I am often asked “what book would you recommend for…”. There is one book that stands out as absolutely pivotal to understanding tactical success in business: The E-Myth Revisited by Michael E. Gerber. This slim volume contains wisdom that every business owner needs to internalize. Perhaps one of the best reads for this purpose ever written. Bar none.
When I first read it, I was already nearly a decade in. It completely shifted my mindset. Gerber’s core argument is that most small businesses are started by technicians – people skilled at a specific craft who enjoy hands-on work. But being good at baking pies, fixing cars, or writing code doesn’t translate to running a successful business. The technician’s focus is working IN the business, not ON the business; a mantra exclaimed in networking groups.
To make that crucial leap from technician to entrepreneur requires a new way of thinking. You must build systems that allow the business to operate whether you’re there or not. You need to work ON the business – strategizing and systematizing. Failing to make this shift is why most small businesses struggle. The founder gets caught in technical work, never elevating to the entrepreneurial perspective required to scale.
This resonated deeply. Like many founders, my background was technical. I had fallen in love with my craft and was excited to build around it. But I was drowning in the daily grind, working long hours yet not seeing growth. Reading The E-Myth was a shot in the ass. I needed to drastically change my role to escape stagnation.
I’ve integrated Gerber’s advice religiously. I block time weekly to work ON the business. I spearhead initiatives that benefit the company, not a client. I’ve analyzed operations, looking to systematize. I documented processes, developed training, and hired carefully to delegate technical work. Slowly, I shifted into the entrepreneurial perspective, building a team to work IN the business.
The core idea is making yourself unnecessary in daily operations. Your role is designing systems that enable consistent value delivery without you. It’s not about scale but being involved in what lights you on fire while delegating the rest.
The E-Myth taught me to define roles: Entrepreneur, Manager, and Technician. Most founders struggle trying to be all three. By delineating these roles and hiring well, you ensure the right skills target the right priorities.
This book is about psychology and mindset – working ON yourself, not just the business. I took this to heart, investing in growth through books, coaching and masterminds. Looking back, I can draw a straight line from our success to these principles.
For any business owner, I can’t recommend it highly enough. Read it, then read it again. Keep it close and revisit yearly. The principles are simple but profound. Putting them into practice isn’t easy, but it’s essential for building a company that truly thrives. Our growth is a testament to their power.
