Vacation is over... Let's go get some money!

Homework.

A commonly used phrase, “student of the game” refers to the idea of someone so entrenched with her field that she literally studies it.  This applies to everything – music, science and sports.  So if you plan to own your own business, I suggest you grab your backpack and Trapper Keeper because its time to go back to school.

Aside from the obvious benefit of knowledge, taking the time to learn about your craft shows that you have a healthy respect for it.  Humility is the foundation of success and no matter how talented you are, there is a documented history that needs to be understood and recognized.   Without knowing the history, one’s talent will eventually get wasted making easily avoidable mistakes.

Also, success requires one to form relationships and being a student will allow others to take you seriously.  Could you imagine someone telling you they play the guitar but have never heard of Jimi Hendrix?  You would dismiss them instantly.  So if you’re thinking of building a company to franchise, you better know who Ray Kroc is and how Subway handles its operations or you’ll find that people will stop returning your calls.

When it comes to being a “student” of business, the formula is simple: Read.

Learning how other entrepreneurs, dealt with their trials and tribulations is invaluable.  Many times I’ve faced a problem with New City and found it to be familiar because I read about it a half a dozen times.  It helps psychologically knowing that others have faced similar challenges and solutions were available.

There is no “wrong” book to read and while there are definitely classics out there, just about every entrepreneur has their personal favorites.  The best way to figure out what to start reading first is to get a referral from a colleague or mentor or start with a basic Google search.  Here’s some suggestions to get you started:

For those who need that motivational-pep talk to get you going:

Rich Rad, Poor Dad – Robert Kiyosaki

For those who want to mix their pom poms with a “how-to” manual:

The Four Hour Workweek – Tim Ferriss

A Million Bucks by 30 – Alan Corey

The E-Myth Revisited – Michael E. Gerber

A must have for up-to-date stories and information on business and entreprenurship:

Entreprenur Magazine

INC Magazine

Just in case you don’t like to read books (lol)…

CNBC Documentaries – they do a great job giving you insight on some of the top companies, industries and business leaders.

There are plenty more that I could list, but you can’t go wrong with these selections.  If you’re serious and you hit the books, I’m positive that you’ll be one step closer to building the company of your dreams.

Class is in session.