6 Essential Books Every Aspiring Writer/Creative/Entrepreneur Should Read for Career Success
I’m often approached by aspiring writers/creatives/entrepreneurs looking for advice on how to get started. In conversation I’ll tick off the books that inspired me—this post puts all those books in one place
These six books that have personally shaped my career and provided invaluable insights into the art and business of writing/creation. They’re part of my life/career toolkit and if I could go back in time and give my 18 year old self any advice, it would be to read these books and put the ideas into practice ASAP.
Whether you're seeking inspiration, practical advice, or a deeper understanding of the writing/creation process, these books are sure to help you level up and get moving on wherever it is you want to go.
The book that kicks all your excuses to the curb: The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles by Steven Pressfield
The book that gives behind the scenes access to one of the world’s most prolific writers: On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft (Reissue) by Stephen King
The book that helps you build a practice for a lifetime of creativity and creation: The Artist's Way: 30th Anniversary Edition (Anniversary) by Julia Cameron
The book that provides technical skills to becoming a great writer: Writing Tools (10th Anniversary Edition): 55 Essential Strategies for Every Writer by Roy Peter Clark
The book that inspires creativity into your daily life: The Creative ACT: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin
The book that reminds you not to give up: The Greatest Salesman in the World by Og Mandino (spoiler alert - this one has some religious themes which I didn’t realize until the end but I still think the general themes/concepts stand).
I’m big on saving money and using the library to do so. However, if you do decide to purchase any of these books, please be advised I use affiliate links and might receive a percentage of $ from the sale.