5 Books That Transformed My Approach to Business and Personal Growth in 2024 – And How You Can Use Them Too


This year, I've read five excellent books that have impacted how I approach my business and personal development. Each book provides valuable insights that can help anyone grow in a meaningful way, whether they're entrepreneurs or individuals looking to improve themselves. Here are my top five reads for 2024, my takeaways, and how you can apply these lessons to improve your life and business.


1. The E-Myth by Michael E. Gerber


My Top Takeaways:

  • Work on Your Business, Not Just In It: Many entrepreneurs get stuck in their businesses' day-to-day tasks. This book taught me that building systems that allow your business to run without constant involvement is key to sustainable growth.
  • Balance the Three Roles: Gerber highlights the importance of balancing the roles of Technician, Manager, and Entrepreneur. I realized I am too focused on "doing the work" (the Technician role) and not enough on planning for the future as an Entrepreneur. I need to change that.


How You Can Use It:

  • If you're always in the trenches, handling every task yourself, it's time to step back and look at your business from a higher level. Start creating systems and processes for repetitive tasks, and delegate whenever possible.
  • Reflect on your business roles: Are you too focused on the "doing" and neglecting the big picture? Take time each week to work on your business's long-term vision and strategy.

2. The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy


My Top Takeaways:

  • Small, Consistent Actions Lead to Big Results: The compound effect is the idea that small daily actions add up over time. This principle has been vital in building better habits for my personal growth and business.
  • Track Your Habits: Hardy emphasizes the importance of tracking your habits to gain clarity and accountability in achieving goals.
  • Break down your big goals into tiny, manageable daily habits. Consistency leads to lasting results, whether you spend 10 minutes on business strategy or exercise for 15 minutes a day.
  • Keep a daily log of your progress. This doesn't have to be complicated—a simple notebook or app can help you track your habits, stay accountable, and see how far you've come.


3. Essentialism by Greg McKeown


My Top Takeaways:

  • The Power of Less: McKeown taught me that doing fewer things but doing them well is the key to success. Prioritizing what truly matters in my life and business has made me more focused and productive.
  • Learn to Say No: One of the most valuable lessons I've learned is the importance of saying no to the non-essential. This has allowed me to invest my time and energy where it matters most.


How You Can Use It:

  • Look at your daily to-do list—what can you cut out? Focus on the tasks that have the most significant impact on your goals. Learning to say "no" to non-essential tasks or commitments will free up time for the things that matter most.
  • Set aside time each week to reflect on what's truly essential. Use this space to cut distractions and work deeply on high-impact projects or decisions.

4. Cues by Vanessa Van Edwards


My Top Takeaways:

  • Master Nonverbal Communication: This book helped me become more aware of the power of nonverbal cues, such as body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice. They have helped me communicate more effectively and build stronger relationships with clients. I also use them during my portrait sessions to help my clients feel and look more charismatic in their photos.
  • Intentional Presence: Understanding how others perceive you and using subtle cues to show confidence and trustworthiness has made a massive difference in how I present myself professionally.


How You Can Use It:

  • Start by observing your own body language in meetings or interactions. Are you making eye contact, smiling, or using open gestures? Simple adjustments can help you appear more approachable and trustworthy.
  • Practice reading other people's non-verbal cues. By paying attention to small details like posture or facial expressions, you can better understand how others feel and adapt your communication.


5. Ditch the Pitch by Steve Yastrow


My Top Takeaways:

  • Conversations Over Pitches: This book confirmed my approach to client interactions. Instead of memorizing a script, I focus on having dynamic, honest conversations that build stronger connections.
  • Active Listening: It confirms the value of truly listening to what others say and responding in real-time rather than having a pre-planned pitch.


How You Can Use It:

  • Next time you meet a client or network, focus on having a genuine conversation rather than delivering a pre-rehearsed pitch. Ask open-ended questions, listen carefully, and adapt your responses based on their needs and interests.
  • Practice active listening in all your interactions—at work, with friends, and with family. This simple shift in mindset can help build more meaningful relationships and deepen your connections.


How These Books Can Transform Your Life

Each book has provided practical, actionable insights that have helped me grow my business and improve my daily habits. Whether organizing work, making small, continuous improvements, focusing on priorities, mastering communication, or engaging in authentic conversations, these lessons can benefit anyone who wants to enhance their life or business.

If you're ready to take the next step in your personal and professional growth, start with one of these books.


What lessons from these books resonate with you the most? How will you apply them to your business or personal life?

Please share your thoughts, and let's grow together!