Book tips for business, a successful career and personal growth
I regularly get emails and messages on Facebook & Co. asking me for book tips. And I love these questions, because I love books. I read as often as I can, because a book gives me the opportunity to slip into the minds of the world's smartest people and engage with their ideas, thoughts and views.
From every book I read - no matter how trivial - I take away some idea that I incorporate into my everyday life. But there are also books that really touch me deeply and make me think about some things a little longer and more intensively. I have summarized these books in a list.
So here they are, my book tips with the 10 books that have changed my life.
And if you like these ten book tips, then take a look at my list of the 100 best business books of all time to.
1) Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand
Probably no other book has influenced me as much as this novel. This is probably because the main characters Dagny Taggart, Hank Rearden and John Galt appeal to my core values such as integrity, personal responsibility and individuality. The book probably reflects my personal philosophy of life like no other. But the actual plot of the novel also has everything you need for a long-lasting reading experience: Love, suspense and lots of interesting characters. If possible, be sure to read the original English version.
Here is the link to the book: Atlas Shrugged
2) The Magic Mountain by Thomas Mann
In second place is another novel, namely The Magic Mountain by Thomas Mann. The plot itself is not particularly exciting. The young Hans Castorp visits his cousin Joachim Ziemßen in a spa clinic in Davos. The planned 3 weeks turn into 7 years in the end. What fascinates me so much about this story are the main characters, the artful description of the individual developments and the many philosophical conversations. A true masterpiece that captivates me every time.
Here is the link to the book: The Magic Mountain
3) The 4-hour week by Timothy Ferriss
After reading it, I asked myself the question for the first time: “What if...?” After that, nothing was the same. The idea of this book is as ingenious as it is simple. Lead a life according to your expectations and ideas. And then build a business that supports this lifestyle. The 4 Hour Week is full of brilliant ideas, inspiration and suggestions for anyone who expects more from life than the daily 9 to 5 job. A clear recommendation to read.
Here is the link to the book: The 4-hour week
4) Money, gold and god players by Roland Baader
Roland Baader was one of the greatest free thinkers of our time and managed like no other to explain economic relationships in normal everyday language. I have actually read all of his books, but for me this is his most complete work. However, you are advised to be careful, as reading it could dramatically change your views on what is supposedly normal.
Here is the link to the book: Money, gold and god players
5) The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand
And yet another book by Ayn Rand, this time the story of architect Howard Roark, who manages to turn his passion into a profession and fight his way through all the difficulties. Once again, it is a plea for personal integrity and a polemic against egalitarianism. A mercilessly good book, full of inspiration, critical thinking and encouraging messages.
Here is the link to the book: The Fountainhead
6) Total Recall - The true story of my life by Arnold Schwarzenegger
Anyone who knows me knows that I'm a big fan of Arnold Schwarzenegger am. Because the life story of the former Mr. Universe, Terminator and Governor of California is more than impressive. In many personal stories, you get to know Arnold Schwarzenegger better as a person and learn what is possible with courage, commitment and great visions. This book is pure motivation in print.
Here is the link to the book: Total Recall
7) The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari by Robin Sharma
In this business fable, Robin Sharma tells the story of a successful businessman who, at the height of his career, realizes what really matters in life. Very inspiring, infectious and a clear recommendation for anyone looking for more meaning in life.
Here is the link to the book: The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari
8) #AskGaryVee by Gary Vaynerchuk
These book tips would be incomplete without this work by Gary Vee. For me, it's the best business book I've read (or listened to, as I highly recommend the audio version, read by Gary himself and with lots of additional commentary) in recent years. A perfect read for any entrepreneur or manager who wants to make a difference.
Here is the link to the book: #AskGaryVee
9) The damn 20th century - Memories and reflections of a politically incorrect person by Gerard Radnitzky
On the one hand, this book tells the life story of Gerard Radnitzky, a freethinker whom I hold in high esteem. The many anecdotes and stories alone make the book well worth reading. The author also regularly takes a look at the wider context at the beginning and middle of the 20th century and reports from the perspective of a contemporary witness. Uncomfortable opinions, visionary ideas and a common thread that runs through the entire book: A call for freedom.
Here is the link to the book: The damn 20th century
10) Think Big Act Bigger by Jeffrey Hayzlett
Jeffrey Hayzlett not only wrote the foreword to my book “Think it. Do it Change it.” but he's also a pound-for-pound guy. He is a prime time TV host, chairman of the C-Suite Network and a cowboy at heart. His latest book is, for me, his best. And what better motto could there be: Think big. But act even bigger!
Here is the link to the book: Think Big Act Bigger
What do you like to read?
What are your favorite books? Write me (and my readers) your book tips in the comment field. I look forward to many inspiring suggestions...
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