10 Game Changing Business Books That Helped Me Build a Profitable Online Business

When I started my business, I was searching for guidance, motivation, and practical strategies to create something truly profitable and sustainable.

Over the years, I’ve read countless business books, but these 10 Game-Changing Business Books that helped Me Build a Profitable Online Business. For me, they have been the most impactful in shaping my success. Whether you’re just starting or looking to scale, these books will give you the mindset, skills, and strategies to build a business that gives you both financial freedom and fulfilment.

1. Start with Why – Simon Sinek

Key Takeaway: Understanding the deeper purpose behind your business leads to stronger branding, loyal customers, and long-term success.

2. You Are a Badass – Jen Sincero

Key Takeaway: Confidence and mindset are everything—believe in yourself, take action, and make money doing what you love. This book made me laugh out loud in places, her use of language is formidable. And yes even though this book has been around a while, I think it is valuable for women in business to feel confident to work there way.

3. The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck* – Mark Manson

Key Takeaway: Focus only on what truly matters in your business and stop worrying about things that don’t contribute to your success. I took this away on holiday a couple of years ago, which raised a few eyebrows round the pool. But the essence of this book is that you do you is the best way forward, and that method is not often following the easiest or well-trodden path of others.

4. Diary of a CEO – Steven Bartlett

Key Takeaway: Honest, real-life business lessons from one of the most influential entrepreneurs of our time. I came to this book via the podcast that I listened to endlessly and enjoyed. If I am honest I like the podcast more but this book has to be included because for one it is from a fellow Devon dweller and for two it is packed with stories that resonate no matter what sage of business you are at. My favourite one for me is the one about the slide…

5. They Ask, You Answer – Marcus Sheridan

Key Takeaway: The secret to powerful marketing? Answer your customers’ questions openly and honestly to build trust and drive sales. When I talk to any of my clients about websites, blogs or social media I say all you have to do is answer your client’s questions. This book helped me see the simplicity in that.

6. Do Open: How a Simple Email Newsletter Can Transform Your Business – David Hieatt

Key Takeaway: Email is not dead! A well-crafted newsletter can build a loyal audience and boost your business. Well, this book might be small but its packed with tips and ideas on making your email newsletter a thing of beauty and they people desire to read. I can’t impress the value of a newsletter to all businesses. Heck you can even sign up to my weekly Tuesday Tips to see this in action here

7. Hype Yourself – Lucy Werner

Key Takeaway:is a must-have PR toolkit for getting your business featured in the media. Packed with insider tips from journalists and industry experts, it covers everything from strategy to creative campaigns, with access to online resources.

8. Atomic Habits – James Clear

Key Takeaway: Small, consistent actions lead to massive success over time. If you often find yourself saying” I would do that if only I had time…. ” then this book is for you. Get into habit stacking and behavioural changes that little by little stack up to achieving more than you think. PS I have found this to be very effective on teenagers needing and not really wanting to revise…

9. Manifest – Roxie Nafousi

Key Takeaway: This is a powerful guide to unlocking your potential through the art of manifestation. Blending self-belief, visualization, and action, it offers a practical, step-by-step approach to achieving your goals and transforming your mindset for success. I am not into the mubo jumbo woo woo guides but this is different. This is about getting clear, laser-sharp with your focus of what you want to get out of your business

10. Building a StoryBrand – Donald Miller

Key Takeaway: Clarify your brand message so customers listen. Now at times, this was like reading a star wars script …which is not my vibe. at all. I had to skip back and forward to remember who was who…. But stick with it as the insights to building your own story are hugely helpful. We all have sat around together listening or telling stories forever, this book just shows us how to apply this to our business with ease. I actully enjoyed this book far more listening to on Audible which you can get for free for the next month here

Another 10 Business Books That Helped Me Build a Profitable Online Business Read more here…

The blog contains affiliate links, but please also check them out at your nearest independent bookshop.

These books have been super valuable in my business journey, and I highly recommend them to any woman looking to build a profitable business. I’ve linked each book to my Amazon shop so you can grab your copies easily or if you want a free Kindle trial click here

Have you read any of these? Which book has helped you the most in your business journey? Let’s chat in the comments!

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