Top 10 Books That Shaped My Journey to Becoming a Successful Home-Based Entrepreneur
Starting a business doesn’t require a fancy degree or years in business school. What you really need is hunger for knowledge, curiosity, and the courage to take action. I know this because I never had formal business education myself—but books shaped me into the entrepreneur I am today.
Over the years, I’ve read hundreds of business books, and I can confidently say that these 10 books are the best place to start if you’re new to entrepreneurship. They cover the essentials—mindset, strategy, leadership, and growth—so you can build a strong foundation without feeling overwhelmed.
If you’re a Filipina with big dreams, these books will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to start and grow a successful business. No MBA required—just your passion, grit, and an open mind. Let’s dive in!
Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead
by Sheryl Sandberg
What you will learn from this book: Sheryl Sandberg, COO of Facebook, addresses the challenges women face in the workplace and offers insights into achieving leadership roles. She emphasizes the importance of women asserting themselves and "leaning in" to their careers.
The Lean Startup: How Today's Entrepreneurs Use Continuous Innovation to Create Radically Successful Businesses
by Eric Ries
What you will learn from this book: Eric Ries introduces the Lean Startup methodology, focusing on creating minimal viable products, testing hypotheses, and iterating based on customer feedback. This approach helps entrepreneurs build sustainable businesses efficiently.
Zero to One: Notes on Startups, or How to Build the Future
by Peter Thiel with Blake Masters
What you will learn from this book: Peter Thiel, co-founder of PayPal, provides a fresh perspective on innovation and creating unique businesses. He emphasizes building companies that create new things, moving from 'zero to one,' and discusses the importance of monopoly in business success.
The $100 Startup: Reinvent the Way You Make a Living, Do What You Love, and Create a New Future
by Chris Guillebeau
What you will learn from this book: Chris Guillebeau shares stories of individuals who have built successful businesses with modest investments. He provides a roadmap for turning passions into profits without significant capital, making it accessible for aspiring entrepreneurs.
You Are a Badass at Making Money: Master the Mindset of Wealth
by Jen Sincero
What you will learn from this book: Jen Sincero offers a powerful guide to transforming your relationship with money. Through personal anecdotes and practical tips, she helps readers break through financial limitations and achieve their monetary goals, making it particularly valuable for women entrepreneurs.
The Confidence Code: The Science and Art of Self-Assurance – What Women Should Know
by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman
What you will learn from this book: Katty Kay and Claire Shipman explore the science behind confidence and its impact on women's success in the workplace. They provide insights into understanding and enhancing self-assurance, addressing the confidence gap between genders.
It's About Damn Time: How to Turn Being Underestimated into Your Greatest Advantage
by Arlan Hamilton with Rachel L. Nelson
What you will learn from this book: Arlan Hamilton shares her journey from homelessness to becoming a successful venture capitalist. She offers insights into overcoming adversity, embracing uniqueness, and turning disadvantages into advantages, inspiring entrepreneurs to defy the odds.
Feminine Capital: Unlocking the Power of Women Entrepreneurs
by Barbara Orser and Catherine Elliott
What you will learn from this book: This book explores how women's entrepreneurship is evolving and challenges traditional stereotypes. It provides insights into leveraging 'feminine capital' to create successful ventures.
Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear
by Elizabeth Gilbert
What you will learn from this book: Elizabeth Gilbert explores the nature of creativity, encouraging readers to embrace their creative passions and overcome fears. It's an inspiring read for entrepreneurs looking to infuse creativity into their ventures.
Girl Code: Unlocking the Secrets to Success, Sanity, and Happiness for the Female Entrepreneur
by Cara Alwill Leyba
What you will learn from this book: Cara Alwill Leyba emphasizes the importance of women supporting women in business. She shares insights on building confidence, eliminating jealousy, and creating a community of empowered female entrepreneurs.
