, and embracing lifelong learning and growth. So, pick up a few of these gems, dive in, and let the knowledge and insights within propel you forward on your entrepreneurial path.
FAQs
Can I read these books in any order, or is there a recommended sequence?
There's no set order to read these books – it ultimately depends on your goals and interests. If you're just starting, you might find it helpful to begin with books that focus on creativity and inspiration, like “Big Magic” or “Steal Like an Artist.” You could move on to books covering business fundamentals, such as “The Lean Startup” and “The E-Myth Revisited.” And as your business grows, you can delve into books on leadership, culture, marketing, and finance.
Are these books only suitable for creative businesses, or can they be applied to other types of businesses as well?
While these books are geared towards creative entrepreneurs, their lessons and principles can be applied to various businesses. The core concepts of innovation, leadership, culture-building, and financial management are universal. However, the examples and case studies may resonate more strongly with those in creative fields.
Can I benefit from these books if I'm just starting out or if my business is still small?
Absolutely! Many of these books are particularly relevant for entrepreneurs in the early stages of their journey. Books like “The $100 Startup” and “The Lean Startup” are designed to help you launch and grow a business with limited resources. Even if your business is still small, the lessons in these books will help you build a solid foundation and develop the mindset and skills needed for long-term success.
Are there any other resources or tools you'd recommend besides these books?
Definitely! While books are a fantastic starting point, many other valuable resources are available to creative entrepreneurs. Join online communities, attend local meetups or conferences, and seek mentors or coaches with experience in your field. Additionally, podcasts, webinars, and online courses can be excellent sources of information and inspiration.
What if I only have a little time to read? Are there any other ways to consume this information?
As a busy entrepreneur, time can be a precious commodity. Fortunately, many of these books are available in audiobook format, which can be an excellent option for those on the go. You can listen to them while commuting, exercising, or even working on creative projects that allow multitasking. Additionally, some authors offer condensed versions of their books, such as summaries or workbooks, which can help you quickly grasp the key concepts and put them into practice.
Last update on 2024-04-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
