Today I put together a personal list: 10 of the best books I’ve ever read that could be considered essential for anyone navigating the world of business. But first, what exactly is a “bedside book”? To me, it’s the kind of book you want to keep close at all times. One you can open to any random page and still walk away with insight. A book that can guide your decisions in life or business — anytime.
Here’s what each one offers in a single sentence:
10. Winning: The Unforgiving Race to Greatness – Tim Groover
It explains how winning is more a matter of character than strategy — and how those with that inner fire are the ones who rise. If you can light that fire within yourself, you’ll win. That’s the real key to becoming a “winner.”
9. The Lean Startup – Eric Ries
This book breaks down the startup journey in a simple, understandable way. Ries has written other books on the topic, but this one remains the most accessible.
8. The 48 Laws of Power – Robert Greene
It shows how to avoid losing power in a world full of subtle manipulators. While some of its advice might seem ethically grey, I think it’s essential reading — especially when used against those who deserve it.
7. Silikon Vadisinde 5 Parasız – Emre Şimdi
Written by a young Turkish entrepreneur, it tells the story of chasing a dream with nothing but an idea. A must-read for anyone stuck behind the “no money, no chance” wall of pessimism.
6. Zero to One – Peter Thiel
There’s no better book to explain what creating real value truly means. Anyone wasting time chasing “get rich quick” schemes in stocks or crypto needs to read this. If you’re at zero, you’re at zero — and unless you build something meaningful, you’re never reaching the life you imagine.
5. Networking – Ertuğrul Belen
I finished this book in one sitting and found it incredibly valuable. Its short stories can be read daily, each offering a new perspective. It explains the importance of shaping your circle and breaks down the cliché, “you are the average of the five people around you,” in a relatable way.
4. The Personal MBA – Josh Kaufman
If you want to start a business, having a solid business education is key — preferably from the world’s top schools. But since most of us don’t have access to that, this book offers everything you need to know, in simple terms.
3. Measure What Matters – John Doerr
It clearly lays out how to set meaningful goals and build a roadmap to actually achieve them.
2. The Hard Thing About Hard Things – Ben Horowitz
This one doesn’t even need an explanation. It’s the startup bible. Possibly the best book ever written on the subject.
1. Good to Great – Jim Collins
The best book I’ve ever read about leadership. Its perspective on leadership vs. management, and how it categorizes different leadership types, completely shifted how I see things. The first time I read it, I was blown away — and even today, every time I reopen it, I find something new that makes me go, “Wow, so that’s what that means.” Truly a special book.
Bonus: The Daily Stoic – Ryan Holiday
I included this one because mental clarity matters too. It offers timeless teachings on how to deal with ignorant, petty, or toxic people who try to drag you down. Essential for staying mentally grounded.
