I’m a big believer that the right book can change everything — your mindset, your confidence, your habits, even your income.
But let’s be real: some business books feel like they’re written by people with zero real-life responsibilities.
People who wake up at 4am, meditate for an hour, run 10k before breakfast, and have a nanny, chef, assistant and probably a live-in productivity coach.
Meanwhile, I’m over here reheating my tea for the fourth time and trying to remember where I’ve put my phone.
So trust me when I say — these books are different.
These are the books that actually shifted my thinking.
The ones that helped me grow as a female entrepreneur and a mum.
Here are the ones I recommend to everyone.
Just so you know, there are a couple of affiliate links in here — they don’t cost you anything, but they help keep my business running (and the tea fund topped up!).
1. Atomic Habits — James Clear
This book is the reason I no longer try to “overhaul my entire life on Monday” (only to crash by Wednesday).
It focuses on:
- Tiny, manageable habits
- Realistic growth
- Systems instead of motivation
- Progress that compounds
It changed how I work — especially with limited time.
2. The One Thing — Gary Keller
This book saved me from productivity burnout.
Its core message is simple:
Focus on ONE thing at a time.
Not 15 tabs.
Not 17 projects.
Not every idea all at once.
Just one thing that moves the needle.
This book is perfect for mums who feel pulled in every direction.
3. You Are a Badass at Making Money — Jen Sincero
This book helped me clean up my money mindset.
It’s sassy, honest, funny, and makes you feel like you’re capable of more than you’re giving yourself credit for.
My favourite parts were about:
- Letting go of guilt
- Building confidence
- Allowing abundance
- Taking action even when scared
A must-read for women stepping into entrepreneurship.
4. Company of One — Paul Jarvis
This book gave me permission to run a business that fits MY life — not someone else’s version of success.
It celebrates:
- Staying small intentionally
- Simplicity
- Lean business models
- Freedom over growth
It’s refreshing in a world that screams “scale! scale! scale!”
5. The E-Myth Revisited — Michael Gerber
This book is slightly more technical, but incredibly valuable.
It explains:
- Why so many small businesses fail
- The difference between doing the work and building a business
- How to create systems for growth
- Why you need processes even as a solopreneur
A brilliant read if you want long-term financial freedom.
6. Everything Is Figureoutable — Marie Forleo
This book is a giant motivational hug.
It’s uplifting, funny, relatable, and full of practical steps to stop overthinking and start doing.
Perfect for days when self-doubt tries to take over.
7. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People — Stephen Covey
A classic — and for good reason.
It helped me:
- Learn boundaries
- Protect my time
- Prioritise effectively
- Stop reacting and start leading
It’s one of the few books I revisit regularly.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to read every business book.
You don’t need to force yourself into someone else’s routine.
But reading books written by people who’ve walked the path before you?
That’s powerful.
These books helped me shift from overwhelmed to intentional…
from unsure to confident…
and from dreaming to actually doing.
I hope they do the same for you.
If you’re exploring flexible ways to earn around family life, my e-book 5 Ways to Make Passive Income for Female Entrepreneurs walks you through realistic options step by step.
