5 Books Every Female Entrepreneur Should Read
A revolution of female entrepreneurs has taken industries by storm in the United States. According to the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO), women own over 11.6 million firms and employ 9 million people. Moreover, women-owned businesses account for 39% of privately owned enterprises.
Does that make you feel empowered? It should. Of course, becoming a successful entrepreneur has its challenges, especially since women tend to have several other responsibilities they must manage while running a company.
If you've ever aspired to own your own business, these five best books for young business women will help awaken your untapped potential.
1. “Girl, Stop Apologizing: A Shame-Free Plan for Embracing and Achieving Your Goals” by Rachel Hollis
Leaning into negative self-talk and limiting beliefs is a surefire way to hinder success in the business world. Over time, you might even begin to believe the criticism you spew at yourself.
Successful female entrepreneurs have at least one thing in common: They work hard to counter internal criticism with affirmations of growth and confidence. Instead of dragging themselves down, they aim to build their self-esteem to reach their goals.
For example, normalizing failure is a critical part of growth. As such, altering our mindset to perceive failure as an opportunity to come back stronger turns it into something good.
For those who've struggled with recognizing their value and worth, Hollis' book provides all the essential tricks and tools for creating a positive attitude to counter the negative chatter.
2. “Grit: The Power and Passion of Perseverance” by Angela Duckworth
Let's face it: Starting a business has several ups and downs and can take its toll if you lack the stamina to proceed through trying times.
Unfortunately, 18.4% of private businesses fail after one year, making “Grit: The Power and Passion of Perseverance” one of the best books for young businesswomen to learn boldness and courage as entrepreneurial leaders.
Readers will enjoy Duckworth's insights into what it means to own your power as a businesswoman and receive the encouragement needed to harbor and hold onto their determination.
3. “Leap Frog: The New Revolution for Women Entrepreneurs” by Natalie Molina Niño and Sara Grace
Gender bias in the business world is all too apparent. While decades-long strides have strengthened female leadership, women are still widely underrepresented across all sectors.
For example, men comprise 3.3% of executives while women account for 1.6%. Likewise, 10.1% of senior managers are men, while 6.2% are women.
Sadly, the COVID-19 pandemic bridged the gender leadership gap even further, with one in three women considering leaving the workforce due to burnout.
Female professionals endure a lot, from sexism to microaggressions to a lack of opportunities for advancement. For an easier time navigating male-dominated industries, female entrepreneurs should dive into “Leap Frog.”
Written by female technology entrepreneurs, “Leap Frog” delivers 50 strategies for women to outsmart gender constraints and work their way up the corporate ladder.
4. “Thrive: The Third Metric to Redefining Success and Creating a Life of Well-Being, Wisdom and Wonder” by Ariana Huffington
Your career isn't the only measure of your success, and Ariana Huffington highlights the importance of developing a solid work-life balance as a female business owner.
Women tend to overextend themselves with never-ending to-do lists and professional and personal obligations. Frequently, they ignore the signs of declining health and forgo developing a self-care routine.
Yet, high stress levels can trigger gastrointestinal problems and compromise your body's immunity. You might also experience weight gain, hair loss, or teeth grinding.
Huffington's book can help you find the meaning of success outside of your career and prioritize other aspects of your life for greater well-being.
5. “Side Hustle: From Idea to Income in 27 Days” by Chris Guillebeau
The U.S. gig economy is hot, with 2 million new gig workers in 2020 – equating to 35% of the nation's workforce – and a market growth rate of 33%.
Perhaps you're not ready to quit your day job to devote your time and energy to a side hustle. That's understandable amid fluctuating markets, but you shouldn't give up on your dream so easily.
One of the best books for young businesswomen to turn their gigs into a livable salary is right at their fingertips. In Guillebeau's “Side Hustle: From Idea to Income in 27 Days,” side hustlers learn how to launch their passion projects into the careers of their dreams in under a month.
Lessons From the Best Books for Female Entrepreneurs
Books are an invaluable resource for female entrepreneurs seeking success in career development. From current insights to a diverse collection of shared experiences, young businesswomen discover everything they need to know to become stellar leaders.
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Beth, the Managing Editor and content manager at Body+Mind, is well-respected in the mental health, nutrition and fitness spaces. In her spare time, Beth enjoys cooking and going for runs with her dog.
