Books for Creatives

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The information we can learn by reading blogs in endless. You’ve got guides, how to tutorials, and inspiration posts galore. We all have our favorite websites and online authors. I can get totally lost reading post after post, filling my brain with facts and ideas to apply to my own businesses.

When your face eventually needs a break from the screen, but your mind still craves that knowledge, it’s time to sign offline and pick up a book.

Just in time for pool season, I’ve compiled a list of the three books every creative needs to read. Whether maker, blogger, or coach, these will inspire you and give you permission to think outside the box.

Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Liz Gilbert

Along with endless recommendations from other creatives, the beautiful cover of this book really led me to purchase. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint. I am bold enough to say that this book is life changing.

The author, Liz Gilbert, also wrote Eat, Pray, Love. In Big Magic, she shares her thoughts on creativity and how to find inspiration in our everyday lives. I love how she breaks down creativity into four parts: courage, enchantment, permission, and persistence. After reading this one, you will truly believe it the magic creativity and allow it to be a part of your life. It’s a really uplifting book, full of Liz’s personal stories that will leave you ready to jump into your next project full force.

I typically don’t buy hardback versions and wait for the paperback to release. I’m so glad I didn’t wait any longer on this book. I (obviously) cannot say enough wonderful things about it!

The paperback version is on Amazon for under $7, which is likely less than the cost of your lunch. Go buy it, now!

Books for Creatives

Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon

This book by artist Austin Kleon is a quick read, but so very thoughtful. Steal Like an Artist is based on the thought that nothing is original anymore. Kleon writes how to use existing ideas to create your own, new ones.

We are conditioned to relate stealing to committing a crime. Stealing like an artist is an inspired kind of theft that is necessary to growing our creative minds. It goes against the grain to imitate the work of others, but this book gives you permission to do just that!

Since it is such a short book, his writing is really to the point. I soaked up every word of this one and keep it handy to open when I need a brain break. It’s put together really nicely with fun typography, diagrams, photos, and quotes by artists from musicians to painters to writers.

This one is also available here for under $6. Check it out in combination with his other bestseller, Show Your Work!

#GIRLBOSS by Sophia Amoruso

Sophia Amoruso started with nothing and hustled her way to creating the multi-million dollar company, Nasty Gal. Her story is unique because she went against the grain and was somewhat of a rebel while building her business. Sophia is a little harsh, but that’s what makes her so great.

#GIRLBOSS is not only her story, but also full of advice to apply to your own business. From learning to fail to hiring employees to financial tips, this book is jam-packed with awesome information written in a really friendly format.

Because every creative needs to read up on improving her or his business brain, this book is definitely one to check out! There’s also a series coming out on Netflix this month based on #GIRLBOSS.

Purchase #GIRLBOSS here on Amazon for under $7!

 

I included these books because they’re all easy reads and truly motivating. All three of these titles will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired!

Did I miss a must-read book for creatives? Comment below and let me know!

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