5 Books That’ll Change the Way You Think (and Maybe Even Make You More Money)

Here are the Must-Reads Business Leaders and Entrepreneurs Swear By

Every year, I set a goal to cut down on screen time and read more. Am I great at sticking to it? It depends. Nonetheless, I love a book that makes me rethink how I’m doing things and comes with some valuable takeaways too.

If you’re looking to sharpen your thinking, make better decisions, and maybe even boost your bottom line, here are some books belong on your reading list.

1. Thinking, Fast and Slow – Daniel Kahneman

Ever wonder why your brain sometimes makes lightning-fast (but totally wrong) decisions? Nobel Prize-winning psychologist Daniel Kahneman explains the two systems that drive our thinking: System 1 (fast, intuitive, often biased) and System 2 (slow, logical, deliberate). If you’ve ever made an impulsive decision and later thought, “what was I thinking?” – this book will help you understand exactly that—and how to outsmart your own cognitive traps.

2. Start with Why – Simon Sinek

You know those brands and leaders that inspire die-hard loyalty? They all have one thing in common: a strong why. Sinek’s Golden Circle framework teaches you how to lead with purpose, whether you’re running a business, building a brand, or just trying to communicate more effectively. If you’ve ever struggled with how do I stand out? this book will change the way you think about your message.

3. The Culture Code – Daniel Coyle

What makes great teams actually great? Spoiler: It’s not just talent. Coyle dives into high-performing groups—from Pixar to Navy SEALs—to uncover the three key traits that create strong cultures: safety, vulnerability, and purpose. Whether you lead a team or just want to be a better collaborator, this book will make you rethink how you build trust and connection.

4. Breath – James Nestor

We’ve all been doing it wrong. Breathing, that is. Journalist James Nestor explores the lost art of proper breathing and how it impacts everything from sleep to stress to athletic performance. You’ll learn how tiny changes in the way you breathe can lead to better health, more energy, and even a sharper mind. If you think you already know how to breathe, think again.

5. Profit First – Mike Michalowicz

Nearly every entrepreneur and business owner I’ve met swears by this book for anyone looking to start or grow a business. Michalowicz turns traditional accounting upside down with his Profit First method, ensuring that business owners get paid before expenses take over. If you want a simpler, stress-free way to build a profitable business—without drowning in spreadsheets—this book is a must-read.

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For our full list of recommendations, head over to Ethos Amazon Storefront. And if you have a book that changed the way you think, drop it in the comments.

Written by Liz Hund