In the digital age, finding the time to read a book, particularly non-fiction books that tend to be preachy, can be tedious, especially if you have new movies, shows, or reels fighting for your attention every time you have a spare moment. But the joy of reading a book is, honestly, unmatched. And if the book, in some shape or form, adds some value to your life, then I would consider that time well spent.
That’s why we hunted down short and concise nonfiction books that distill essential wisdom into digestible insights that are immediately applicable in everyday life. They offer practical strategies and mindset shifts that can lead to tangible results and personal growth. Moreover, these books are often authored by individuals who have real-world experience and success, making their advice relatable and authentic.
You don’t need to get a specialised course certificate or an MBA degree to learn about building a business, success, finance, and life. These short reads can be a direct path to acquiring valuable knowledge and achieving success. And the best part is that you can finish them in one sitting.
7 short non-fiction books that will teach you about success, finance and life more than any MBA course
1. The Dip: A Little Book That Teaches You When to Quit (and When to Stick) by Seth Godin
Published in 2007, this short book is a concise guide on strategic quitting and perseverance. Godin introduces the concept of the “dip” as a temporary setback that separates winners from losers. He advises readers on identifying worthwhile endeavours worth pushing through versus those that are dead ends. This book encourages thoughtful evaluation of goals and investments of time and resources, offering valuable insights on when to persist and when to redirect efforts for optimal success.
2. The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason
Although this short book was first published in 1926, it’s a timeless classic that imparts essential financial wisdom through engaging parables set in ancient Babylon. This book presents simple yet profound principles of wealth-building and financial success, emphasising the importance of saving, investing, and managing money wisely. Through stories of characters like Arkad, the richest man in Babylon, you will learn practical lessons such as paying yourself first, avoiding debt, and making money work for you. Clason’s teachings are presented in a straightforward and accessible manner, making this book a valuable resource for anyone seeking to achieve financial security and prosperity.
3. As a Man Thinketh by James Allen
