The Hard Thing About Hard Things
Ben Horowitz · 2014
Lindy Score
12 yrs
Age
6
Endorsers
Why it endured
Ben Horowitz's unflinching account of building and running startups through near-death experiences. Unlike most business books, it offers no formulas — just hard-won wisdom from someone who has faced layoffs, board revolts, and existential crises. The most honest book about startup leadership ever written.
What they're saying
6 people recommend this book
“Horowitz writes honestly about what leadership actually requires. No platitudes — just the brutal reality of keeping a company alive through impossible situations.”
Interview
“The most honest book about the psychological reality of building companies. Horowitz describes what no one else is willing to say out loud.”
“Horowitz doesn't sugarcoat the horror of being a CEO. This is the most honest tech memoir I've read.”
Interview
“Ben's book is the most honest account of what being a CEO is actually like.”
A Year of Books
“Horowitz captures the psychological reality of leadership that no business school prepares you for.”
Blog
“Response to 'Are there any books you haven't mentioned that you feel would make your reading list?'”