Get Inspired: 9 Powerful Memoirs by Successful Entrepreneurs
Book RaiderMemoirs: they're not just for ex-presidents and retired rock stars anymore! These days, it like every entrepreneur who's made their fortune is also penning their story for the world to read. But these books are more than simple vanity projects. They are treasure troves of perceptive insights and hindsight wisdom that could turn your fledgling business idea into the next big thing.
It's always thrilling to peek behind the curtain and see howans of industry began their journey to success. Laughing, crying, and cringing along with them through their trials, tribulations, and triumphs, we become the proverbial fly on the wall. These memoirs don’t just narrate their life story, they serve as an entrepreneurial bible, educating us with lessons you won't find in any business school classroom. So grab a cup of your favorite brew, get comfy in your reading nook, and let's dive into some powerful memoirs by successful entrepreneurs that promise to motivate, inspire and perhaps, make your entrepreneurial journey a tad less lonesome.
Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of Nike
by Phil Knight
Why Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of Nike is on this list: There's little that screams 'successful entrepreneur' quite like starting from selling sneakers from the back of your car and ending up with one of the most sportswear brands in history. You're looking at Phil Knight, the co-founder of Nike. book embodies the essence of transforming a simple idea into a business empire with perseverance.
Travelling across continents, Phil had an idea, the crazy notion that high-quality running shoes could be produced in Japan that could compete with established European brands. Shoe Dog takes you through the riveting journey of a startup, the first hires, the first sales, the moments of despair and the thrill of the eventual triumph. You'll see the birth of the swoosh, the launching of Nike's name and some of Nike's earliest endorsers like Steve Prefontaine and Michael Jordan. It's an underdog story, it's full of struggles, it's real, and best of all, it's inspiring.
What readers like: Readers enjoy Knight's clear, candid, and engaging narrative style. He has a knack for bringing people and places to life, presenting his experiences without any sugar coating. They like getting the insider's view on the creation of Nike and the buying trips to Japan, meetings with athletes, and clashes with competitors. Also, they appreciate the mixture of business strategy, history, and the success of an idea that isn't afraid to ruffle a few feathers along the way. Lastly, Phil's humor, humility, and humanity shine through in every chapter, making it an all-round enjoyable read.
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Start Something That Matters
by Blake Mycoskie
Why Start Something That Matters is on this list: Ever dreamed of making your mark on the world and wondered those successful entrepreneurs did it? Blake Mycoskie, founder of TOMS Shoes, just that and he's sharing his journey in this captivating memoir.
In 'Start Something That Matters', Blake takes you on his unconventional entrepreneurial journey - from a budding tennis player to the creator of a for-profit business designed around the principle of giving. Filled with priceless insights into the realities of building a successful business that not only turns a profit but also positively impacts the world, this memoir is a roadmap for anyone who has ever dreamt of changing the world through entrepreneurship.
What readers like: Readers particularly appreciate Blake's candidness about his ups and downs, his non-negotiable commitment to social responsibility, and his inspiring 'anything is possible' mindset. Plus, the practical advice peppered throughout the book makes it a lucrative and entertaining read. Combine that with an engaging storytelling style and you've got a memoir that's as addictive as your favorite TV series.
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Finding My Virginity: The New Autobiography
by Richard Branson
Why Finding My Virginity: The New Autobiography is on this list: Ever wanted to know how a dysic school kid hustled his way into becoming one of the most entrepreneurial minds of our time? Yeah, 'Finding My Virginity' offers some pretty neat insights.
This memoir isn't just about Branson's success with Virgin, but more about the blood, sweat and countless cups of tea, that went into making it a reality. The best part is, it's scribed with the kind of brutal honesty you'd expect from your mate at the pub, not a billionaire businessman. You'll find lots of plot twists, fun anecdotes and even some wisdom (if you're into that sort of thing).
What readers like: Readers like it because it's the unfiltered truth about entrepreneurship. No sugarcoating, no shiny embellishments, just the raw deal (challenges, triumphs) of building a world-renowned brand. And let's be honest - who doesn't like a good old rags-to-riches story?
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The Honest Life: Living Naturally and True to You
by Jessica Alba
Why The Honest Life: Living Naturally and True to You is on this list: This book fits perfectly into this entrepreneur-inspired list because it's penned by Jessica Alba, a wildly successful actress turned business maven. Not only does it detail her journey into entrepreneurship but also focuses on building her empire with integrity, staying true to oneself and maintaining ethical standards.
In 'The Honest Life', Alba shares her personal journey of discovery, showing readers how to create a healthy, natural and sustainable lifestyle, and more importantly, a successful business venture out of it. With her real, honest, and yet down-to-earth narrative, she inspire readers to put their ideas into action and embrace the entrepreneur spirit.
What readers like: Readers particularly love the authenticity and realness of Jessica's narrative. They've appreciated the practical tips shared, with many expressing how they've been able to apply them in their daily lives and businesses. It's not your textbook-style business guide, it's a relatable, digestible piece of inspiration readers can carry with them.
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From the Ground Up: A Journey to Reimagine the Promise of America
by Howard Schultz
Why From the Ground Up: A Journey to Reimagine the Promise of America is on this list: From a guy who came from humble beginnings to the top of a coffee empire, there are oceans of entrepreneurial knowledge and inspiration to soak up. This book serves as an answer to those who believe that business and benevol don’t mix.
This is the story of the man at the helm of Starbucks, who shaped it into the brand it is today while also instilling it with strong ethics and a commitment to social responsibility. The book traverses through the steps Howard took from a lower-income neighborhood in Brooklyn to the world of boardrooms and billion-dollar businesses. It's a powerful testament reimagining the possibilities of America and harnessing the potential for good within us all.
What readers like: Readers rave about how this isn't just a rah-rah business memoir. It's a raw, heartfelt journey that's peppered with wisdom about building a business with soul. They appreciate learning about the intersection of entrepreneurship and societal change, and they soak up the doses of grit, passion, and hard work that Schultz pours into every page. And let's not forget the part where he essentially turns water into coffee.
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Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, the Quest for a Fantastic
by Ashlee Vance
Why Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, the Quest for a Fantastic is on this list:
This fascinating biography offers an inside look into the life work of Elon Musk, one of the most extraordinary entrepreneurs of this era. It discusses his ambitious vision for the future, which include reinventing both on Earth and in space, creating hyperloops, and facilitating human life on Mars.
What readers like: Readers love this book for its candid portrayal of Elon Musk's relentless determination and tenacity. It offers valuable insights into how Musk's mind works, making it a gripping read for aspiring entrepreneurs and fans of innovative tech. Plus, it's like a real-life Tony Stark tale, minus the suits.
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Andrew Carnegie: An Autobiography
by Andrew Carnegie
Why Andrew Carnegie: An Autobiography is on this list: This autobiographical piece of work gives the readers an unparalleled insight into the life of Andrew Carnegie. This is a memoir which covers the rags-to-riches journey of a man who became a magnate in the steel industry and an important philanthropist. Given his entrepreneur background and huge success, it makes a great addition to this list.
In this book, you'll get to follow Carnegie's journey from his destitute origins in Scotland to his meteoric rise in the American steel industry. Carnegie shares his path to success and the crucial insights he gained along the way. Most crucially, you'll gain an understanding of his belief in the moral duty of the wealthy to give back to society—a philosophy which led him to donate the majority of his fortune.
What readers like: Readers appreciate the authentic voice, the candid recollection of his life events, and the insight into his mindset which contributed significantly to his success. The readers also found it interesting how his philanthropic views add a touching layer to his persona, showing that being a successful entrepreneur is not just about getting rich, but also about giving back.
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Steve Jobs
by Walter Isaacson
Why Steve Jobs is on this list:
This book is a deep-dive into the complexities of Steve Jobs' life, both professionally and personally. Chronicling journey from a mischief-making boy to the co-founder of Apple, it offers an intimate look into his pursuit of perfection, flair for design, and relentless drive for success. Isaacson's book doesn't shy away from Jobs' eccentricities and faults but rather embraces them, painting a more complete picture of the man behind the tech empire.
What readers like: Readers have especially appreciated Isaacson's unbiased narration, making the journey through Jobs' life feel real and authentic. They have touted it as an inspiring tale of creativity, innovation, and drive, as it narrates the life of an entrepreneur who significantly shaped the world of technology.
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#GIRLBOSS
by Sophia Amoruso
Why #GIRLBOSS is on this list: From rags to the ranks of a thriving multi-million dollar company, Sophia Amoruso’s journey is one of grit, hustle and an unwavering entrepreneurial spirit. This memoir embodies the very definition of success behind an entrepreneur.
#GIRLBOSS is more than just a memoir; it's a full-on manifesto for rebellion and individuality. It tells the story of how Sophia Amoruso transformed from being a disenchanted, directionless rebel into the successful founder of Nasty Gal, a thriving online vintage retail store. Peppered with her no-holds-barred advice and experiences, this book will make you laugh, think and inspire you to chase your dream like a boss.
What readers like: Readers enjoy Sophia's raw, unfiltered style and her practical wisdom on entrepreneurship. They also adore her refreshing honesty about her journey, which isn’t sugarcoated or glammed up. Book lovers appreciate the motivation this book sends out, resonating especially with women and blooming entrepreneurs hoping to build something of their own.
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