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Article by: I.K Adusei

In 2024, I set a personal goal to read 35 books—and with 37 completed so far, the journey has been transformative. Each book has been more than just words on paper; they’ve been mentors, guides, and companions on my entrepreneurial path. Some taught me practical business strategies, like Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill, while others, like Deep Work by Cal Newport, reshaped how I approach focus and productivity.  

As I reflect on the impact reading has had on my life, I realize it mirrors the experiences of many great entrepreneurs. Leaders like Richard Branson and Elon Musk have long credited books as vital to their personal and business success. In this article, I’ll explore how reading has shaped not only my journey but also the lives of renowned entrepreneurs—and how it can be a powerful tool for anyone striving for excellence.

Many of the most successful entrepreneurs credit their reading habits for knowledge that traditional schooling didn’t provide. Entrepreneurs like Elon Musk famously taught themselves rocket science by reading books, while Richard Branson consistently cites reading as a source of unconventional wisdom. Books such as Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill and The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason have become timeless guides for building wealth and success through disciplined habits. Entrepreneurs use books as virtual mentors, drawing lessons from others’ experiences to avoid pitfalls and accelerate their journeys.

Reading also gives entrepreneurs access to ideas beyond their industries. Books like Atomic Habits by James Clear highlight how small, incremental changes can yield transformative results. Similarly, The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene equips readers with strategic thinking that applies across various fields. When Steve Jobs delved into philosophy and design books, he cultivated a sense of aesthetics that later became a hallmark of Apple’s products. Entrepreneurs know that innovation arises from exploring diverse sources of knowledge, not just business books. Exposure to different disciplines helps entrepreneurs connect seemingly unrelated ideas and innovate in ways others might overlook.

Cal Newport’s Deep Work and Ryan Holiday’s Ego Is the Enemy have reshaped how many business leaders approach productivity and personal growth. Great entrepreneurs understand that success requires mastering focus and resisting distractions. Bill Gates, known for his “Think Weeks,” retreats with a stack of books to reflect deeply on ideas and future strategies. The mental discipline cultivated through reading extends beyond business—it shapes how entrepreneurs manage their time, energy, and emotions, keeping them grounded in their long-term vision. Focused reading strengthens an entrepreneur’s ability to think clearly, make decisions effectively, and navigate challenges with resilience.

Biographies of entrepreneurs and thought leaders—like Maya Angelou’s Why the Caged Bird Sings or Jeffrey Archer’s Kane & Abel—offer more than just stories; they reveal the highs and lows of real-life journeys. When entrepreneurs read about others overcoming setbacks, it fuels their own resolve to persevere through difficulties. For many, reading is also a way to recharge mentally and emotionally. Robert Kiyosaki’s Rich Dad Poor Dad isn’t just a financial guide—it serves as a mindset shift, encouraging readers to rethink their approach to money and opportunities. Inspiration from books enables entrepreneurs to push through setbacks and maintain momentum on their journeys.

As someone who has read 37 books so far this year, I can personally attest to the transformative power of reading. Books like Deep Work and Atomic Habits have reshaped my approach to productivity, while Think and Grow Rich has reinforced the importance of goal-setting and persistence. Reading has not only expanded my understanding of business principles but also deepened my appreciation for the complexities of human behavior and motivation. Every book I’ve read has left an indelible mark—some teaching valuable lessons, others sparking new ideas, and all contributing to my personal and entrepreneurial growth. With just three more books to reach my 40th, I am reminded that every page turned is an opportunity to grow, learn, and achieve more.

Reading has been, and continues to be, a cornerstone in the lives of great entrepreneurs. It sharpens the mind, inspires new ideas, and offers guidance during challenging times. In a world of constant change, the wisdom gained from books provides an anchor—reminding us that success is not just about wealth but also about growth, curiosity, and resilience.  

Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business leader, let the pages of a book be your guide. As the stories of entrepreneurs show, success is not built overnight—it is shaped, nurtured, and inspired by the knowledge we choose to pursue.

The Author, I.K. Adusei, is a prolific writer of immensely intuitive books and articles. You can now order hard copies of his book How To Start Small: Financial Skills For Business Success on Amazon for it to be delivered to your doorstep or a selected pick-up location in any country or state.

Click here: Buy Paper Back Edition On Amazon