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Entrepreneurship isn’t just about hard work – it’s about working smart. The best business leaders never stop learning, refining and challenging how they think. Whether you’re running your first startup or building your empire, the right book can completely shift your perspective and unlock your next big move.

Here are five must-reads, recommended by our CEO Ryan Zink. See why every business owner should have on their shelf – and how each one can help you build, grow and thrive on your own terms.

1. “Rich Dad Poor Dad” by Robert Kiyosaki

Key takeaway: Learn how to make money work for you.

This classic flips everything you’ve been taught about money upside down. Kiyosaki contrasts the mindset of his “rich dad” (investor and entrepreneur) with his “poor dad” (hard-working employee), revealing how wealth is really built through smart investing, ownership and understanding cash flow.

Why it matters: Entrepreneurs owners who think like investors create businesses that work for them – not the other way around. This book challenges you to stop trading time for money and start building assets that create freedom.

2. “Good to Great” by Jim Collins

Key takeaway: Greatness is built through discipline and purpose.

Collins and his research team studied companies that outperformed their competition for years – and found what separates the good from the truly great. Spoiler … it’s not luck. It’s leadership, focus and a relentless commitment to doing what you can be the best at.

Why it matters: If you’re growing a business (or franchise brand), this book helps you think long-term and build a team and mission that can sustain growth – without burning out or losing your “why.”

3. “Traction: Get a Grip on Your Business” by Gino Wickman

Key takeaway: Systems and accountability create freedom.

Wickman’s “Entrepreneurial Operating System” is a step-by-step framework that helps entrepreneurs organize chaos, streamline processes and build scalable teams. It’s not about overcomplicating your business – it’s about creating clarity and control.

Why it matters: Every business owner dreams of freedom, but without structure, freedom fades fast. EOS gives you the tools to scale your business smoothly, giving you time back for what matters most.

4. “The E-Myth Revisited” by Michael E. Gerber

Key takeaway: Don’t work in your business – work on it.

Gerber’s timeless lesson is simple but powerful: most entrepreneurs start businesses as technicians, not leaders. You might be great at what you do, but that doesn’t mean you know how to run a business.

Why it matters: This book teaches you how to build systems that allow your business to run without you doing everything yourself. That’s how you scale – and reclaim your time and sanity.

5. “Building a StoryBrand” by Donald Miller

Key takeaway: Clarity beats complexity every time.

Miller breaks down why most businesses struggle to connect with customers. They make themselves the hero of the story instead of focusing on their customer’s journey. His simple storytelling framework helps you position your brand so it resonates, converts and grows.

Why it matters: Whether you’re pitching investors, attracting franchisees or selling to customers, your message has to be clear. This book helps you create a brand story that actually drives results.

The Sidekick connection: From learning to living it

Each of these business books teach a powerful truth: success doesn’t come from doing more – it comes from doing what matters, intentionally and strategically.

That’s exactly what we believe here at Sidekick.

Like these authors, we help entrepreneurs gain clarity, confidence and control – without the confusion or costly mistakes. We vet every franchise opportunity against strict certification standards, so you can grow your wealth safely, efficiently and on your terms.

Because success shouldn’t be complicated.

With the right guidance (and the right franchise), you can build a business that gives you the freedom and flexibility you’ve been working for.

At Sidekick, we make that possible – one smart move at a time. Schedule a call with a Certified Advisor today.