We all need a motivational boost every now and then, but especially when it comes down to creativity. Creating can be tough and so an inspirational book or two can be just what you need when you’re in a bit of a rut. So, I’ve put together my absolute favourite non-fiction books that do just that.
Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert
I first read this by listening to the audiobook every day to and from work last Summer. Gilbert’s voice was exactly what I needed to inspire me each day and opened up my mind to thinking about creativity in a way I never had before. It may have become a bit cliché in the blogosphere to feature Big Magic, but it’s a staple for a reason!
The Multi-Hyphen Method by Emma Gannon
This blog literally wouldn’t exist if it weren’t for me reading this book. This was the most motivational book I read last year and prompted me to really focus on myself and think about my working life going forward. I think it’s easy for people in your twenties to get bogged down by their jobs and ‘careers’ so it was really refreshing to just take a step back and really assess what it means to work in the twenty-first century.
Wonderbook: The Illustrated Guide to Creating Imaginative Fiction by Jeff VanderMeer
This book is gorgeous. Every page oozes in beauty and inspiration. It is worth reading just for the illustrations, but beyond how well put together it is it is actually bursting with so much useful information and guidance from prominent writers and artists. If you want to write, to create, then this is the book for you.
Everybody Writes by Ann Handley
This is a must-read if you write and create content, especially in the social media realm. Handley breaks down everything you’ve literally ever wanted to know (or didn’t know you wanted to know) about writing. From ‘writing rules’ to tools and resources, this has it all.
Writers’ & Artists’ Yearbook
I borrowed the 2018 version from the library last year and became so invaluable I kept renewing it for months! So, with Christmas around the corner, it became clear it needed to go on my wishlist, and I was lucky enough to receive it. This guide is a beast and if you’re a creative of any kind, particularly those wanting to make money from it, this is worth its weight in gold. While it is updated every year, so it is worth reading the latest copy if you can; most libraries will have a copy!
The Working Woman’s Handbook by Phoebe Lovatt
Last but not least, this is another Christmas present well received. This is the ultimate one-stop guide book for women pursuing a creative career. What sets this apart from the rest is the excellent ‘handbook’ style which pushes you to really engage with what you’re reading and apply it to your own life. There’s a mix of useful information, interviews, exercises and more, so there’s something in there for everyone.
So, that’s my list of the best non-fiction books for when your creative needs a motivational boost.
Have you read any of these?
Are there any I haven’t included that you think deserve to be on the list?
