5 Must-Reads for Latinx Entrepreneurs
As the first-gen daughter of Mexican immigrants, I’ve spent my life being resourceful. Learning from every book, podcast, and expert I can find to reach my goals. I think my resourcefulness is a big part of what gave me an entrepreneurial spirit: I know I can do anything I set my mind to, and am always ready to find the resources I need, or make the ones I see are missing.
Learning from others is an essential part of personal growth and development, whether you learn best from meaningful conversations with people, shows and media, or even from your own journaling. If you’re into reading, I’ve got some recommendations to help broaden your perspective, challenge your assumptions, and help you gain new insights on entrepreneurship. Here’s a round-up of my favorite books on business and life as a Latinx entrepreneur:
Jefa in Training: The Business Startup Toolkit for Entrepreneurial and Creative Women
By: Ashley K. Stoyanov Ojeda
This is a combo book and toolkit designed by Latinas, for Latinas, which focuses on entrepreneurship and the Latina experience in business. It’s a conversational guide with worksheets, and some content in Spanglish, that helps you learn how to define your brand, draft an LLC operating agreement, and even overcome imposter syndrome.
First-Gen, NextGen: A Guide to Thriving as a First-Generation Latinx in the Next Generation of the American Workforce
By: Victoria F. Banuelos
While this book focuses on the first five years of a young professional's career, it really captures the unique experience of being Latinx in the American workplace. The author shares interviews with Latinx executive leaders, activists, and business owners, and makes you feel understood while providing actionable advice for how to make the work environment a better place now and in the future.
El circulo virtuoso: Lo que buscas ya está en ti; libéralo
By: Gaby Natale
There is a Spanish and English version of this book. The Virtuous Circle is very interesting – it discusses why some people who are born into seemingly privileged lives don’t always reach their full potential, whereas those born with challenges can excel at their goals. After spending a decade interviewing personalities from culture, sports, and science, the author shares her take on the beliefs and habits of highly successful people. This one is great for helping you identify your potential and purpose, and provides tips on how to take your first steps towards a successful future.
Be a Disruptor: Streetwise Lessons for Entrepreneurs―from the Mob to Mandates
By: Stratis Morfogen
This book comes from successful NYC restaurateur Stratis Morfogen and is an edgy guide for entrepreneurs looking for real-world advice on how to succeed in cutthroat industries. The author shares his experiences in the mob-influenced NYC restaurant world, lessons on finding business opportunities in any situation, starting ventures during tumultuous times, and having grit. There is some profanity throughout, but if you’re cool with cursing, it’s got great, street-smart insights on business.
Self Made: Becoming Empowered, Self-Reliant, and Rich in Every Way
By: Nely Galán
This book is also offered in English and Spanish. It was so successful it was actually made into a web series and community led by its author, who was the first Latina President of Entertainment for a U.S. television network (Telemundo). It’s inspirational and touches on being self-made, financially-independent, and abundant. If you’re in the market for practical financial and business advice (and ambitious role models), I’d highly recommend it.
No matter your history, or the story you’re writing today, by being open to learning from others, you can expand your horizons, become an empathetic leader, and a more well-rounded individual. So, keep reading, listening, and learning - it's one of the best investments you can make in yourself and your business.
The featured image used in this article is by Toa Heftiba.
