Knowledge is power.
In order to succeed in our endeavors we need to set a true foundation for ourselves. The question here and for many however is how to actually set that foundation for yourself.
For many schooling is their foundation, which is of course is a great route to take. For others it’s experience, learning as they experience the many things that come their way. And for many like myself, we have chosen to set a foundation for ourselves through self-taught knowledge.
Reading has taught me so much in my lifetime. I have learned so many skills solely from picking up a book, reading it and studying the knowledge that lies on each page as I flip through them. From self-help, to biographies, instructional how-to’s, success stories… my list could go on and on.
“Reading is a way for me to expand my mind, open my eyes, and fill up my heart”. –Oprah
Though I have learned and lived the advice and structure of many books, today I wanted to share some of the awesome creative books that are filled with success stories from artists and designers just like you and I who had a goal and didn’t stop working until they accomplished it. These books are filled with knowledge that can help each and every handmade artist in our community to achieve what they have set out to attain.
The knowledge lies in each page as we flip through them; we need only to open ourselves to it.
Here are just some of the many books that have helped me on my creative journey as a handmade designer and entrepreneur.
Creative Confidence: Unleashing the Creative Potential Within Us All
Doubting yourself or your creativity? The Kelley brothers share insight and great exercises to help build your creative mind. This book will truly take your personal creativity to the next level.
Born For This: How to Find the Work You Were Meant to Do
Let’s just say getting your dream job will seem less of a dream and more of a reality after reading this book. A book filled with practical advice and truly helping you to find what you are really meant to do in this lifetime. A must read.
Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative
This is a great book that will give you tons of insight on being your own authentic artist. It will also give you the courage you need as an artist, helping you with finding your own direction and true potential.
This book also has a journal that is sold separately. I would definitely recommend it as well!!
Creative, Inc.: The Ultimate Guide to Running a Successful Freelance Business
This book is great for those who need REAL business advice and some how-to guidance in the creative field. It’s very motivational while offering the friendly advice we all need to hear sometimes when running our own businesses.
Daring Greatly: How the Courage to be Vulnerable Transforms the Way we Live, Love, Parent and Lead
I’m sure the title of this book probably gives away what it’s about but that doesn’t mean it should go unread if you feel this has nothing to do with you. You can trust me when I say it has EVERYTHING to do with you and we all need to read a book like this. This book explains vulnerability as a way of living a “wholehearted life”, allowing ourselves to be open and vulnerable opens us to levels of creativity, connection, and joy that we would never otherwise be able to find. Another must read for sure!
#Girlboss
I love, love, loveeee this book! Sophia Amoruso’s life story is incredible and it’s absolutely amazing to read how she went from having nothing and living a true life’s struggle to having EVERYTHING in such an incredibly small amount of time. This book will truly motivate every muscle in your body. It’s filled with great advice and encouragement.
I Am That Girl: How to Speak Your Truth, Discover Your Purpose, and #bethatgirl
Yes, another “girl” book, but in all honesty anyone can read these books. They offer general life advice we can all benefit from.
I Am That Girl will help you to think for yourself, gather who you truly are and will help you find your OWN place in this world where you can stand tall with confidence knowing that you are where you are supposed to be.
The plus here, I actually went to high school with the Co-Founder and CEO Emily Greener. She’s an amazing person, full of personality, strength and love. A great person to know in your lifetime for sure.
Do Cool Sh*T: Quit Your Day Job, Start Your Own Business, and Live Happily Ever After
If your looking for that push to do something that you want to do, this book is definitely for you. Miki gives you the fundamentals and the “raw” advice we all need to hear sometimes to get sh*t done and accomplish what we set out to do.
The Creative Habit: Learn it and Use it For Life
I love how straightforward and to the point this book is. Sometimes we just don’t have time for the “fluffy” stuff. We need the hardcore details on what we need to learn and how we can use those skills. This book will give you just that. Filled with different exercises to further you along in your discovery, this book offers practicality, which I love. Tap into making more time for creativity with Tharp’s awesome advice!
Great reads to inspire creativity, mind and spirit.
Happy reading!