Ok, so these books are nothing new. In fact, they are worldwide bestsellers. But if you’ve never heard of them before, let me share with you (please note in particular order) why they have played a significant role in my career – and how I think they relate to budding businesspeople like me.
Step 1: Understand what the journey to success really looks likeLosing My Virginity by Richard Branson Being an entrepreneur might sound glamorous, but it takes blood, sweat and tears – over a long period of time. There is no such thing as an overnight success story. That’s what I love about this book. It’s lengthy but demonstrates the serious ups and down of bringing a vision to life, and the crazy risks Richard Branson was willing to take to rise to the top. |  |
Step 2: Start and develop your business with the right mindsetThe E-Myth Revisited by Michael Gerber Most people start a business because they love cooking, or teaching, or writing… But the reality is that successful businesses are not just about cooking, teaching or writing – they require administration, operations, managing people, satisfying stakeholders, generating profit and completing taxation paperwork. This book stresses the importance of working ‘on’ your business (rather than ‘in’ your business) in order to survive. |  |
Step 3: Ensure your life doesn’t turn into hellThe 4-Hour Work Week by Timothy Ferriss You’ve made it. Your business is growing at a rapid pace – but you’re about to burn out. Thankfully, this book shows you how to improve productivity and lifestyle. From reducing time spent on email to delegating more effectively, you’ll walk away knowing how to get more hours in the day without sacrificing sleep. |  |
Step 4: Learn how to play the gameNice Girls Still Don’t Get The Corner Office by Lois P Frankel So this book might not as useful to male readers, but I cannot emphasise the difference reading it has made to my confidence as a businesswoman. Cover to cover it is packed with tips and tricks that help women further their careers – particularly in relation to working with men. |  |
Step 5: Embrace opportunity, gratitude and acceptanceThe Alchemist by Paulo Coelho Amongst all the chaos, don’t forget to be open-minded, grateful and reflective of what you’ve achieved. Although not a business book, The Alchemist tells the beautiful story of a young man’s journey overcoming obstacles in search of hidden treasure. The moral is that success is not linear – and sometimes what you’re looking for isn’t always where you think it is. |  |
Till next time!
Best wishes, Natalie and the Avion team.
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