“I’m thinking about starting a business but I’m not sure how to go about it.” I hear this phrase quite often these days. People who find themselves out of a job and contemplating starting a new business, or  those who are trying to pursue their dreams, often find themselves at the brink of a new venture not knowing what to do next. In my experience most new businesses fail not because of lack of talent, work ethic or drive. I have seen a lot of hard-working, talented people fail because they don’t understand the “business” part of their craft.

Figuring out how to deliver a great product is only part of your business dilemma. You need to understand concepts like scalability,  sustainability, and cash-flow management. While those things might not be the “sexy” part of you do, they are vital to its survival.

Here are 5 books every business owner, ministry leader, entrepreneur should read. If you’re thinking about starting a new business, then this list is a must.

EMyth Revisited by Michael E. Gerber . I don’t care who you are, if you’re leading or thinking about leading any organization, you need to read this.

7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey. This book has helped me tremendously through the years on setting priorities.

How To Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie. The title says it all.

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill . Don’t let the title fool you, this book will help you understand the power of a vision.