10 Business Books That’ll Make You Smarter, Richer, and a Better Boss
Running a business is hard enough without feeling like you need a PhD in finance. But the truth is, understanding money—how it flows, grows, and occasionally disappears like socks in a dryer—is crucial for any entrepreneur. Whether you’re just starting or scaling up, these books will give you the financial edge you need. And don’t worry, we’ve made it easy—each book comes with two simple sections: What’s it about? and Why it’s a must for SME owners.
1. The Psychology of Money: Timeless Lessons on Wealth, Greed, and Happiness – Morgan Housel
What’s it about?
This book dives into the emotional side of money—why we make financial decisions based on psychology rather than logic. Through engaging storytelling, Housel reveals how our behaviors impact wealth-building more than spreadsheets do.
Why it’s a must for SME owners:
Because making business decisions based on emotion rather than reason is a fast track to financial chaos. This book helps you understand your own money mindset, so you can make smarter, long-term choices.
2. The Intelligent Investor (Rev. Ed.): The Definitive Book on Value Investing – Benjamin Graham
What’s it about?
Considered the Bible of investing, this book teaches you the principles of value investing—how to analyze stocks, avoid speculation, and make disciplined financial decisions.
Why it’s a must for SME owners:
Even if you’re not planning to play the stock market, the concept of value investing applies to running a business—knowing the worth of assets, making informed financial moves, and avoiding trends that could sink you.
3. What’s Up With Women and Money?: How To Do All the Financial Stuff You’ve Been Avoiding – Jean Chatzky
What’s it about?
A no-nonsense guide to financial empowerment for women, this book covers everything from saving to investing, budgeting, and money confidence.
Why it’s a must for SME owners:
For female entrepreneurs (or anyone who wants to take control of their finances without jargon overload), this book makes financial literacy approachable and actionable.
4. The Little Book of Common Sense Investing – John C. Bogle
What’s it about?
Bogle, the founder of Vanguard, champions a simple investment approach: low-cost index funds. No risky bets, no get-rich-quick schemes—just smart, long-term strategies.
Why it’s a must for SME owners:
Because running a business is risky enough—your investments don’t have to be. Learn how to grow wealth the slow, steady, and proven way.
5. Financial Literacy for Young Adults Simplified – Adams Scott
What’s it about?
This book breaks down complex financial concepts into simple, digestible lessons for young adults looking to master money early on.
Why it’s a must for SME owners:
Even if you’re no longer a “young adult,” this book is a perfect crash course for any entrepreneur who skipped Finance 101 and wants to get a solid foundation in money management.
6. The Total Money Makeover (Updated and Expanded) – Dave Ramsey
What’s it about?
A step-by-step guide to financial freedom, Ramsey lays out a proven plan to eliminate debt, build wealth, and secure financial peace.
Why it’s a must for SME owners:
Because running a business while drowning in debt is like trying to swim with bricks tied to your ankles. This book helps you create financial stability so you can focus on growth.
7. Rich AF: The Winning Money Mindset That Will Change Your Life – Vivian Tu
What’s it about?
This book is all about shifting your mindset around money and building wealth with confidence.
Why it’s a must for SME owners:
Mindset matters. If you’ve ever felt like money is a struggle, this book will help reframe your thinking and empower you to take charge of your finances like a boss.
8. A Random Walk Down Wall Street: The Best Investment Guide That Money Can Buy – Burton G. Malkiel
What’s it about?
A classic on investing, this book argues that trying to “beat the market” is a fool’s errand, and instead, you should adopt a long-term, diversified strategy.
Why it’s a must for SME owners:
Because business owners should invest wisely—not just in their businesses, but in their futures. Learn how to build wealth without falling for market gimmicks.
9. Your Next Five Moves: Master the Art of Business Strategy – Patrick Bet-David
What’s it about?
A playbook for entrepreneurs looking to think ahead, anticipate challenges, and make calculated moves to grow their businesses.
Why it’s a must for SME owners:
Running a business isn’t just about money—it’s about strategy. This book will help you stay ahead of the competition and make smart, scalable decisions.
10. The Law of Success: The Master Wealth-Builder’s Complete and Original Lesson Plan for Achieving Your Dreams – Napoleon Hill
What’s it about?
A deep dive into the principles of success, wealth-building, and personal development from the legendary author of Think and Grow Rich.
Why it’s a must for SME owners:
Because success isn’t just about knowing the numbers—it’s about mindset, persistence, and smart decision-making. This book gives you a blueprint for achieving long-term business success.
Mastering money isn’t about having the biggest bank account—it’s about knowing how to make smart financial moves that support your business and personal goals. Whether you want to get out of debt, invest wisely, or simply feel more confident in financial decisions, these books are your go-to resources. So, which one are you starting with first?
