15 Life Changing Biographies of Successful People

Here's a fact that will change your perspective about books forever: if they wrote it to make money, don't read it. If they wrote it to tell you a story that will inspire and motivate you, it's worth reading a thousand times. And this is what the following 15 books are all about. Pay attention, okay? Because these books will change your life forever. Here are 15 life-changing biographies of successful people.

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Number one: Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson. Walter Isaacson's "Steve Jobs" is one of the best biographies ever written, period. And it's a must-read for anyone passionate about the tech industry. So let's break it down without spoiling anything in case you're not convinced yet. The success story in Isaacson's book begins with a deep dive into Jobs's childhood and the critical moments that shaped him into the relentless entrepreneur that we knew him as.

The book covers Jobs's adoption, his interest in Zen Buddhism, and his early forays into technology with Steve Wozniak. The author then takes you through the roller coaster journey of Apple's success, starting from its humble beginnings in a garage to becoming a tech giant. The book talks about the pivotal moments in Apple's history, including the development of the Macintosh, the ousting of Jobs, and his triumphant return that led to the creation of the game-changing products like the iPod, iPhone, and iPad. Thanks to its innovations, at the peak of Jobs's life, Apple had become one of the most valuable and influential companies in the world, with a market capitalization of over $350 billion.

Now, more than 10 years after his passing, Apple is worth a staggering $2.61 trillion. There are a few key lessons from the book that we think you need to take home.

Vision and perseverance: Jobs's unwavering vision and commitment to excellence are integral to understanding his success. Isaacson's book showcases how Jobs's perseverance and ability to bounce back from failures shaped Apple's journey and his own legacy.

The intersection of technology and art: One of the most inspiring lessons from the book is the importance Jobs placed on the intersection of technology and art. Jobs's unique perspective on blending creativity, design, and technology led to the development of groundbreaking products that have transformed our world.

Leadership and team building: The book also highlights Jobs's leadership style, which, while polarizing, allowed him to inspire his team to achieve greatness. It emphasized the importance of building a team that shares your vision and is willing to push the boundaries.

Walter Isaacson's "Steve Jobs" is a must-read for anyone interested in the life and achievements of the Apple co-founder, a book that should be on the desk of any aspiring entrepreneur.

Number two: "Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future" by Ashley Vance. If there's one thing that sets Elon Musk apart from other entrepreneurs, it's his polarizing and fascinating personality. Let's take a quick look at what insights this book has to offer.

Early life and ambitions: So, Vance kicks off the biography with a detailed account of Musk's childhood in South Africa, his passion for technology, and his ambitious goals. We learn how Musk's early experiences and curiosity fueled his relentless strive to change the world. But also, some lesser-known aspects of his life. We're not going to spoil that because we know a lot of people are going to want to read this one.

PayPal, Tesla, and SpaceX: The book delves into Musk's numerous ventures, starting with the founding of Zip2 and the sale of PayPal. It follows his ambitious pursuits in creating Tesla, the groundbreaking electric car company, and SpaceX, which is revolutionizing space travel.

The struggles: Vance also took his time to showcase the many challenges Musk faced throughout his career. The book covers the near collapse of Tesla and SpaceX and how Musk's determination and personal investment helped to save both companies from the brink of failure.

The biography also offers a glimpse into Musk's personal life, his relationships, and the sacrifices he made in pursuit of his dreams. It's a reminder that with great success comes great sacrifice. So here are some key lessons from the book:

Risk-taking and perseverance: The biography highlights the importance of risk-taking and perseverance in achieving success. Musk's willingness to put everything on the line and his relentless drive to push boundaries have been critical in transforming industries and shaping the future.

This approach to risk-taking, his relentless drive, and his work ethic made Elon Musk the richest man in the world, with a net worth of over $340 billion in 2021. But that's a title he lost to Bernard Arnault after the recent correction in the tech industry.

Another key takeaway is the importance of sustainability and exploration. Vance's book emphasizes Musk's dedication to sustainable energy and space exploration. By focusing on these areas, Musk demonstrates that businesses, besides making profit, should be about making the world a better place, a fact that needs to stick in the mind of every entrepreneur.

Number three: Next up is "Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of Nike" by Phil Knight. "Shoe Dog" is a book about something we all love and wear every single day: sneakers. It offers a candid and personal account of the rise of the world's most iconic sportswear brand, Nike.

Of course, the book starts with Knight's humble beginnings, detailing his passion for running and the crazy idea of importing high-quality running shoes from Japan. Knight then takes the reader through Nike's incredible journey, from its early struggles to its emergence as a global sportswear powerhouse. The book explores the development of the iconic Swoosh logo, the company's groundbreaking marketing strategies, and its expansion into various sports markets around the world.

As for key lessons, here are some great ideas to take home:

The power of passion: One of the most inspiring takeaways from "Shoe Dog" is the power of passion. Knight's love for running and his belief in his idea laid the foundation for Nike's success. The book highlights the importance of pursuing what you're passionate about and letting that drive guide you.

And last but not least: building a winning team is a big part of any success story. You know what they say: if you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together. This memoir places a lot of focus on the importance of building a strong, dedicated team. Knight's story showcases how his ability to surround himself with talented and committed individuals played a crucial role in Nike's growth and success.

Number four: "Titan: The Life of John D. Rockefeller, Sr." by Ron Chernow. "Titan" is a gripping in-depth biography that transports you into the world of a true American legend. It's the story of John D. Rockefeller, Sr., the oil tycoon who forever changed the face of American industry and became the world's first billionaire. Chernow's masterful storytelling unravels the intricate tapestry of Rockefeller's life, revealing the man behind the immense fortune.

Born into modest circumstances, Rockefeller displayed an unwavering determination that catapulted him to the pinnacle of the business world. As the founder of Standard Oil, he pioneered innovations in the oil industry and ruthlessly crushed his competition. Yet, the same man was a devout Baptist and a philanthropist whose generosity transformed countless lives.

At the zenith of his wealth, John D. Rockefeller's net worth soared to an astounding $400 billion in today's currency, making him the richest person in modern history. Just to put that into perspective, it's almost four times the peak net worth of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos.

So what can you learn from this biography? Well, here are two key lessons that can be gleaned from this book:

First up: innovation drives progress. Rockefeller was a visionary who revolutionized the oil industry with groundbreaking ideas and business strategies. He introduced innovative practices such as vertical integration, which allowed Standard Oil to control every aspect of the production process, from drilling to distribution. This lesson highlights the importance of embracing innovation and forward thinking in both business and personal growth.

And the power of philanthropy: Despite his ruthless business practices, Rockefeller was a committed philanthropist. He donated vast sums of money to various causes such as education, public health, and scientific research. His philanthropic efforts have had a lasting impact on society and serve as a reminder of the importance of giving back and using one's resources to make a positive difference in the world.

Next step at number five: "Losing My Virginity" by Richard Branson. This book is the captivating and candid autobiography of Sir Richard Branson, the charismatic and adventurous entrepreneur who founded the Virgin Group. Through its pages, Branson chronicles his life, sharing his ups and downs, triumphs and failures that have shaped his remarkable career. He delves into his journey from a young dyslexic boy with a penchant for mischief to becoming the self-made billionaire he is today, one of the world's most influential business leaders.

At the peak of his wealth, Richard Branson's net worth was estimated to be around $5.1 billion. His vast fortune can be attributed to the numerous successful ventures under the Virgin brand, which spans across industries such as music, airlines, telecommunications, and even space travel.

So, two key lessons to take away from "Losing My Virginity" are:

Embrace calculated risks and seize opportunities. Branson's entrepreneurial spirit is characterized by his willingness to take calculated risks and capitalize on opportunities as they present themselves. Throughout his book, he emphasizes the importance of venturing into new territories, even if the outcome is uncertain. This mindset has played a crucial role in the growth and diversification of the Virgin brand, setting Branson apart as a business pioneer.

The other key takeaway is the power of persevering and learning from failure. Branson's journey is filled with setbacks and failures, but his unwavering determination and resilience have allowed him to learn from these experiences and ultimately succeed. He stresses the importance of embracing failure as a learning opportunity and emphasizes the value of persistence in the face of adversity. "Losing My Virginity" is not just a business memoir but an engaging and inspiring tale of a man who broke the rules, overcame obstacles, and built an empire from the ground up.

Number six: "The Snowball: Warren Buffett and The Business of Life" by Alice Schroeder. Now, this is a must-read for any finance guru out there. This book takes you on a journey from Buffett's humble beginnings in Omaha, Nebraska, to his meteoric rise as the CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, one of the world's largest and most successful conglomerates. Along the way, you'll learn about Buffett's investment strategies, his personal life, and the key decisions that helped him to build his fortune, from his early days as a paperboy to his billion-dollar deals with some of the biggest companies in the world. You'll get a firsthand look at how Buffett became the Oracle of Omaha and one of the wealthiest people on the planet, with a net worth of over $100 billion.

Now, as for the key lessons from the book:

First: invest only in what you understand. Buffett's investing philosophy is centered on investing in businesses and in industries that he fully understands. He avoids complex financial instruments and focuses on long-term investments and companies with strong fundamentals and competitive advantages.

And the other takeaway is to think long-term. Buffett's success is largely due to his ability to think long-term and ignore short-term market fluctuations. He believes in investing in companies that have a strong track record and a clear path forward, rather than trying to make a quick profit. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just getting started, this book is sure to both inspire and inform.

Number seven: "My Life and Work" by Henry Ford. "My Life and Work" is an inspiring autobiography written by the legendary industrialist and pioneer of the automobile industry, Henry Ford. Published in 1922, the book offers a glimpse into Ford's life, his unique business philosophy, and his vision for the future. Henry Ford's net worth was estimated to be around $200 billion at the peak of his career, adjusted for inflation, making him one of the wealthiest individuals in history.

So how did he manage to accomplish that? Well, here are two great ideas from his book, without spoiling anything:

Embrace efficiency and continuous improvement: Ford was a strong believer in the power of efficiency and the importance of continually improving production processes. He revolutionized the automobile industry by introducing the assembly line, which significantly reduced production time and costs, making cars more affordable for the masses. The Model T, Ford's most famous car, became an icon for its affordability and practicality. This lesson highlights the importance of constantly seeking ways to optimize and streamline our work, whether in business or our personal lives.

The other takeaway is the value of teamwork and fair treatment of employees. Henry Ford was a firm believer in the power of teamwork and the value of treating employees fairly. He introduced the $5 a day wage, which was double the average wage at the time. This move not only motivated his employees but also reduced turnover rates and increased productivity. Ford understood that a well-treated workforce is a key driver of business success, and this lesson reminds us of the importance of treating people with respect and creating a supportive work environment, which ultimately leads to collective success and growth.

Number eight: "The First Tycoon: The Epic Life of Cornelius Vanderbilt" by T.J. Stiles. Now, this is the most riveting and well-researched biography of Cornelius Vanderbilt, one of the most powerful and influential businessmen in American history. The book chronicles the remarkable journey of Vanderbilt, who built his empire through shrewd business tactics, relentless ambition, and innovative approaches to transportation.

At the peak of his wealth, Vanderbilt was worth an estimated $100 million, approximately $2.5 billion in today's money. He was the wealthiest man in the United States at the time of his death in 1877, having amassed his fortune through investments in steamboats, railroads, and other industries.

So some key lessons from the book are:

Be adaptable and embrace change. Vanderbilt's success can be attributed in part to his ability to adapt to changing circumstances and embrace innovation. Starting with steamboats, he understood the potential of this new technology and shifted his focus to railroads as they emerged as the dominant mode of transportation. By staying ahead of the curve and adapting to new opportunities, Vanderbilt was able to maintain a competitive edge in the business world.

The other takeaway is to develop strategic partnerships and alliances. Throughout his career, Vanderbilt collaborated with key business and political figures, leveraging their influence and expertise to expand his own empire. This approach enabled him to overcome challenges and obstacles in his path, ultimately leading to his unrivaled success in the transportation industry.

In "The First Tycoon," T.J. Stiles takes readers on an extraordinary journey through the life and accomplishments of Cornelius Vanderbilt, a self-made titan who played a pivotal role in shaping America's economic landscape. With an engaging narrative that weaves together the complex tapestry of his life, this book offers invaluable insights into the mind of a visionary entrepreneur and the key lessons that can be drawn from his unparalleled success.

Number nine: "Principles: Life and Work" by Ray Dalio. In case you're unaware of who Ray Dalio is, he's the founder of the world's largest hedge fund, Bridgewater Associates. In this book, Dalio shares the principles that guided him throughout his remarkable journey, transforming him from an ordinary middle-class kid to one of the wealthiest and most influential people in the world.

There are two key lessons in this book that definitely stand out:

The first is to embrace radical truth and radical transparency. Dalio emphasizes the importance of seeking the truth, no matter how brutal or uncomfortable it may be. He encourages readers to cultivate an environment of radical transparency, where everyone is open about their thoughts and concerns, leading to better decision-making and stronger relationships. This approach fosters a meritocratic culture that drives innovation, growth, and personal development.

The other takeaway is to understand the power of thoughtful disagreement. Dalio believes that one of the most valuable assets in problem-solving and decision-making is the ability to engage in thoughtful disagreement. By embracing diverse perspectives and intelligently debating conflicting ideas, we can reach a higher level of understanding and make better-informed decisions. This principle teaches us to value differing opinions and maintain an open mind, rather than getting defensive or sticking to our preconceived notions.

Imagine the thrill of unlocking the secrets to life of a wildly successful billionaire, like discovering a hidden treasure map. "Principles: Life and Work" is that treasure map, meticulously drawn by Ray Dalio himself, leading you through a labyrinth of wisdom, hard-won lessons, and powerful insights that will transform your life and work for the better.

Number ten: "The House That Jack Ma Built" by Duncan Clark. You know, Jack Ma is one of those entrepreneurs that you either respect and admire, or you simply joke about. Whatever your opinion may be, he built China's leading e-commerce giant, Alibaba. So from our perspective, hats off to this guy.

The book takes readers through the humble beginnings, trials, and triumphs of Jack Ma as he built a company that forever changed the landscape of global e-commerce and became a symbol of entrepreneurial success. In a nutshell, "The House That Jack Ma Built" is an exciting and captivating story of an underdog who rose to prominence, defying all odds to become one of the world's most influential entrepreneurs. And believe us, there were many challenges he faced along the way. Just give it a read, and you'll see what we're talking about.

Being rich and successful in China can be a real burden.

Number eleven: "The Autobiography of Andrew Carnegie" by Andrew Carnegie. Written by Andrew Carnegie himself, this autobiography offers an intimate glimpse into the mind of a man who rose from humble beginnings in Scotland to become the embodiment of the American dream.

The book takes readers on an enthralling journey from Carnegie's early years as a poor immigrant arriving in the U.S. through his hard work, determination, and shrewd business acumen that allowed him to amass a vast fortune in the steel industry.

As the tale unfolds, readers will discover the pivotal moments, key decisions, and powerful insights that shaped Carnegie's life and legacy. Beyond his business success, the autobiography delves into Carnegie's profound belief in the power of education, self-improvement, and philanthropy. The book highlights his unwavering commitment to giving back to society, including his groundbreaking efforts to create and fund public libraries, educational institutions, and various other causes aimed at uplifting the less fortunate.

Number twelve: "Sam Walton: Made in America" by Sam Walton and John Huey. "Sam Walton: Made in America" is a captivating and insightful book co-authored by Sam Walton, the visionary founder of Walmart, and John Huey, a renowned journalist. The book provides a fascinating glimpse into the life, values, and relentless drive of the man who built the world's largest retail empire, starting from a single store in a small Arkansas town.

Told in Walton's own words, the book takes readers on an exhilarating journey through his humble beginnings, entrepreneurial spirit, and innovative strategies that revolutionized the retail industry. As you flip through the pages, you'll uncover the secrets behind Walmart's meteoric rise, including Walton's unwavering commitment to low prices, exceptional customer service, and creating a culture of teamwork and shared success.

"Sam Walton: Made in America" not only narrates the story of Walmart's growth but also offers invaluable lessons and wisdom on leadership, management, and entrepreneurship. You'll learn about Walton's famous ten rules for building a business, which made Walmart a $400 billion-plus company. This book is a treasure trove of knowledge, insights, and motivation that can benefit anyone looking to achieve success in business or gain a deeper understanding of the man who changed the face of retail forever.

Number thirteen: "Softwar: An Intimate Portrait of Larry Ellison and Oracle" by Matthew Symons. Through in-depth interviews and unparalleled access to Ellison's inner circle, the book delves into the life and personality of the man behind the global software giant Oracle. It explains Ellison's humble beginnings, his unyielding drive for success, and his relentless pursuit of innovation that transformed Oracle into a dominant force in the tech industry.

The book sheds light on the intense rivalries and high-stakes battles that shaped the software industry, offering a unique and fascinating perspective on the tumultuous world of Silicon Valley. From Oracle's fierce competition with Microsoft and IBM to its groundbreaking innovations in database management systems, "Softwar" provides a captivating glimpse into the company's history and its visionary leader.

Number fourteen: "The Intel Trinity: How Robert Noyce, Gordon Moore, and Andy Grove Built the World's Most Important Company" by Michael S. Malone. This book takes things to a new level because it's not just about one person, but three: Robert Noyce, Gordon Moore, and Andy Grove, the three masterminds who co-founded Intel Corporation. As you delve into their story, you'll be transported to the early days of Silicon Valley, where the foundations of the digital age were being laid.

This exhilarating tale is not only about Intel's inception but also about the birth of the modern tech industry. Michael S. Malone expertly weaves the personal and professional stories of these three extraordinary individuals who, despite their differences, came together to build a company that transformed the world. Noyce, the visionary inventor of the microchip; Moore, the brilliant scientist who formulated the legendary Moore's Law; and Grove, the unstoppable force who steered Intel into unimaginable success.

Their combined genius laid the groundwork for the digital revolution. "The Intel Trinity" is a must-read for anyone who's ever wondered about how the world of computers, smartphones, and the internet came to be.

Number fifteen: "Walt Disney: The Triumph of the American Imagination" by Neal Gabler. Have you ever wondered what the story is behind the man who created our childhood favorite cartoons? There are very few people who had a more interesting story than Walt Disney. Gabler's book delves into the incredible story of Walt Disney, from his humble beginnings as a cartoonist and animator to his transformation as a multimedia visionary and entertainment mogul.

Throughout his meticulous research and interviews with Disney colleagues, friends, and family, Gabler paints a vivid portrait of the man behind the mouse. The book covers Disney's early years in Missouri, his struggles as an entrepreneur, the creation of iconic characters like Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck, the opening of Disneyland, and the many challenges and triumphs that came along the way. Gabler also dives into Disney's personal life, including his relationships with his wife and children and his complex personality.

And there you have it, Aluxers. These are what we consider to be some of the most life-changing biographies of successful people ever written. Now we're curious to know which book are you going to read first? We suggest you work your way through all of them, but there must be one that piqued your interest the most.

With this being said, it's time to wrap up this video. It's been a long one! If you found it valuable, don't forget to return the favor by tipping us with a like and a share. And as always, thanks for watching! If you'd like to learn some more, why not check out this video next?