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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
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
#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
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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This is a much-needed blog post for me – thank you! Always looking for new books to read, and looks like I have a couple new ones on my list!
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Glad you found it helpful, Joanne! These are all relatively quick reads, so definitely add them to your summer reading list!
Wow, great suggestions. Unstoppable books to read!
Thanks, Rhonda! Glad you found this list helpful.
I have been meaning to read Big Magic. I’ve been trying so hard to read Girl Boss but it just didn’t hold my attention. I ready often but something about it just didn’t strike a cord, ironically, I’ve managed to watch much of the series already but I am a huge fan of Britt Robertson who plays the lead in the show. I am currently reading Boss B!t#h and am loving it. I also really enjoyed She Means business by Carrie Green. I’ll have to look into steal like an artist.
I know people have a lot of mixed reactions to #Girlboss. I’m about halfway through the series and am loving it! Britt is great. If I could pick one book to recommend it would definitely be Big Magic, definitely add it to your summer reading list! 🙂 Thanks for the suggestions, I’ll have to check those out!
Wonderful suggestions! All very affordable, too, which is great for those starting from “zero”.
Thanks Biblio! Yes, not only affordable but also pretty quick and easy reads… gotta keep things manageable as a new entrepreneur! 😉
Definitely noted for my library.
Been looking for my next read, in love with book lists! Thank you
Oh great timing! Enjoy : )