At approximately 2500 years old, Sun Tzu’s treatise on the art and conduct of war and warfare is a gem for entrepreneurs and business people.  Regarded throughout the world as one of the top books on war, the Art of War is full of nuggets of military thought. Many of the most famous aphorisms, such as “Know thy enemy, know thyself, and you will never lose in a hundred battles” are now part of everyday speech, even in the west. Sun Tzu’s is a basic text for all, whether in the military, politics or business worlds to read and understand.

The tipping point seeks to explain how word of mouth messaging or as we refer to it today “viral messaging” happens, what starts it and motivates the dramatic transformation of unknown to known. Although I found some of Malcolm Gladwells writing a little heavy and over worded at times, the core concepts teach good marketing principles and for this reason I recommend the read.

In the information overloaded society we live in less has become more, and speaking when it counts and not simply speaking for the sake of being heard is an art that most modern day entrepreneurs and sales people need to learn.  Talk Less, Say more teaches that lesson very eloquently and is therefore I read I highly recommend.

This book written by Dale Carnegie is based on stories and experiences he gained from night classes he taught on public speaking. All of the advice is useful and relevant in our every day interactions with people, and it is amazing how well the advice in the book stands the test of time. A great read for personal and business use.

When most people think of wealth they envision a false sense of reality. Being wealthy is not always measured in material possessions but rather in your ability to be economically independent and free. “The Millionaire Next Door” takes a look into the world of the average American millionaire, the realities and lessons are as surprising as the other, from the cars they choose to the way they invest their money to their career choices. This is a book everyone should read.

This was one of the key books that unlocked my thinking it terms of the world being a global village. The title of the book is actually  is a metaphor for viewing the world as a level playing field in terms of commerce, where all competitors have an equal opportunity, and how geographical divisions are becoming increasingly irrelevant. This is a must read for any serious business person.

Hendry Ford’s thinking represented a logical approach to business that few of our modern business leaders can ever emulate. His vision of a car for Everyman and a living wage for his employees created the middle class and forever changed America. But the deeply flawed genius got lost in his own new world.Among the lessons you can learn from his life: Make yourself stand out. If you find a diamond, don’t throw it away. Don’t neglect opportunities, no matter how remote. Understand your weaknesses. When you do recognize your mistakes, and don’t punish the world for them.

This is a read I highly recommend.