Books That Motivate Me

by Jeremy Schoemaker on July 19, 2007 · 172 comments

I have been contemplating starting a ShoeMoney book of the month club. Seems kind of ironic since I never read a book eh? Well lucky for us they have books on itunes. Anyway it might be interesting for some of the ShoeMoney readers to pickup what I am into book wise (itunes) cause its really my mindset.

For instance right now I have listened to tipping point by Malcom Gladwell like 10 times in the last 2 months. I listened to it on the way to and back from Miami and a lot at home while I am working on stuff. I think its a fricking fa nominal book and a must read for any online marketer. Tipping points and being able to recognize them are so important.

Other books that have made a huge difference in me in the business sense are

Donald Trump:

Trump – The Art Of The Deal

Think Like A Billionaire

How To Get Rich

Robert T. Kiyosak – Rich Dad Poor Dad

So what books motivate you?

About the author...

– who has written 2415 posts on ShoeMoney.com.

Hi I am Jeremy Schoemaker and ShoeMoney.com is my blog. 99% of the post here are done by me but you will see others occasionally make guest posts. This blog is fun to write but for my day job I run several online companies.

Images provided by ShutterStock


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{ 169 comments… read them below or add one }

1 A.J. July 19, 2007 at 11:37 am

I recently read “Talent is Never Enough” by John Maxwell and I really liked it.

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2 Chris July 19, 2007 at 11:42 am

The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason is a great read.

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3 NotAFan March 20, 2009 at 2:48 pm

I loved the 1/7th concept and the 1/10th concept and how to become a free man.

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4 Eric July 19, 2007 at 11:42 am

“The Richest Man in Babylon” motivated me recently.

I’ve read Trump’s “How to Get Rich” and “Rich Dad Poor Dad” as well. Each had some good points to take away.

I tried reading “The Tipping Point” but couldn’t seem to get through it.

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5 Chris July 19, 2007 at 11:42 am

The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason is a great read.

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6 devtrench blog July 19, 2007 at 11:44 am

The Rich Dad Poor Dad book really has motivated me. It really doesn’t do much in the way to tell you how to make money, but it has sparked a lot of creative thinking one how to do it myself. Great book, and thanks for the list.

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7 Dan Kelly July 19, 2007 at 11:56 am

1. The Science Of Getting Rich

2. Think And Grow Rich

3. Awaken The Giant Within

4. Secrets of The Millionaire Mind

5. The Success Principles: How To Get From Where You Are To Where You Want To Be

6. The Lazy Mans Way To Riches

7. The Attractor Factor

8. Wealth Beyond Reason

9. Rich Dad, Poor Dad

10. Cashflow Quadrant

11. Body For Life

12. Mentored By A Millionaire

13. The 4-Hour Workweek

And a *MUST WATCH* DVD… The Secret

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8 Todd July 19, 2007 at 12:04 pm

Rich Dad Poor Dad is an oldie but a goodie, should also read ‘the goal’ by eli goldratt.

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9 CPA Affiliates July 19, 2007 at 12:06 pm

thats a good read… I also enjoyed 4 hour work week Has some good thoughts and ideas. I also like the Tipping Point. another one is 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership.

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10 Desty July 19, 2007 at 12:26 pm

The Richest Man in Babylon is a MUST read!!!!

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11 chrisblogging.com July 19, 2007 at 12:33 pm

These motivational books all look great. But I have also found that those outside of the business world, such as sports books on this subject, are also quite helpful!

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12 MAF July 19, 2007 at 12:40 pm

Atlas Shrugged (or anything by Ayn Rand), Rich Dad Poor Dad, Think and Grow Rich

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13 printnpost July 19, 2007 at 1:14 pm

Trump – The Art Of The Deal – about to order it!
Think Like A Billionaire – About to order it!
How To Get Rich – CHECK! have it..
Robert T. Kiyosak – Rich Dad Poor Dad CHECK! best book ever!…I try to re-read it once per year when i feel in a slump.

- I also like 48 laws of power
- Cashflow Quadrant (this is rich dad poor dad part 2)

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14 Freebies July 19, 2007 at 1:27 pm

I agree, I really enjoyed Rich Dad, Poor Dad. It might be time to go read it again as a matter of fact! As for the others, I haven’t read them yet, but I’ll be sure to check them out soon. Thanks for the suggestions.

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15 Ben Steele July 19, 2007 at 1:35 pm

I recently read one of Richard Bransons books, called “Screw it… lets do it” only a little quick read book but entertaining and very inspiring.

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16 Ed July 19, 2007 at 1:45 pm

Think Grow Rich, Napoleon Hill

“Whatever the mind of man can conceive and believe, it can achieve.”

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17 Deelip July 19, 2007 at 1:46 pm

I recommend “The alchemist” before getting into the real business. It teaches you more than the book “How To Get Rich”.

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18 Ouchs July 19, 2007 at 1:52 pm

i love rich dad poor audio books

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19 Joeychgo July 19, 2007 at 2:03 pm

Playboy :)
Actually, a few of my favorites have been Iacocca, Pizza Tiger by Domino’s pizza founder Tom Monaghan, Managing by Harold Geneen (former CEO of ITT) and How To Sell Anything To Anybody by Joe Girard,

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20 Anna July 19, 2007 at 2:09 pm

Do you really not have affiliate tracking in those links to the Amazon books? That’s like flushing money down the toilet. I know you are rick and all, but taking 5 minutes to put up the aff link should net you a hundred bucks. You could at least pay one of your lackeys to do it.

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21 James July 19, 2007 at 2:10 pm

A couple that I highly recommend:

How to Win Friends and Influence People – Dale Carnegie
Never Eat Alone- Keith Ferrazi
Winning – Jack Welch

If you are a fan of the Sopranos read Leadership Sopranos Style – Deborrah Himsel

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22 Funny t shirts July 19, 2007 at 2:11 pm

I was just skimming Seth Godin’s, “All Marketers Are Liars” at the bookstore the other day. Seems like an interesting read.

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23 Eric Lander July 19, 2007 at 2:34 pm

Jeremy, you need to next start a post and thread for motivating songs. I often find that when it’s time to get down to it, I have certain playlists to do certain things.

Just a suggestion!

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24 Ouchs July 19, 2007 at 2:34 pm

Donald Trump are good reads too, haven’t read any of his books yet

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25 Google Tutor July 19, 2007 at 2:35 pm

I’ll second Winning

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26 Ouchs July 19, 2007 at 2:35 pm

Shoemoney when are you going to write your own book?

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27 Michael Martine July 19, 2007 at 2:45 pm

Anything by Tom Peters, plus the 48 Laws of Power

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28 Diorex July 19, 2007 at 2:52 pm

Recently –
Seth Godin’s – The Dip (encouragment for how and when to quit)
Chris Anderson’s – The Long Tail (just about every internet marketer is a beneficiary of this phenomenom)

All time favorites –
Michael Lewis – Liar’s Poker ( entertaining + teaches you to watch out for yourself because no one else is going to)
Jack Schwager – Market Wizards (shows how about a dozen guys make money on wall street – they all have a different approach – great outside the box kind of book)

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29 andrew July 19, 2007 at 2:55 pm

Ehh, I tend to disagree. Read the first 1/3 of the book and you’ll get the whole picture without having the same ideas regurgitated on you two more times.

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30 Brandon July 19, 2007 at 2:56 pm

Tipping Point is next on my list. I am currently reading The Little Red Book of Selling. Its no nonsense in its approach, and most of it is probably geared toward “regular” selling, but still a good read.

If you haven’t checked it out before, The Personal MBA has a great list of business related books – and a pretty cool idea behind the site in general.

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31 Corey July 19, 2007 at 2:59 pm

Couple of my authors and their books:
Zig Ziglar-Secrets of Closing the Sale
Peter Drucker-deep stuff normally, but good! Just finished Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Napolen Hill-Think and Grow Rich
Stephen Covey-Any thing related to 7 Habits

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32 andrew July 19, 2007 at 3:05 pm

“The millionaire next door” is also a great book.

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33 Jason July 19, 2007 at 3:08 pm

Almost bought a Trump book once, but he seems like such a butt crust.

Reading articles like the one the other day on Businessweek (that you’re in) pumps me up, but I try to avoid hype books when I can get it for free online. So I haven’t really read one…

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34 Vijay Teach Me July 19, 2007 at 3:09 pm

The books which influenced me the most are
1) Magic of thinking Big
2) Master key to riches
3) Think and grow rich
4) Rich Dad poor dad (I liked the first half of the book then it goes into real estate)
5) Billionaire Secrets to Success: Bill Bartmann
And some more….
and many more to read and learn…..

Vijay

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35 Pete July 19, 2007 at 3:09 pm

A bit of a sucker for these type of books & love most of them, one im suprised that hasnt cropped up:

Think & Grow Rich by Napolean Hill

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36 Jason July 19, 2007 at 3:10 pm

Actually did listen (audio book) to that one. Was pretty good. Not really a hype-you-up one, but enlightening.

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37 Jason July 19, 2007 at 3:10 pm

Was talking about “The millionaire next door” is also a great book comment….

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38 Rhea July 19, 2007 at 3:18 pm

I absolutely agree about The Tipping Point. I’ve read it twice. His other book, Blink, has an interesting premise, but was not as rich with information as The Tipping Point.

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39 vlad July 19, 2007 at 3:41 pm

So anyone actually gotten rich by reading these books except shoemoney ?

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40 Todd July 19, 2007 at 4:01 pm

I recently posted about a book I found pretty motivating: The 4 Hour Workweek.

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41 SonicReducer July 19, 2007 at 4:10 pm

The latest book that motivated me was “Into Thin Air” by John Krakauer. Great book that will want to make you live life to the fullest.

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42 Bill Hartzer July 19, 2007 at 4:52 pm

Great post! Any chance you could put those books together in a “deal” and sell them all at once? Just a thought.

Malcolm is great–had a chance to meet him a while back at Brett Tabke’s Pubcon where he was a keynote speaker. His other book, “Blink” is also a great read.

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43 Bill Hartzer July 19, 2007 at 4:54 pm

Oh yeah, I forgot to add…rich dad poor dad is also a great book, and any of the books by Clark Howard are pretty decent, too.

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44 CatherineL July 19, 2007 at 5:03 pm

Have you turned over a leaf? I thought I read in a previous post that you’d not read a book to the end, so well done.

I read too much, so if I narrowed it down, I would choose Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill.

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45 mahdi yusuf July 19, 2007 at 5:03 pm

i have read that trump book, all it motivates me to say is that trump is an asshole!

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46 Jack July 19, 2007 at 5:23 pm

Best in last few years…
Freakanomics – Amazing
Tipping Point
Good to Great
Great Game of Business (dated, but clearly shows how even Old Economy can move quickly with the right mindset).
Anything by Tom Peters
Same for Seth Godin
Jeffrey Gitomer, (but I am a sales person)
Rich Dad, Poor Dad – eye opener on “work” vs. “life”.
The Wealthy Barber – why you waste so much money in life.
Never Eat Alone – network, network, network
How To Become CEO –
More, lots more out there.

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47 Monty July 19, 2007 at 5:37 pm

Winning-Jack Welch
Good To Great – Jim Collins
Blink-Malcolm Gladwell

All these are great for when you are trying to get motivated to take your online business up to the next level.

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48 ToddW July 19, 2007 at 6:10 pm

Yep! That one is great too.

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49 dillsmack July 19, 2007 at 6:43 pm

Clearly you fail at reading in general.

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50 adamz July 19, 2007 at 7:04 pm

Shoe,

I have a great book if you do a lot of ringtone traffic.
The book is called Who Moved My Cheese.
Ive included a short video for those who either didnt get the book or are so hell bent on doin it all the hard way. Enjoy! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mhs0ejEKhgY

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51 Mark Hankins July 19, 2007 at 8:02 pm

I’ll second Freakanomics.

A series of books I haven’t seen mentioned are the Harvey MacKay books “How to Swim With the Sharks Without Being Eaten Alive”, “Sharkproof”, etc. The guy was in the envelope business … not a lot of margin, loads of competition, etc. … and he got rich at it.

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52 Vincent July 19, 2007 at 8:22 pm

“Think & Grow Rich”by Hill – timeless and wealth building beyond the monetary.
“The Razor’s Edge” – again, still relevant in the pursuit of deep desires.
“I Am That” – when I need my sensibilities shaken.

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53 Andrew Miller July 19, 2007 at 9:32 pm

Great list of books that I will definitely check out. Of those, I’ve only read “Rich Dad, Poor Dad” and it blew me away. The guy’s a little pompous, but if what he says is true he has every right to be.

Coincidentally, I just posted a YouMoz article on my top 5 books all search engine marketers should read. Would love your feedback.

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54 Don@AffiliateWatcher July 19, 2007 at 9:48 pm

I like Trumps and Kiyosaki’s book. I also finds Patton’s biography pretty inspirational.

I don’t read near as much as I used to. Seems like the Internet has ruined my reading skills, I now “skim” everything and I don’t seem to have the attention span any longer to sit and read a novel. I’ve been trying to finish the Lewis & Clark book for damn near a year!

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55 rmk July 19, 2007 at 9:58 pm

Just finished Four Hour Work Week, which left me really motivated to automate more of my business processes and analyze where my time and effort is really being spent.

I’ve read lots of Kiyosaki and am a big Rich Dad, Poor Dad fan aswell. I read at one point though that attempts to independently verify a lot of claims in the book had failed.

I found “Never Eat Alone” very motivational, too.

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56 Paul Bradish July 19, 2007 at 10:04 pm

Think and Grow Rich, The Millionaire Mind, 7 Highly Effective Habits

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57 Paul Bradish July 19, 2007 at 10:05 pm

I might have to check this one out – never heard of it!

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58 40Hourstogo July 19, 2007 at 10:05 pm

I like:

4 Hour Workweek
Rich Dad, Poor Dad

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59 Al Davies July 19, 2007 at 10:37 pm

Ditto on the Millionaire Mind. That’s a must read. Main pts i got from it … 1) be an entrepreneur and work in less competition markets 2) surround yourself with successful people 3) your spousal choice is one of your most important financial decisions

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60 Cygnus July 19, 2007 at 10:49 pm

I couldn’t stand Rich Dad, Poor Dad because if you pay attention, never actually says anything other than the usual rah rah Amway type speak. That said, I was suckered into buying and reading it, so the marketing surrounding the product was at least good.

What is inspiring to me? Autobiographies from people who have been seemingly lost in the sea changes of history, business biographies (rise and fall of RJR Nabisco, history of the Thinkpad, and Nuts! [Southwest] get thumbs up from me), and anything else non-fiction that is laying around. I try to juggle between reading a book on management/entrepreneurship, hard science/tech, and then a subject I know absolutely nothing about.

Cheers,
joe

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61 Ben July 19, 2007 at 10:49 pm

Rich Dad, Poor Dad was really mind blowing the first time I read it. After I finished for the first time I stopped a while and seriously reconsidered my priorities.

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62 Bruce July 19, 2007 at 10:55 pm

Good but heven’t read it?? That makes sense.
I have read two of his, they are good (quick and easy).
Also Tony Robbins. Need to take him with a grain of salt but has some good stuff in there with all the hype.

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63 Ron July 19, 2007 at 11:10 pm

Rich Dad Poor Dad was the first book that motivated me a few years ago. The book that motivates me now is The 4 Hour Workweek.

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64 Jack July 20, 2007 at 12:32 am

Cygnus – the best take away from Rich Dad Poor Dad was this – working in a “secure job” as a “loyal employee” is no guarantee of financial rewards or success. Rather, the wealth individuals are the ones who own and invest rather than earn and survive.
But you have a point – too much of Kiyosaki’s writings and interviews reek of MLM and Amway. In fact, I think he brags in one of his books about how good a certain MLM scheme was for him.

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65 Joe July 20, 2007 at 12:53 am

Absolutley. The whole Market Wizards series is awesome.

The biggest conclusion I picked up from them: You can make money doing ANYTHING, regardless of what the investment “experts” tell you.

I also noticed even some of them say “That doesn’t work”. Then you turn the page and see another guy doing what doesn’t work.

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66 Gina July 20, 2007 at 12:53 am

I think the “How to get Rich” book is a great and motivating book. It’s details and highlights are strong points to a business to consider.

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67 Ahmad Uzair July 20, 2007 at 12:56 am

Rich Dad Poor Dad is recommended book.I got so many good input from it.

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68 Mikael July 20, 2007 at 3:10 am

“The Richest Man in Babylon” by George S. Clason
“Wellness Revolution”, “The Next Millionaires” and “The Next Trillion” by Paul Zane Pilzer

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69 JeffPosaka July 20, 2007 at 3:29 am

This is a great book. I need to read it once a year to keep on track.

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70 JeffPosaka July 20, 2007 at 3:32 am

good question…

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71 JeffPosaka July 20, 2007 at 3:33 am

Good to Great was excellent

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72 Dennis Bjørn Petersen July 20, 2007 at 5:17 am

Two books by Flemming Østergaard – A danish business man who started from scratch and built up several businesses including two soccer clubs. (Lyngby and FC Copenhagen)

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73 William Profet :: OneJobTwoSalaries.com July 20, 2007 at 5:36 am

1. “Think and Grow Rich” by Napoleon Hill
2. “Unlimited Power” by Tony Robbins
3. “Awaken the Giant Within” by Tony Robbins
4. “4-Hour Workweek” by Tim Ferris
5. “Life 101″ by Peter McWilliams

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74 B. Durant July 20, 2007 at 6:26 am

The Bible, especially Proverbs for business motivation and a book called “Business by the Book – The complete guide of Biblical principles for the workplace” by Larry Burkett.

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75 ritchie July 20, 2007 at 6:52 am

I agree… very insightful book.

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76 ritchie July 20, 2007 at 6:52 am

Is a non-fiction or fiction?

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77 geckotales July 20, 2007 at 7:30 am

I like the how to get rich book by Wattles. The Science of Getting Rich –
It’s a good book even if a little dated.

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78 ashwin July 20, 2007 at 9:00 am

Yeah, i recently got that. It seems really interesting.

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79 ciken July 20, 2007 at 9:00 am

The Robert Kiyosaki book – Rich Dad Poor Dad is really motivate me..great book..i really mean it..

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80 Shannon July 20, 2007 at 9:21 am

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill is one of my favourite.

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81 Kunle July 20, 2007 at 10:13 am

Harry Potter series are quite motivating…..can wait for the latest one….;)

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82 trigatch4 July 20, 2007 at 10:59 am

48 Powers of Law

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83 trigatch4 July 20, 2007 at 10:59 am

Crap I mean the 48 Laws of Power! Hehe

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84 Blend July 20, 2007 at 12:10 pm

Think & Grow Rich by Napolean Hill And Rich Dad Poor Dad

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85 Deelip July 20, 2007 at 12:28 pm

Life 101 by Peter McWilliams is another book which motivates me.

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86 CatherineL July 20, 2007 at 1:36 pm

Oh I see – he listens the them. Funny how I never noticed that before but it stuck out like a sore thumb when I returned to the blog. I didn’t realise you could also get audio books on itunes.

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87 Jeremys July 20, 2007 at 2:28 pm

It’s funny that you mention Amway.

RD/PD got no traction initially in the marketplace, couldn’t even find a real publisher, until he introduced his book to several Amway “Diamonds” (the people at the top of the pyramid) who started promoting it to their underlings.

These Diamonds helped RD/RD push his book to all the hundreds of thousands of Amways downliners, until the book became a bestseller. Then, it went mainstream because of its “Bestseller” status.

After you read RD/PD, read this guy’s analysis:
http://www.johntreed.com/Kiyosaki.html

(No, I’m not JTR, nor do I get a commission)

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88 Kieran Cranley July 20, 2007 at 3:50 pm

This is fab read. Principals of making money never change regardless of century.

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89 John Pachecus July 20, 2007 at 4:32 pm

Rich Dad Poor Dad for me

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90 cooliojones July 20, 2007 at 6:11 pm

The Art of the Deal is like a benchmark in the industry. Definitely a must read.

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91 Paul. July 20, 2007 at 6:38 pm

I read The Economist. I haven’t read books since school. I guess I’m more focused on current stuff. Sometimes books seem ancient.

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92 Paul. July 20, 2007 at 6:39 pm

I read a little of this book. Cool idea.

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93 Paul. July 20, 2007 at 6:40 pm

7 highly effective habits had a lot of interesting thoughts.

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94 Joshua July 20, 2007 at 7:39 pm

I agree. I liked his concepts and perspectives, but found it was a bit repetitive.

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95 Simon Rain July 20, 2007 at 10:50 pm

I read Rich dad poor dad and thought it was a good book for motivating you on learning about business. He talks about how he made so much money with real estate deals and other ways but he never gets specific which at the end of the book, you barely know more but you have some sort of a strong urge to actually try to know about what he talks.

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96 Zac Johnson July 21, 2007 at 2:49 am

Just downloaded a couple of these through iTunes. Thanks!

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97 Victor July 21, 2007 at 4:21 am

Have to agree. “Good to Great” by Jim Collins is an excellent business book.

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98 Sam Breadstone July 21, 2007 at 5:18 am

Nice books Shoemoney.

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99 Favorite Browser July 21, 2007 at 6:21 am

I am currently reading Timothy Ferriss – The 4 Hour Workweek, it’s so n so.

My favorite ones are Andrew Carnegie – How to Think & Grow Rich and maybe How to Win Friends and Influence People.

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100 Johnny10g July 21, 2007 at 7:28 am

Obscurely, the best motivational book I’ve ever read was ‘Masters of Doom’ by David Kushner, chronicling the story of the Id software guys. Many other developers I’ve spoken to have also mentioned it. It won’t give you any business tips but it will inspire you.

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101 Mega Millions July 21, 2007 at 10:14 am

Not really a book but I like the Fisherman vs Businessman story.

In a nut shell: Don’t spend too long chasing dreams, climbing the wrong ladder, when you may already have all you need.

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102 RobMalon July 21, 2007 at 11:16 am

John Chow is giving out a copy of the 4 hour work week right now.

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103 Study Guide July 21, 2007 at 1:09 pm

Shoe… You read books?! Wow, I thought it was all experience and a little of the Shoemoney touch… Well I was wrong.

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104 Cygnus July 21, 2007 at 4:30 pm

Yeah, I ran into that Johntreed post a few years back when I had that similar funny taste in my mouth, regarding the veracity and necessity of what was written. I have encountered many excellent books on real estate, but they have been more technical in nature…as much analysis usually is.

Here in the Phoenix area the commercials for Kiyosaki’s australian friend have been popping up — another real winner (sic).

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105 Josh Mullineaux July 21, 2007 at 5:08 pm

Sounds like most people aggree that Rich Dad Poor Dad is an extremely motivating book. I have read it a couple of times and recommend it to friends, family and aquantences regularly. Puts real life wealth building at a tangable level. Great Post!

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106 TheHostHunter July 21, 2007 at 8:53 pm

I’ve read all of Trump’s books and I definitely agree that there are some gems in there. Don’t take it for scripture though, because he goes overboard in some places ;)

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107 Joeychgo July 21, 2007 at 8:57 pm

only if they are written on a T Shirt.. :)

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108 devtrench blog July 21, 2007 at 10:10 pm

That is definitely true, and holds true some of his other books as well.

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109 usha July 22, 2007 at 3:23 am

I too have read ‘Talent is Never Enough by John Maxwell. I could not rest till I have finished it.

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110 Fable July 22, 2007 at 6:44 am

Some good book recommendations. Thanks, shoemoney! I might just go ahead and check some of those out. :)

Steve

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111 Marc Eilbeck July 22, 2007 at 12:48 pm

I never read books mainly because i’m a slow reader and I havent got time. I didnt know you could get books on iTunes so I will be checking that out thanks!

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112 Daniel Vukadinovic July 22, 2007 at 2:38 pm

I’ve read Rich Dad Poor Dad and I recommend it to everybody. You can get great deal on Ebay.

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113 eTown Landlord July 22, 2007 at 9:02 pm

I’ve got how to get rich on my palm. I dust it off once and a while. when are they going to come out with a good ebook reader?

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114 rustyvz July 22, 2007 at 9:27 pm

Repetitive is good. I had an instructor during a lot of my MCSE training, that said “I repeat everything important three times: twice in the same tone of voice, and the last with emphasis.”

Sure enough, using that same trick in other things in life, I tend to remember better, as it sinks in more…

Yes, I did get tired of hearing the same thing over and over (audio books) but it reinforced better. Sort of like listening to ShoeMoney’s podcasts a few time. “Wow, I totally missed that the first time I listened!”

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115 Travel Notebook July 22, 2007 at 10:06 pm

He has a whole box full

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116 Travel Notebook July 22, 2007 at 10:07 pm

nice list. Amazon here I come

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117 Helen July 22, 2007 at 11:56 pm

Great list. I also like “How to Get Rich”. It’s a very insightful book. It’s just amazing how those books make a difference in our lives.

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118 Russ July 23, 2007 at 2:09 am

I recently read another book by R. Kiyosak about how to Retire Young and Retire Rich. It really struck me about how many different ways this can be accomplished. The main hurdle seems to be the mental barrier rather than the physical one.

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119 Paul. July 23, 2007 at 2:11 am

I’ve read it a little. Pretty good especially if it’s free.

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120 Income Blog July 23, 2007 at 6:54 am

I really like the Rich Dad Poor Dad Books and my favourite is “Rich Dad’s Before You Quit Your Job: 10 Real-Life Lessons Every Entrepreneur Should Know About Building a Multimillion-Dollar Business”.

I also really like “Loosing my Virginity” by Richard Branson. I like his sense of adventure etc.

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121 Anglewhiz July 23, 2007 at 8:43 am

My favorite motivational books include the following,

1.) Rich Dad Poor Dad
2.) The Richest Man in Bablyon (I could swear it was personally written for me)
3.) Rich DaD Guide To Investing
4.)Think & Grow Rich
5.) The Secret
6.)4 hour work week
7.)Seth Godin – The Dip,Permission Marketing
8.)How to win Friends and Influence people

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122 Study Guide July 23, 2007 at 8:53 am

Yea that sounds more like the Shoemoney we all know.

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123 Mike July 23, 2007 at 11:07 am

I just picked up rich dad/poor dad a couple weeks ago. I read it and honestly picked up some good information. I did a short review of it on my blog http://www.digitalbattlegrounds.com and have passed the information and book along to friends for them to read. Today i plan on picking up ‘The richest man in babylon’ to see if it lives up to all its hype.

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124 John's Blogging Mistakes July 23, 2007 at 11:13 am

yep, on this list “Think and Grow Rich” gets my vote too…that’s an old school motivational book, but it’s still awesome after all these years.

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125 John's Blogging Mistakes July 23, 2007 at 11:17 am

I agree – when will shoemoney write his own book? We should come up with titles to encourage him to write it…I say it should be called “Shoemoney – making money online the OG way”

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126 Nathan Hannig July 23, 2007 at 12:07 pm

Great list, I will check out a few. I personally cant think of any motivating books right now as I dont read much.

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127 The Dino July 23, 2007 at 2:17 pm

I dont have time to read many books so I am motivated by other things.

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128 ms danielle July 23, 2007 at 6:38 pm

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, by Steven Covey. Tipping Point is actually on my list of must-reads, and I’ll probably be reading that one next.

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129 Gecko Tales July 24, 2007 at 6:58 am

I need to read N. Hill’s Think and Grow Rich as well. I’ve been meaning to. Thanks for the reminder.

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130 John July 24, 2007 at 7:41 am

I could not stop myself thinking that’s a great way to sell books on Amazon, Shoemoney ;-) but to answer to the point, I find those books motivating even if not all are that well rated.

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131 damian July 24, 2007 at 6:48 pm

I have to take issue with the last one on your list there. “The Secret” is soooo full of crap. For anyone who doesn’t know about this “the secret” basically says you just have to want something and then it will come to you. Its a load of crap.

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132 Joeychgo July 25, 2007 at 12:35 pm

do people still buy books? :)

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133 Stuart Hannig July 25, 2007 at 2:58 pm

I’ll have to check out some of these books at the library. Thanks for the recommendations

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134 eTown Landlord July 25, 2007 at 8:36 pm

You should add “the longtail” to your list. I’m about 20% into it and it gives you a great look at how there are long tails everywhere. Even Flour has a long tail… Interesting read for sure.

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135 Daman July 26, 2007 at 7:45 am

I really enjoyed PsychoCybernetics by Maxwell Maltz…kind of in the vein of Think and Grow Rich.

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136 Michael Fultz July 29, 2007 at 1:44 am

Books? How about a magazine, like “Mad”!

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137 JarieLyn Robbins July 31, 2007 at 9:54 am

Your list sounds a lot like mine. Think and Grow Rich, Secrets of the Millionaire Mind, Rich Dad Poor Dad, Cash Flow Quadrant, Mentored By A Millionaire, and The Secret are all great books that have inspired me in some way. I would like to add to that list, The Instant Millionaire…..this is by far my favorite. Other books that have made an impact or changed my paradigm in some way include The Total Money Makeover By Dave Ramsey, Lessons From The Richest Man Who Ever Lived by Steven K. Scott, Twelve Pillars by Jim Rohn & Chris Widener, It’s Called Work For A Reason by Larry Winget, The Millionaire Next Door, Smart Couples Finish Rich and I am currently reading Rich Woman by Kim Kiyosaki. There are many more I’ve read and have on my list, but too many to put down here. The most successful people read at least one non fiction book a month. Really, they emerse themselves in books, audiotapes and seminars. Books and learning are my passion!!!!

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138 Chris August 3, 2007 at 7:05 am

The Tipping Point is definately one of my favourites..

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139 Nick Sullivan September 1, 2007 at 1:26 pm

Think and Grow Rich. I think every entrepreneur should read it.

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140 Nick Sullivan September 1, 2007 at 1:30 pm

I think every entrepreneur should read Think and Grow Rich. It’s still amazing and it was published… 1937.

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141 LeGo October 15, 2007 at 3:33 pm

Malcolm Gladwell seems to write interesting books. Blink was also interesting.

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142 ShoeMoney October 15, 2007 at 4:07 pm

I have been approached a few times by publishers to put one together… I would like to do one sometime (hardcopy not ebook).

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143 The Monetizer October 17, 2007 at 10:39 am

1)Don’t Worry, Make Money
2)Celestine Prophecy
3)Do You by Russel Simmons

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144 serge October 17, 2007 at 3:30 pm

I’m down for free stuff, but most people won’t respect something unless it costs them something. (blow a buck)

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145 marhgil October 18, 2007 at 2:24 am

this post made me decide to buy that Tipping Point book :)

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146 FreeScamMoneyMaker November 10, 2007 at 7:57 pm

i would like to read those books sometime in the future. my first inspiration book is “Think and Grow Rich” by Napoleon Hill. This book taught me who owns success and why successful people succeed. and a lot of his quote give me tips how to think and act the right way. But donald trump is the first person who inspire me to look for life success. before i only want simple life cause i thought richness would lead to so many bad things. but when start saw the “Apprentice” and how well donald trump speak and how he manage his biz and realise you can do many good things if you have a lot of money. so now i’m in a journey to do all that. success is a journey not a destination.

“Do not wait; the time will never be “just right”. Start where you stand, and work whatever tools you may have at your command, and better tools will be found as you go along.”
Napoleon Hill

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147 Dan Blystone November 12, 2007 at 11:03 pm

Reminiscences of a stock operator by Edwin Lef́aevre

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148 $1000 Dollar Project November 24, 2007 at 3:20 am

the art of the comeback – d trump, when youve lost the lot, its how you react that proves what type of guy you are

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149 San Diego SEO November 28, 2007 at 4:18 pm

My recommended reading: The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success by Deepak Chopra

Clearly we all want to be rich, who doesn’t right? First better yourself, your thoughts and the rest will follow. This book taught me how to NOT focus on things that don’t matter and rather focus on the things that do and for only $10 or so its worth getting.

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150 syaifudin zuhri November 30, 2007 at 4:28 am

Rich dad poor dad is great, and I like The richest man in the world also. may u get some secret ebook in http://www.book4buy.com free of charge thanks

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151 syaifudin zuhri November 30, 2007 at 4:30 am

trum is my favorit

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152 Nick December 12, 2007 at 8:17 pm

hmm, think I’ll have to buy them all and read, read, read!

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153 Chris December 13, 2007 at 2:22 am

I like Kiyosaki’s books too.

One book I read recently that was great is called Juicing the Orange, about creativity in business. Another classic that I recommend is Napoleon HIll.

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154 Affiliate Marketing Podcast December 16, 2007 at 3:22 am

A very inspirational book is Richard Branson’s Autobiography. It’s seriously like an action novel – it has everything: sex, romance, adventure, corporate corruption – best story I’ve ever read and it’s nonfiction.

~ Dave

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155 VacationGuy December 18, 2007 at 1:17 pm

I liked all the trump books – they read well – he is very motivating for me

I liked 4 hour work week – it opened my eyes to the whole work from any where movement –

E-myth mastery is one of them on my list

The One Minute Millionair

not as much motivating but eye opening /intresting – Bulls Eye Investing – parts of the book were a little over my head – but the information in it made me feel extremly confident when discussing investments

I always find it intresting that most professional men that are readers have read a lot of the same books – i’m a book junkie

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156 Gene December 27, 2007 at 11:27 pm

great book collection out there :)

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157 VacationGuy January 10, 2008 at 1:43 am

thank you I checked out this book on amazon

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158 RacerX January 27, 2008 at 1:30 am

Do the Amazon Press thing then. Like a vanity press, but they print to order in the style you want. If it works , then you invest in inventory.

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159 RacerX January 27, 2008 at 1:32 am

Freakanomics is a great read…

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160 domprofesor February 2, 2008 at 10:31 am

Nice collection Shoe

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161 Flash Gamer February 13, 2008 at 9:53 am

I’ve read think like a billionaire and I thought it was very insightful. A lot of books are just BS, but there are some good ones out there for business minded folks.

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162 Syed Balkhi February 19, 2008 at 11:51 am

book that motivates me is Aaron Walls SEO Book ;) that is the best guide lol

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163 Money Never Sleeps February 21, 2008 at 7:20 pm

Art of War, be greedy! Money Never Sleeps Pal!

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164 Chris February 22, 2008 at 6:48 pm

I like all of Robert Kiyosaki’s books–especially the one about what rich people teach their kids about investing. That is a very illuminating book. He’s a super successful guy and has very good advice about money that’s practical.

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165 jatt February 23, 2008 at 6:27 am

I like to read One read paperclip book. It was an enjoyable trip. Even my brother and sister loves it. I want to turn a blue paperclip into a house next time..

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166 CodeFreedom March 4, 2008 at 10:40 pm

“Would You Like Attitude With That?”, by Justin Herald, a young Australian entrepreneur. He smashes through a lot of fancy language and waffle and gets to the point. He is the creator of the “Attitude” brand in Australia.

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167 Gorilla Gripper April 15, 2008 at 9:49 am

I think you should be writing a book of your own!

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168 poor jokes August 27, 2008 at 4:13 pm

i havnt read any of them bt i was motivated by “you can win”by shiv kheda

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169 NotAFan March 20, 2009 at 2:47 pm

Eben Pagan directed me towards “think and grow rich”, and from there, I can’t stop reading self improvement and motivation books. Dale Carnegie’s “how to win friends and influence people” is one of my favorites.

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