7 Business Books You Can Read in an Afternoon

If you’ve read other posts on this site, you know that we are big fans of reading here. It’s no secret that reading can help you get ahead. In fact, some of the most successful people in this World state that they love to read. So why shouldn’t you?

Well for one, starting a new book can often times be overwhelming and time-consuming. There are a lot of business books out there that may take the average reader a week or more to read. The good news though is that there are several smaller (150 pages or less) books you can read in an afternoon that are PACKED with information. So I decided to compile a short list of some favorites below. Check them out!

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“As A Man Thinketh” by James Allen

Published in 1902, “As a Man Thinketh” is a World renowned classic. The knowledge jammed into this small book transcends time. The great motivational coach Tony Robbins often suggests this book to people because of how small and quick it is. He’s read it over a dozen times. I personally have read this gem 4 times. This is definitely a book you should have on your bookshelf and one you can read in an afternoon.

Within the book, James Allen talks about the principles of success and emphasizes that your life is completely in your control. He says that in order to be successful, you must first be successful in your own mind.

“The Greatest Salesman in the World” by OG Mandino

I had a good friend who told me I needed to read this and I’ll tell you what, I loved it! In “The Greatest Salesmen in The World“, Mandino offers several simple, yet powerful, truths in a very clear and compelling style. His parable takes place in ancient Jerusalem and is about a camel boy, Hafid, who’s master is a very wealthy trader. Hafid hopes to uncover his master’s key to success, and the trader guides him by passing on 10 scrolls filled with wisdom.

Why recommend this book as a business book? If it isn’t already obvious, to be great in business, you need to be a great salesman. If you can’t sell your ideas, product, or services, you won’t make it very far.

“Who Moved My Cheese?” by Spencer Johnson

“Who Moved My Cheese” is another instant classic. It first appeared in bookstores in 1998 and has continued to be a bestseller. The book has a unique story line involving two mice named Hem and Haw who live in a maze and must find a way to get to the cheese – which beings to change places every day. I have read this book a couple of times since 2015 and each time has taken me no more than an hour.

“The One Minute Manager” by Kenneth Blanchard and Spencer Johnson

“The One Minute Manager” is a guide for effective communication between bosses and their employees. The book talks about how managers can explain a task to employees within a minute, as well as take just 60 seconds to offer praise or criticism. Blanchard and Johnson also discuss how to break down barriers between managers and their employees.

*An updated version of this bestseller was recently released known as “The New One Minute Manager“.

“The Investment Answer” by Daniel C. Goldie and Gordon S. Murray

Goldie and Murray’s guide to investing, “The Investment Answer,” is under 100 pages and focuses on 5 decisions every investor has to make. These include whether to invest alone or with a professional; how to allocate among stocks, bonds, and cash; and when to buy or sell your assets. Even though both of the authors are experts in the financial industry, they keep this book brief and jargon-free so anyone can understand and implement the knowledge covered in this guide book.

“Rich Habits: The Daily Success Habits of Wealthy Individuals” by Thomas Corley

“Rich Habits” author Thomas Corley spent five years studying the lives of both rich people and poor people, and managed to segment out what he calls “rich habits” and “poverty habits,” meaning the tendencies of those who fit in each group. This short book outlines his findings and shows how even the simplest of habits can increase your chances of attaining great wealth.

“The Richest Man in Babylon” by George S. Clason

“The Richest Man in Babylon” was one of the first books I ever purchased when I first got introduced to personal development. It took me a while to crack open and read but when I finally did, I loved it. This bestselling book teaches you the principles of paying yourself first, living below your means, and investing in yourself, among other timeless financial lessons; all through a compelling series of parables that take place in the historical city of Babylon.

There is certainly a plethora of books that could be included on this list but at some point I had to end the post. You can find a full list of our recommended books over on the “Resources” page or by clicking right here.

Your turn! Have any recommendations for books that you can read in an afternoon?