Thinking Like a Boss: Uncover and Overcome the Lies Holding You Back from Success

by Kate Crocco

With over 11 million female-owned businesses in the US today, more women than ever are taking the reins to create their own success. Maybe you feel the pull to start a business but deep down you're afraid that you don't have what it takes. Maybe you have a great idea but wonder if you're actually qualified to make it happen. Or maybe you want to expand your business, but you're worried about how it will affect your family. If that's you, it's time to start thinking like a boss.

In this practical and encouraging book, Kate Crocco exposes the 12 limiting beliefs that are holding you back from your true potential, such as

- I should have it all together and I don't
- I'm not ready or qualified to start
- I don't have enough time
- It's already been done before
- and more

With plenty of inspiring true stories and actionable steps you can take--starting now-- Thinking Like a Boss will help you turn your limiting beliefs into limitless opportunity.

Genres: Business, Nonfiction, Self Help

224 pages, Hardcover

First published February 18, 2020

Reviews

[Christin Duncan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was only my 2nd read of 2020 and I am certain that 349 days will do nothing to minimize the impact it has had on my life right out of the gate! Looking over the edge of a brand new decade, business launch, and a major change in life-seasons (hello, first-time parenthood!), Thinking Like a Boss delivered a timely shot of practical advice, compassionate insight, and tangible strategies for keeping my sanity while expanding my mindset and heart-space to accommodate my growth.

Kate's ability to make you feel both validated and truly SEEN while administering an exact dose of tough-love, grace, empowerment, and inspiration is a gift that will keep on giving. This book is a MUST READ for women everywhere...but especially if you're forging your own path in the world while juggling motherhood, relationships, entrepreneurship, etc.

[Kara Linaburg · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am my own boss.
I never thought about it that way before as an author, but because I make some money from my books, I am indeed my own boss. Lately I've become worn down by this title. I write at home and therefore my work never leaves me. It's a humbling and sometimes exhausting fact.
BUT Thinking Like a Boss gave me hope and a refreshing viewpoint of being your own boss. She reminds us before striving to work full time one day at home, the ones with two or three jobs, those with kids and those staying at home, that we CAN DO IT.
I loved her talking about keeping a schedule...or not and why both can be important depending on your lifestyle. She attacks the lies that can make you want to give up, sharing from her own personal experience. LIES: We should feel guilty for making money, we don't have the full support of our family or friends, or we simply don't have enough hours in the day.
I didn't think I would enjoy this book, as it first came across as a little dry. But the further I delved, the more I realized how relevant it was for me even as a small writer.
If you're looking for a book with ideas on how to move forward, this one doesn't give you many. Kate is here to defeat the lies holding you back and while she offers advice, like being ok with failing or promises there are indeed enough time in the day, she doesn't always offer solutions: only the encouragement to find them for ourselves.
While sometimes her advice is cliche and has been used before, her frank voice was a refreshing change. Recommended to anyone out there wanting to make money on their own be that a twenty year old or fifty year old wanting to try again...and again....and again....
Because Kate reminds us that we should NEVER give up.
Note: I got a free book from the publisher and this review is my own personal thoughts. I was not forced or entitled to write this.

[Sarah Deck · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an incredible book about believing in yourself and your ability to do hard things. Kate’s honesty, hard truths and practical tips really remind you that you aren’t alone and that you are more than capable of reaching your dreams!

[Denita Simmons · Rating 5 out of 5]

So far this book is great more than I expected. The struggle with mindset is so real and I love how she breaks it down... This was a great read. I’m in the process of reading it a 2nd time and have recruited some of my girlfriends to read with me. The book is well written and provides “gems” to be applied to everyday life and relationships not just business. The books motivational topics and truths help to propel you forward and begin to rethink the “lies” you've told yourself over the years. You will not be disappointed but will find inspiration. ~Denita Simmons

[Caroline · Rating 4 out of 5]

(I’m on the launch team for this book)
What a great read! I am on the verge of starting my own business, so this book came at the perfect time! Limiting beliefs hold us back, and are so easy to sneak into our thoughts. I appreciated this book, and know i will go back through it again as I start my own business.

[Aminata Coote · Rating 3 out of 5]

Kate Crocco also gave you some tips on how you could throw off the lies and get moving in the right direction. While some of the advice was good, it included a lot of visualization exercises and self-affirmation.

As this was published by Baker Books I expected more Jesus. Instead, the advice was mostly secular and didn’t seem to consider the very unique position occupied by Christian female entrepreneurs.

While some of the advice is viable, I was hoping the book would address some of the specific concerns I have as a Christian business owner. Questions like,

How do I market my product and still be Jesus to the world?
How do I resolve my queasiness towards charging for my services from a biblical perspective?
Quite frankly I wanted to find out what would Jesus do if he were a business person?
How should I approach my business from a biblical perspective?

Thinking Like A Boss did not address these concerns but you’ll still get value for your money. Kate Crocco comes alongside you like a motivational coach. She encourages you to let go of the lies that may be holding you back from accomplishing your dreams and creating the business you want.

Thinking Like A Boss is a great addition to your bookshelf if you need help to gain some traction in moving your business forward. I received an advanced reader’s copy from Baker Books as part of the blogger reads program; a positive review is not required.

[Theodene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not only did the title attract my attention, but the summary that I can actually be thinking like a boss sounds fantastic! You see, I’m a business owner myself and I have spent more time thinking about what else I could be doing with my life rather than actually working my business.

The author, Kate Crocco, shares the lies believed by many entrepreneurs out there and how to overcome them. It’s unfortunate that I find myself in many of these lies!!


While sometimes I wish I knew these before, other times I believe information such as this come exactly when we need it. The lies we fall into seem so normal and common, yet they are harming our personal and business growth all at the same time.

This book landed in my hands at just the right moment as I am trying to make a shift in my own business. I’m trying to shift from casual business owner to nose to the ground go getter. it is a blessing that this cake to be at this time as I really needed to know that the lies I’ve been living are just that, lies!

Thinking Like A Boss by Kate Crocco was provided complimentary for an honest review. May it reach your hands at just the right moment as it landed into mine.

[Marissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

An inspiring book every woman needs to read. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, an established business owner, or just a woman with big dreams - this book is for you!

[Margaret Rizzuto · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant book for understanding what's holding you back in business. Filled with wisdom, experiences and practical tools. Kate's easy conversational style make this a 'must have' next step.

[Annalise · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is amazing! Thinking Like A Boss by Kate Crocco is my first read in 2020 and it has really set the bar. Kate really motivates us to take control of OUR life. She shares 12 LIES we tell ourselves that hold us back from reaching our full potential. She shares stories from her own personal life so we don’t feel alone in this beautiful, chaotic world. We are a community of boss babes and each one of us has a special part to play together.

One of my favorite parts is she has you take pauses throughout the book to answer some really important and fun questions. It really forces you to dig deep into your life and mind to understand YOU better. Her book gets you thinking about what YOUR goals and intentions are and to focus on a positive mindset moving forward.

Highly recommend to any of you struggling with changes in your life and just need a positive, clear focus to get you back on track!

[Kristin McGurl · Rating 5 out of 5]

My first read of 2020 set the tone for the whole year!

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book changed my perspective dramatically. It illuminated how I was blocking myself from success and the excuses I was relying on to stay stuck. Because of this book, I was able to really look my greatest fears in the eye and realize they weren’t that scary after all. It was an essential element in me moving forward toward my biggest dreams. I can’t recommend it highly enough!

[Jill Rey · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thinking Like a Boss takes on 12 lies the author, and many starting their own business, have told themselves.  Each chapter is dedicated to a lie:

I need to have it all together

I’m not ready to start

I’m not qualified (I’m not smart enough, young enough or old enough to succeed)

I will never make enough money

Making money is greedy

I need to say yes to every opportunity that comes my way

I can’t possibly have a successful business and be a good mom

I need my friends and family’s understanding in order to be successful

I don’t have enough time

It’s already been done before

I am my business

I am not capable of handling success

All 12 lies start with a personal story and it’s influence on the author’s life.  Crocco, is a coach, training others to overcome these lies both in real life and through these pages.  By using this platform as an opportunity to share her experiences, lessons and insights with a wider audience she is ultimately successful in doing so.  And while this book wanes in engagement, the stories and “realness” within stand alone.

*Disclaimer: A review copy was provided by the publisher.  All opinions are my own.

[Ashley at Reading Themes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thinking Like a Boss: Uncover and Overcome the Lies Holding You Back from Success by Kate Crocco is a new non-fiction book. Even though I may not be the target audience for this book since I am currently a stay at home mom, I did come away encouraged. I did enjoy this book and would highly recommend anyone that runs their own company to read this book and learn ways to improve their companies. The author shares from her own life the struggles she faced to become her own boss and her strategies to think like a boss. Thanks to Baker Books for this review copy.

[Caitlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kate's book was my first read of 2020. It timed perfectly with where I was feeling going in not only a new year, but a new decade of my life. Do not be fooled into passing on this book because you do not own your own business, or aren't a boss. I'm not and I absolutely loved it. This is a book you can use to empower yourself to reach for or dream of your next life goal.

As a sales executive, I often think of my role as an independent employee or boss. After reading this book I took time to reflect on what I wanted next in my career. In doing so, I doubled down on my work and found myself hitting a promotion, getting a pay raise and hitting my sales number in the shortest amount of days, ever. (Thanks KATE!)

I plan on reading this once a year and I look forward to seeing my progress.

[Danielle Abbott · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am loving how Kate really us able to give us tangible tactics in order to overcome our excuses! Fast read, you can really feel Kate's energy which makes you want to keep reading!!!

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Your present self is always more capable than your past self, simply because you have learned through your challenges and experiences...You are qualified exactly where you are, embrace it.”

Grab your journal, favorite writing implements, and an open heart as you journey through Thinking Like a Boss. On the surface, the book may seem geared towards women starting a new business, however, I feel as if the content applies to a variety of life circumstances. I purchased this book in hopes of changing my mindset in my current career/job position. Kate guides you through the 12 lies she believes hold you back from experiencing success, with journaling exercises and personal stories weaved throughout. I found myself highlighting many portions of the text and experiencing multiple “aha” moments.

Again, while I am content in my current job position, I was feeling the need to spend some time working on how I view myself in the workplace. As I worked through the chapters, I was able to begin changing the way I was thinking during my workday. As a medical professional who provides habilitative/rehabilitative services to children and adults, I sometimes lack self-confidence, especially when a disorder area comes across my desk I don’t treat on a daily basis. However, with Kate’s words in my brain, I have been reminding myself that I am qualified to treat xyz disorder and He would not send a patient my way that I wouldn’t be able to handle. This way of thinking has been incredibly beneficial, especially as my treatment caseload has dramatically increased.

Most surprising to me was the ease in which I could apply some of the content to my daily life as a wife, mother, daughter, and friend. I also finished the book with ideas and thoughts for expanding my clinical practice and the tools to kick any of those lies that may crop up to the curb. Thinking Like a Boss will remain on my bookshelf for continued reference; a friend, if you will, to pick you up and whisper “You got this girlfriend.”

[Lola · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐ 5 Stars – Empowering, Honest, and Like a Pep Talk from Your Best Friend! ⭐

🔥 Thinking Like a Boss by Kate Crocco is an inspiring, truth-filled, and motivating guide for women looking to overcome self-doubt and step into their full potential. Her insights are refreshingly honest, easy to digest, and feel like having a deep conversation with a close girlfriend who just gets it.

Listening to this via Audible was the perfect choice. 🎧 Kate’s warm, encouraging tone makes the advice hit even harder, making it feel like she’s personally cheering you on. It’s not just another self-help book—it’s a mindset shift wrapped in real talk and actionable steps.

💡 Why This Book Is a Must-Read for Every Woman in Business & Life:

✔️ Debunks the biggest mindset myths that hold women back from success.
✔️ Encouraging and relatable—feels like a mentor guiding you through self-doubt.
✔️ Truthful and raw, without fluff or unrealistic expectations.
✔️ Actionable advice on shifting limiting beliefs and embracing confidence.
✔️ Great for female entrepreneurs, creatives, and women stepping into leadership roles.
✔️ A reminder that you are capable, worthy, and enough—no more second-guessing.

💀 And let’s talk about how real this book is. Kate doesn’t sugarcoat the struggles of overcoming imposter syndrome, self-doubt, and limiting beliefs. Instead, she gives you clear, practical strategies to push past them and think like a boss.

The chapters are short, engaging, and packed with wisdom, making it super easy to absorb and apply to daily life.

🔥 Final Verdict:

If you need a boost of confidence, a reminder of your worth, and a practical guide to breaking through fear and doubt, Thinking Like a Boss is a must-read.

💖 Would I recommend? Absolutely! This book is like a life and business coach in your pocket, ready to remind you that you’re capable of achieving everything you desire.

[Jessica Higgins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Are you looking to branch out into a successful business, but don’t feel like you can? Stop listening to those voices and check out this book!

Women are beginning to emerge as successful entrepreneurs all across the country and even the world. Many are feeling the pull to start their own business but are afraid that they don’t have what it takes. Maybe you as a reader fall into that category. Kate Crocco even felt that way and now her business focuses on coaching women to become successful entrepreneurs. If you feel like you can’t do this, then you have at least one lie in your life that is holding you back. Maybe more. Kate outlines twelve common lies that hold women (and many men) back from beginning this journey and steps to overcome them.

I can fully understand where the author is coming from in this book. While not a typical entrepreneur, I used to review with a community blog and circumstances eventually led to me beginning my own blog and when I started it out it was hard. I fell into several of these lies about deciding whether or not to keep it going. Years later, I’m so glad that I did. This book is a great resource even if you are just considering trying something new. I’m glad that Kate put these thoughts into print, and I love that she made it actionable. Having to write things down and make them into commitments really helps to hold yourself accountable.

I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.

[Robin]

Reading through the chapter titles with the list of lies we tell ourselves about why we are not ready for something, or why we haven't gotten where we want to be were exciting. I could relate to these lies and see where I may get some inspiration. I like that I can go to a chapter about an area I am struggling with and get to the source of what I am looking for without having to dig through other areas that I am not compelled to at any given point. That makes this book a great resource to keep on your shelf even after the first read through as it can be a reference and reminder when needed. These things we tell ourselves are not typically a one and done, they are things we need to remind ourselves over and over again.
I enjoyed the workbook style prompts inside the text that help to make each section truly relatable to each individual situation. Again, these are great tools to take a look at from time to time when you feel a struggle in certain areas. These are great resets for your mind.
I felt unfortunately uninspired when I read through these pages. I found myself skimming through a bit. I love the headers and the main topics discussed but didn't find the depth I was looking for, This book felt like it would be better suited to someone just starting out in the business creation rather than someone that has been working for a while. I did think there were good nuggets of information sprinkled throughout the book for everyone, but overall it just wasn't what I really needed.

[Genevieve Bergman · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am always on the lookout for a new leadership book. It helps me sharpen my skills and approach. I always seem to find something of use in every book of quality that I have read. Thinking Like a Boss started out being a "what did I get myself into" kind of book.

Kate Crocco writes Thinking Like a Boss for women. I may have missed that somewhere in the description when the review copy was sent out. I was afraid that I might be a little under-qualified for the suggestions in this book. I am glad to say that I was so wrong.

It may seem on the surface that Crocco is writing to women. She refers to the ladies reading this book. But anyone who is honest about their emotions of fear and doubt, worries of being a fraud or failure, or thinking you can't do the thing you really want to do needs to read this book. Nothing is earth-shatteringly new or unique. Having Crocco tell her story while repeating the fear-busting concepts we have all heard before breathes a different life into the reader. Before the end of the book, I began to take some of the suggestions to heart and stepped out into things that fear was holding me back from.

If you are male, female, or transgendered, this is going to allow you find your Why. It is going to offer avenues to explore to overcome, or at least detour around, any barriers that are created that get in the way of pursuing what you really want.

[Vicky Lashenko · Rating 5 out of 5]

A few of the things that attracted me to this book is that Kate is a wife, a mom of two, an entrepreneur and a psychotherapist. She is not only writing from experience - but also from a professional background. There are many fluffy self help books out there and this isn’t one of them. Kate’s understanding of our mind chatter and limiting beliefs is SO HELPFUL. Not only that - she actually knows how to help you overcome them! I also love her attitude - she’s so kind, thoughtful, and very humble. I don’t know her personally - in fact I’ve never heard of her before - but she comes across that way from the book and it feels very genuine. As an entrepreneur - I love the hustle - and Kate has such a gentle way of communicating balance and to give time to what and who are important to us. For me, I want to be a successful entrepreneur - but never at the expense of my family and I feel very supported in that through this book. Thank you SO MUCH Kate, for pouring your heart and soul into this beautiful book!!! You inspire me ❤️

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I won this book as part of a Goodreads Giveaway.

I am generally not someone who purchases self-help or motivational books, so my comments are based on my experiences with this title and not how it compares to other books in the genre.

I was interested in this book b/c I've taken on a leadership role at my job and was looking for a resource to help me navigate some challenges.

Overall, I thought this book was very helpful. Each chapter is concise and there are activities to go with each chapter to guide you through the process. A lot of the theories and activities seem to be based on creating a growth mindset. As an educator, this is also something that I work on with my students.

The only drawback to this book is that it completely oriented to becoming more successful in the business world. Most of the time, the advice and activities were easily applicable to multiple situations, but I personally could have done with less emphasis on having the courage to start up and run my own business.

[Megan Kelly Dias · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this book. It's honest, heartfelt, inspiring and practical all at the same time.

It's so easy to keep yourself small, to come from a place of fear, and to never embrace the greatness inside of you. But, if you are ready to change your mindset, take ownership of your business and your life... or even if you're struggling and think that could never happen for you... do yourself a favor and check this book out. It walks you through so many of the lies and limiting beliefs we all have and helps you shift through them with actionable steps.

Here’s the thing, your mindset is a CRUCIAL part of building a business and a life that thrives. It’s something that takes consistent work and is constantly evolving. As I've learned, if you think you don't need to work on your mindset... You probably need to work on your mindset. With insight and practical tips and practices you can apply as you read, this book is a great place to start... it's like your own mindset coach in your pocket!

[Kate Wytrwal · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is amazing. It's like Kate has been living in my head, analyzing my own thoughts and putting them to paper with practical tips to overcome the lies that have been holding me back. I've followed Kate for some time, and have purchased a few of her courses and everything she does is magic, so when I heard about her book, I knew I needed to have it and pre-ordered months in advance. When I got my hands on it, I couldn't put it down. In her first chapter she had already called out to me, with her first lie about having it all together. Every new chapter I felt like she was diving deeper and deeper into what it was that was holding me back- all the lies I've been telling myself. She is incredible and I can't wait to finish this book (and probably reread, highlight and share her amazing insights) and recommend to everyone. Go get this book if you are struggling with taking charge of your dreams!

[Michelle Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pure Gold! Every wanna be entrepreneur, existing entrepreneur and just plain motivated female should read this book. I am a work in progress Empowerment Coach who is currently in a coaching program to learn the ‘how to’s’ of the self business world - I have a stack of books that I am supposed to be reading that is assigned through my class and I heard about this book on a friends podcast. I thought I’d get it, thumb through it and set it on top of my stack of books that need to be read - WRONG! It is like Kate climbed in my brain and read exactly what I was thinking. I am 100% engaged in this book and that is no small feat for me since I have squirrels running through my brain at all times. Lots of highlighting and notes, this book will be used over and over and over. And much of her information can be used for practical application when coaching. Quick, easy read. You will love this book. Thank you Kate!

[Lyndsey & Kevin McCormick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed reading this book! Each of it's 12 chapters only takes about 10 minutes to read, so I was finished with it in a short two weeks; it's a great companion for a morning (or evening) journaling session.

I was encouraged by Kate's personal story being woven through the advice she gives, and I LOVED how many nuggets of gold I took away from the book! I must have written down at least two dozen short phrases in my journal that I will return to as I try to turn some of these mindset shifts into lifestyle practices.

In addition, the resources on Kate's website and social media pages go above and beyond what a normal self-help author does. I can't wait to try the "Book Club in a Box" with some of my friends, the Spotify playlists make great mediation companions, and find myself always checking her Instagram page for updates and further TLAB wisdom! Great stuff, can't wait to see what she puts out next...

[Alexandra Baule · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simply put: Kate’s words are a love letter from her soul to yours. Each of the lies she describes in Thinking Like a Boss have undoubtedly been ones that I have told myself (and what you may have too) but I never knew why. With her own vivacious vulnerability, entrepreneurial experiences and background rooted in psychotherapy, the interactive format of Kate’s book allows the reader to dive deeply into understanding what has held them back in business, in life, and in being the most authentically aligned version of themselves.

Whether you are just brainstorming or a budding entrepreneur, climbing your corporate jungle gym or an influential CEO— Kate’s book will speak to your inner boss and give them the power to shine through whatever icky self-doubt has amounted. I preordered several copies of this book to share with friends because the best gift you can give is one of confidence.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

At first I was skeptical of this book. Another book to tell you how to break free from something to move forward? BUT!! After starting I have not been able to put it down. With each chapter she bring fresh insight on how to really overcome any of the lies that hold you back. My favorite so far is the lie that you are not qualified enough to do x, y, or z, etc. For YEARS, I have really felt that way, and when I read that chapter I felt I wasn't alone and that maybe whatever I wanted to do - not just for business- really was possible. I'm qualified now and no amount of anything is going to make me start. I'm stopping myself, but no more. I'm starting to plan out a brighter future based on me now. <3 Get it, you won't regret it. It's practicality and simple truths will make a big impact on how you feel about where you're at right now.

[Erica Leman · Rating 5 out of 5]

After working with Kate one on one for a few years as my own business, mindset, and confidence coach, I KNEW I had to snag my copy of her new book! In it, she dives into and unpacks the top 12 lies that can severely hinder, not only female business owners, but also women in general. After unpacking these lies, she gives you tips and mantras to overcome them so that you leave each chapter feeling hopeful and refreshed. I found the money mindset chapters to be the most impactful, as that can be such a block for us as women to accept that we can both serve well AND make a decent salary.

There was so much truth in this book, I found myself highlighting multiple passages on multiple pages. Just 100% obsessed!