As business owners, we all hit highs and low. To stay inspired, read other people’s success stories to find out how they overcome difficulties and navigate the world of business. These 5 books are worth reading and should become part of your library now.
The War of Art by Steven Pressfield
This book is all about overcoming everything that stands in the way of you being successful. And that everything is really just one thing: Resistance.
“The War of Art” will give you a virtual kick in the pants when you need it most – I can only read a couple of pages at one time before I feel compelled to get up and start working. “The War of Art” brings you face-to-face with everything standing in the way of your success and makes you deal with it. I have to thank Jen Cushman for buying me a copy when I was in one of my darkest moments as a business owner. If you are struggling with dread of the day-to-day business tasks or can’t get to the next step in your success, this is a must-read.
Grow Your Handmade Business by Kari Chapin
Kari has authored several amazing books on the handmade industry and handmade business and she is a sweet lady to boot! This book is for everyone who already has a handmade business and knows what they are making. Kari shares real world advice from other leaders in the handmade space as well as practical strategies you can use to grow your business right now. The hand-drawn illustrations throughout the book are an inspiring bonus!
Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook by Gary Vaynerchuck
Gary Vaynerchuck is incredibly respected as a leader in the marketing world and as the founder of WineLibrary.com. This book reads like a playbook of how to use social media, including real world examples of what works and what doesn’t. There are also practical tips you can use immediately to help improve your company’s game online. If social media had a Bible, “Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook” would be it.
Ignore Everybody – And 39 Other Keys to Creativity by Hugh MacLeod
This book is a quick and easy read, and it’s quite entertaining at that. It was recommended to me by another artist, Jen Goode, when I was struggling to focus on my work and ignore the peanut gallery. I don’t agree with everything Hugh says, but the book makes you take a hard look at how seriously you take yourself and why you create in the first place. The book is also filled with hilarious cartoons from his site, GapingVoid.com.
Steal Like An Artist by Austin Kleon
If you are struggling with your creativity and originality, Austin is here to help. This fun book dispels all the misconception you’ve heard about being creative. It’s a quick read and the illustrations and photos make the pages fly by. You’ll feel better about how you create with all of Austin’s back-to-basics type reminders.
All of these books can be found in your local bookstore or online. Your local library may even have some on hand that you can borrow for free! When you’re done, consider paying it forward by passing your copies on to another struggling business owner.
By: Jennifer Priest from Hydrangea Hippo
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