Founderology Forum

The Founder’s bookshelf: Why these 11 classics are game-changers

These aren't just great reads; they are essential blueprints for success.

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February 18, 2025 by Kathleen Wood — Founder, K. Wood Partners

Starting and growing a business is one of the most demanding and rewarding journeys a person can embark on. It requires vision, strategy, resilience, and continuous learning and growth. As Founders, we don't have the luxury of trial and error for every lesson — sometimes, the smartest move is learning from those who have already paved the way.

That's why I've selected this particular list of essential books for Founders. These aren't just great reads — they are essential blueprints for success. They challenge conventional thinking, provide real-world strategies, and most importantly, equip Founders with the mindset needed to scale and sustain growth. They are classics because they have stood the test of time, economies, and marketplaces and are still relevant today!

Mindset is Everything

The first battle of entrepreneurship isn't fought in the market —it's fought in the mind. Books like "Think and Grow Rich" and "The Magic of Thinking Big" reinforce one critical truth: Our beliefs shape our outcomes. If you can't see the possibility of massive success, you'll never take the risks required to achieve it. Founders must train their minds to think beyond limits, beyond obstacles and into opportunity.

Mastering leadership and influence

A business is only as strong as its leader. Whether you're rallying a team, winning investors, or growing a customer base, influence is key. Books like How to Win Friends & Influence People and Start with Why demonstrate that leadership isn't about authority—it's about connection. The most successful Founders don't just build businesses; they inspire movements.

Strategy over struggle

Too many Founders waste time fighting battles they don't need to fight. Instead of competing for scraps, why not create a category of your own? Blue Ocean Strategy challenges founders to rethink competition and carve out uncontested market space. The Art of War applies timeless strategic wisdom to business, showing that victory often comes from choosing the right fights—or avoiding them altogether.

Money is a tool, not a mystery

Understanding money isn't just for investors — it's a skill every Founder must master. "Rich Dad Poor Dad" and "The Richest Man in Babylon" break down financial literacy in a way that shifts your perspective on wealth creation. If you want to grow your business, you need to understand how to leverage capital, avoid financial pitfalls, and turn profits into long-term assets.

Build a scalable business, not a job

Many Founders fall into the trap of building a business that can't survive without them. "The E-Myth Revisited" is one of the most important reads for Founders because it explains why working on your business, rather than in it, is critical for sustainable growth. If you don't create systems and delegate, you'll never truly scale.

The hard truth about entrepreneurship

Not every business book tells you what you want to hear—some tell you what you need to hear. "The Hard Thing About Hard Things" is one of those books. It doesn't sugarcoat the realities of entrepreneurship. Instead, it prepares Founders for the tough calls, the setbacks, and the moments when quitting feels easier than pushing forward.

Why these books?

Because they aren't just about business. They're about building the right business, leading with purpose, thinking strategically, and making financial decisions that lead to long-term success. Each book on this list has the power to shift your mindset, sharpen your strategy, and give you an edge in the entrepreneurial journey.

The best Founders are always learning. The only question is—are you willing to invest in your growth? If so, start with these books. Your future self (and your business) will thank you.

Rich Dad Poor Dad– Robert Kiyosaki
7 Habits of Highly Effective People– Stephen R. Covey
Think and Grow Rich– Napoleon Hill
The Art of War– Sun Tzu
Start with Why– Simon Sinek
The Richest Man in Babylon– George S. Clason
The E-Myth Revisited– Michael E. Gerber
How to Win Friends & Influence People– Dale Carnegie
The Hard Thing About Hard Things– Ben Horowitz
Blue Ocean Strategy– W. Chan Kim – Renée Mauborgne

Bonus

The Magic of Thinking Big– David J. Schwartz

Operations

About Kathleen Wood

Kathleen Wood is the Founder of Kathleen Wood Partners (KWP), an innovative and award-winning growth strategy firm dedicated to propelling Founder-led businesses to new levels of success. Kathleen and her team work with Founders in scaling and accelerating their visions into actionable results through strategic growth solutions, operational excellence, competitive sales strategies, and transformative leadership development. The KWP expertise includes range of Founder-led businesses in the restaurant, hospitality, technology, and manufacturing industries.

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