In a world full of books, it’s no surprise that entrepreneurs are drawn to the craft of writing. Whether you want to create a new narrative for your passions or need something to keep your mind stimulated as you grow your business, books allow for deep reflection and the possibility of new adventures.
Here are ten of the best books to make money online, ranging from business advice to inspirational stories and offering something for everyone.
1. Getting to Yes by Roger Fisher and William Ury
What is often perceived as a ‘spiritual’ or ‘philosophical’ book is actually very much “profit-making” related. This is a classic work on negotiation that has influenced countless businesses and professional environments. A wonderful read for those wanting to learn to build mutually beneficial bargains or seeking inspiration for creative problem-solving.
2. Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki
One of the bestselling books of all time, designed to teach “normal’ people how to become rich. It’s a bit like ‘Rich Dad, Poor Dad’, but with a twist. Not only is it about the benefits of wealth, but it also highlights the importance of a good education. And what is a good education if not training the mind for success in the world of business?
3. Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill
‘Think and Grow Rich’ is a bestseller that has sold over a million copies. One of the key insights it shares with readers is the concept of ‘positive thinking’. Hill was a well-known American ‘quant’ who believed that mental attitude was more important than material resources in determining one’s level of success. While this approach may not suit everyone, it has great appeal to those wanting to live a happier and more fulfilling life.
4. The Four-Step Process of Attracting Abundance by Louise Hay
If you’re looking to make money online, you’re no doubt aware of the abundance of ‘get-rich-quick’ opportunities that dot the internet. While it is important to be wary of these ‘get-rich-quick-squads’, it is also important not to be completely dismissive of the possibility of earning extra cash online. After all, there is plenty of legitimate work that you can do from home that may one day, potentially, turn into a steady and reliable source of income.
5. Secrets of the Millionaire Mind by Wallace D. Wattles
‘Secrets of the Millionaire Mind’ is one of the first books that I think of whenever I think about making money online. First published in 1912, it is an early example of a bestseller that inspired and influenced entrepreneurs around the world. The book focuses on the minds of wealthy people and offers advice on how to ‘think like a millionaire’. It’s a short book, but a classic. A timeless classic still relevant today as much as it was over a hundred years ago.
6. The Subtle Art of Enjoying yourself by M.F.K. Fisher
‘The Subtle Art of Enjoying Yourself’ by M.F.K. Fisher is a collection of essays and articles that celebrate the joy of life. Considered one of the greatest living writers on personal finance and investing, Fisher’s writing is characterized by its wit, wisdom and clarity. Fisher’s timeless essays and advice on how to spend happily and wisely will resonate with anyone seeking to make money online.
7. Rich Dad’s Advice: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money by Robert Kiyosaki
‘Rich Dad’s Advice’ is one of the newer books on this list, but it has already become a popular pick among those looking to make money online. The book continues the successful author’s approach of teaching ‘normal’ people how to be rich, using insights from the rich and famous. It covers some of the same ground as ‘Think and Grow Rich’, but it is more practical and geared toward readers who want to start a business or make money online.
8. Make Money Online
The first edition of ‘Make Money Online’ was published in 1997 and has since gone through numerous printings. It is, perhaps, the best-known of the books on this list and is, perhaps, the most accessible, especially for those wanting to make money online. The book focuses on providing advice to readers who want to make money online – either from a full-time job or as a side-hustle. It is a short book, but a classic. A timeless classic still relevant today as much as it was over 20 years ago.
9. The Traveler’s Gift by Dr. Richard W. Ryan
‘The Traveler’s Gift’ is another classic that is still highly relevant today. First published in 1949, this is a travelogue that explores the idea of ‘intentional travel’. The concept is that you can choose to travel either for pleasure or to learn. You can choose the place, the time and the purpose of your trip, but you cannot choose the person you will meet along the way.
It would be a missed opportunity if you don’t read this classic. ‘The Traveler’s Gift’ offers incredible insight into the way minds work and it is a great read for anyone seeking to find out more about the entrepreneurial spirit and the creative side of thinking. It’s a short book that is even more relevant today than it was sixty years ago.
10. Creative Destruction: Making Money & Building Brands in the Age of Digital Revolution by John Chow
Finally, we arrive at the tenth book on our list. ‘Creative Destruction: Making Money & Building Brands in the Age of Digital Revolution’ by John Chow is, in my opinion, one of the most influential books on making money online. It was first published in 2016 and has been a bestseller ever since. The key reason it is number ten on our list is that it is an extremely influential book in the field of ‘growth hacking’ – making money online through effectively any means possible. It is, without question, the ‘go-to’ book for those looking to make money online and even those looking to make money from an existing business.
This isn’t just because it is a brilliant book or because it is currently one of the best-selling books of all time. It is because every other book on this list is either directly inspired by or builds on the insights and lessons presented in ‘Creative Destruction’. Without doubt, this is the cream of the crop when it comes to books about making money online.