Books That Are Helping Me In My Creative Practice

I am a not a fast reader…yet. I find it difficult to read fiction in particular (even though I love fiction) because my mind tends to wander. Informational books on the other hand are much easier for me to read because my intention is to learn. I’ve been loving physical books over blogs because it allows me to be off my screen where I am constantly distracted. Here are a few books that I have been loving recently.

Disclaimer: There are affiliate links in this post that if used help support the work I am doing as a full-time artist. This does not affect the cost to you, but does give me a little comission if you use the links.

Steal Like An Artist (Austin Kleon): this book has been teaching me how to create more meaningful work and draw inspiration from anywhere.

Keep Going (Austin Kleon): I often feel defeated when I am trying to build an art career. This book really helps put things in perspective.

Show Your Work (Austin Kleon): this is the last one from this author, but these three books complement each other very well and they are each easily digestible. Show your work is helping me embrace more of the process of making my art and how to share it.

Austin Kleon has these books available in a bundle on Amazon.

Atomic Habits (James Clear): I am listening to this one on Audible, and it is worth a read if you want a clear method for creating positive habits and getting rid of old habits. My favorite part so far is the idea of setting clear intention for a habit (I will do x at x time in x place) and habit stacking to help with making your habit cues.

What's Best Next (Matt Perman): This was a recommended read from a friend that was so insightful. I often have a hard time knowing what I should be doing in any given moment. Art, blog, marketing, product, chores...the list is endless. This helped me get a grasp on how to make decisions about what I should be doing and not stress. You can get the book here.