For Subscribers

'Illusions' and 'Anxiety' This month's books can help you avoid myths and channel your stress.

By Mark Henricks

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

In The Illusions of Entrepreneurship (Yale University Press, $26), business scholar Scott Shane debunks popular theories with research-based answers to questions such as why people start businesses, which industries are most popular for startups and what are the most common characteristics of the typical entrepreneur. Among the revelations: There are far more entrepreneurs than most people realize, and it doesn't take much money to start a business--the typical American business gets underway with less than $25,000. Perhaps most surprising is Shane's assertion that commercial banks are several times more likely than friends and family to lend startups money.

In Just Enough Anxiety (Portfolio, $24.95), psychologist and CEO of Healthy Companies International Robert H. Rosen shows how a little anxiety helps us concentrate, learn, relate to others, be creative and deliver better results. Entrepreneurs facing uncertainty already know that some anxiety is unavoidable. But how much is enough? Rosen says the right amount drives you forward without causing you to resist, give up or try to control events. One key to hitting the right balance is embracing change rather than avoiding or fearing it.

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Editor's Pick

Business Ideas

70 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2025

We put together a list of the best, most profitable small business ideas for entrepreneurs to pursue in 2025.

Starting a Business

The Next Chapter of Basketball? Why This New League Is Betting Big on 1v1 Hoops

The Next Chapter is a premier 1v1 league turning streetball culture into a marketable, competitive sport. With unique players and pay-per-view events, the league aims to become a billion-dollar basketball business.

Starting a Business

This 'Dream' Side Hustle Out-Earned Her Corporate Salary in 2 Years — Now It's a $2 Million Business

Here's the exact blueprint she used to leave her W2 job behind and step fully into entrepreneurship.

Business News

Deloitte Is Reimbursing Employees Up to $1,000 — For Buying Lego Sets

Each Deloitte employee can spend up to $1,000 on items to improve their well-being.

Leadership

5 CEOs Sat Down for a Candid Conversation — What They Revealed Could Change Your Entire Perspective on Leadership

These five CEOs get brutally honest about leadership, pressure and letting go of control.