Running a business—especially from a coworking space or a virtual setup—comes with its own set of highs and lows. There are days when you're on top of the world, and others where you're unsure of your next move. In those moments, the right book can give you a fresh perspective, a bit of courage, or a much-needed breakthrough idea.
Here’s a list of 10 books that have helped countless entrepreneurs navigate uncertainty, scale smarter, and stay inspired—no matter where they're working from.
1. The Lean Startup by Eric Ries
If you're building a product or service, this book will change the way you approach growth. Eric Ries introduces a method that helps startups test, adapt, and evolve their ideas without wasting time or money. It’s perfect for today’s flexible work world, where fast feedback loops and minimal viable products are the name of the game.
Key takeaway: You don’t need everything to be perfect before launching. Test early. Adapt often.
2. Zero to One by Peter Thiel
Most startups compete in already crowded markets. But Thiel encourages entrepreneurs to think bigger—to create something new rather than improving what already exists. If you're setting up shop in a small office with big dreams, this book gives you the mindset to innovate, not imitate.
Key takeaway: The most valuable companies build something unique—don’t be the next, be the first.
3. The Hard Thing About Hard Things by Ben Horowitz
This isn’t a feel-good book—it’s raw, real, and incredibly insightful. Ben Horowitz talks about what it’s actually like to lead a company through uncertainty, failure, layoffs, and hard decisions. For founders juggling operations from a managed office or shared space, this book feels like a straight talk from someone who's been there.
Key takeaway: There's no formula for the hardest decisions—but you’re not alone in facing them.
4. Rework by Jason Fried & David Heinemeier Hansson
Working remotely? Juggling multiple roles? Rework is for you. It breaks down why many traditional "rules" of business are outdated and shows you how small, focused teams can outperform large corporations.
Key takeaway: Meetings, long hours, and rigid plans don’t guarantee success. Simplicity and clarity do.
5. The $100 Startup by Chris Guillebeau
Think you need a big budget to start a business? Think again. Chris Guillebeau shares stories of everyday people who built profitable businesses with very little money—sometimes from a laptop in a coffee shop or a coworking desk.
Key takeaway: Skills, hustle, and creativity often matter more than capital.
6. Atomic Habits by James Clear
Success isn't about one big idea. It’s about consistent habits. Whether you’re a solo founder or managing a growing team, this book helps you create better systems and routines that stick—even in fast-moving work environments.
Key takeaway: Small changes, done daily, lead to big results.
7. Tools of Titans by Tim Ferriss
Ever wonder how top performers think, work, and stay productive? Ferriss distills interviews with billionaires, athletes, and entrepreneurs into actionable takeaways you can apply immediately—whether you’re brainstorming in a meeting room or working solo in a private office.
Key takeaway: You don’t need to reinvent the wheel—learn from those who’ve already done it well.
8. The E-Myth Revisited by Michael E. Gerber
Most small business owners wear all the hats. But Gerber explains why that mindset limits growth—and how to build systems that allow your business to run smoothly without you being everywhere at once.
Key takeaway: Work on your business, not just in it.
9. Purple Cow by Seth Godin
You can have the best product in the world, but if nobody notices—it won’t matter. Godin's book helps you think differently about marketing and branding, especially if you're launching a business in a competitive space.
Key takeaway: Be remarkable—or be invisible.
10. Good to Great by Jim Collins
This classic dives deep into why some companies succeed beyond expectation, while others remain average. It’s not just about strategy—it’s about people, culture, and disciplined leadership.
Key takeaway: Greatness isn’t luck. It’s a series of deliberate decisions and habits.
Where Books Meet Action
Reading sharpens your thinking. But execution happens in the right environment. Whether you need a quiet corner to brainstorm, a virtual office to establish your business presence or a fully managed workspace where your team can thrive—your surroundings matter.
If you're looking for flexible workspaces that evolve with your needs, MyBranch offers shared offices, managed spaces, and virtual offices in 35+ cities across India—giving you the freedom to grow on your own terms.
So grab a book, grab a coffee, and keep building. Every big idea starts with a small, intentional step.