There is nothing greater than reading a good book, especially when it can provide you with the tools and skills to take your business to the next level. But there are millions of business, self-help, and career books out there, so how could you ever narrow it down and decide which one is most relevant to you? Well here’s a list of some of my faves that I think will make a big difference in your professional life.

Lean In

This Sheryl Sandberg book is a classic for women, as she redefines what it means to be a powerful, unafraid woman in business. She candidly discusses her rise to the top as Facebook’s COO and how women everywhere need to focus on their strengths and lean in to male-dominated workplaces. It’s basically about how women can do it all, making it a must-read if you’re looking to do the same.

Grit

If you haven’t already heard Angela Duckworth’s now-famous Ted Talk about grit, you should listen to it and check out her related book by the same name. She stresses that the secret to success is not raw talent or outstanding achievements, but a focused persistence (AKA grit). It’s all about learning to get back in the ring when you fall down, which is an essential skill if you want to make it in business and in life.

Start with Why

Another great book that coincides with a Ted Talk, Simon Sinek’s book studies uncovers what makes a good leader great. Starting with WHY, Sinek found that the best businesses are built on this concept, why certain things work and exist. It’s all about leading greatly, and it will leave you feeling motivated and inspired.

The Universe Has Your Back

One of Gabrielle Bernstein’s newest reads, this book is all about eliminating fear and the need to be in control in favor of being faithful in the universe and trusting fate instead. She teachers her readers how to seek happiness, security and a clear direction — learning to trust that the universe has your back. If you’re looking to take your mindfulness and faith to the next level, give this great book a shot.

Thrive

Arianna Huffington, the founder of The Huffington Post and Thrive Global, is no stranger to hard work and burnout. However, her book focuses on redefining the definition of success, one that includes a balance of career, relationships, and personal time. She is candid about her own struggles with being obsessed with her work and how she learned to find a more sane lifestyle. This is another must-read for anyone who is trying to balance it all. 

Get Over Your Damn Self

This book is written by a former corporate woman who changed her life completely when she became a network marketer. She’s all about women empowerment, teaching that freedom, flexibility, and finding your greater purpose are the keys to living a happy life. Her no-BS approach teaches others how to build profitable direct sales and network marketing businesses.

Girl Boss

Sophia Amoruso was a broke high school dropout who founded a $250-million-plus fashion retailer, Nasty Gal. She wrote Girl Boss to connect with other female outliers, who never fit in to typical girl stereotypes or typical CEO roles. To Amoruso, being successful isn’t about being the smartest or having the most money, but learning to trust your instincts and follow your gut. This book is for the anything-but-boring girl who is determined to make her unique mark in business.

Girl Code

Cara Alwill Leyba’s book is the ultimate book if you’re looking to figure out how to make it as a woman in business. She talks about how it’s essential that as women, we build confidence in ourselves and learn to support fellow women by eradicating jealousy and genuinely showing up for one another. It’s the ultimate roadmap for female entrepreneurial success. 

I find that when I’m inspired, I create my best work. I hope these books can help put you on a path to success, just like they did for me.

Love yourself - it’s the best love you will ever have.

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