There’s nothing like a good book to really inspire you and push you when you feel like there’s no reason to keep going. There are moments when you feel like giving up and just trying to pass on your dreams and I’m here to tell you to stop and buy one of these books — if you have one of these books, reread that book and get out of the negative thought phase. Everything isn’t going to go perfect and these stories either reflect that or they find a way to help you in life along the way of your journey.
I enjoy reading and I’ve talked about it in previous posts. I really pull inspiration from the stories that I read and I believe that there are situations I can apply to my own life. People always ask me what books I’m currently reading and what I would recommend and these are my picks especially for women in my age group. We’re young and half the time, we’re still trying to figure out this adult thing which is why these books are perfect. You have the trials and tribulations of getting to the dream job/end goal, overcoming difference and standing out, career advice for those starting out or wanting to advance/change their career path. These books all touch base on one of these subjects and I will recommend them whenever I get the chance.
Book talk, let’s begin. Elevate and encourage yourself, let’s do this.
#GirlBoss
I feel like this is probably on everyone’s list but #GirlBoss can really inspire you. I read it on a flight to Arizona (4 hours too long) and was really into it until I took my plane nap. For one, Sophia Amoruso gives everyone a look in her life and the journey to get to where she is. It’s not all rainbows and the sunshine out there, there’s struggle and she talks about it. She got real about everything which is why this book is on my list to suggest to people. You might get down and about when it comes to certain things in life but sometimes you just have to really put in some hard work and not expect instant rewards. The story goes beyond Sophia though, it goes to the point where you have to take risks and put things on the line. It’s okay to fail and it’s okay to achieve. You have to put up with the low before reaching the high. You have to put in work and Sophia is preaching that. I’m preaching that now after reading that book and reminding myself that everything I risk isn’t going to end in success. Take life seriously but don’t take it too seriously.
“Each time you make a good decision or do something nice or take care of yourself; each time you show up to work and work hard and do your best at everything you can do, you’re planting seeds for a life that you can only hope will grow beyond your wildest dreams. Take care of the little things—even the little things that you hate—and treat them as promises to your own future. Soon you’ll see that fortune favors the bold who get shit done.”
Life In Motion
Misty Copeland’s story is inspiring and one where she’s left marks in history as the first African-American principal ballerina at the American Ballet Theatre. It’s a story about conquering doubt and believing in one’s self. Misty overcame a lot to get to where she is today and I think that’s remarkable. She didn’t let people’s doubts and opinions about her hold her back. We live in a time where people express their opinions in person and all over social media, a place where people are trolled and it’s refreshing to have something around that lets you know you can overcome it. There were many things that could have held her back but they didn’t, she proved the doubters wrong. Misty Copeland is a phenomenal ballerina and role model. She defied the odds set against her and you can, too. Don’t let anyone’s thoughts hold you back from what you know you can accomplish.
“All you can do is be your best self. I’m representing more than just me. I think everyone should be like that.”
Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear
Where do I even start? As a creative, this book really puts things into perspective for me. I’m sure those that have read this book can relate. It’s broken down into six sections and Courage really set in me. I really was feeling it when Elizabeth Gilbert talked about Fear and having the courage to let it be there but not take over. Her analogy was letting fear along for the ride but fear wasn’t allowed to be a backseat driver really resonated with me because I know for me, I let fear take over at times so this really stuck with me. She talks about ideas and taking the chance rather than letting them get away because ideas come and go. Elizabeth talks about doubt and handling rejection, which is key for many of us that are just getting started with our career or a passion. She even talks about how women hold themselves to a standard of perfection, need I go on? This book will inspire and give you the push you might need.
“Let people have their opinions. More than that–let people love their opinions, just as you and I are in love with ours. But never delude yourself into believing that you require someone else’s blessing (or even their comprehension) in order to make your own creative work. And always remember that people’s judgments about you are none of your business.”
Leave Your Mark
Last but not least, Aliza Licht’s Leave Your Mark will always have a spot in my heart. This book really helped me when I was applying for positions in the marketing and social media world. I took tips and I really put my portfolio together. I know I can’t give all my credit to a book but it inspired me. Why? Aliza talks about getting experience when you have no experience. She talked about taking on roles that weren’t necessarily what she wanted to do in life but would give her access to the role she truly wanted and could offer help from time to time. She gives tips to women when it comes down to asking for a raise or promotion — which she did and she made a point to never brag about yourself in a review especially when you’re bragging about things that are in your career description and part of your salary. The best part was her analogy about taking your career to the next level as different layers of an onion.
“Life isn’t a dress rehearsal; you have to go for it. But it takes hard work and dedication and you might not always get what you think you deserve. It doesn’t matter. Handle yourself with professionalism and remember that in business, your personal brand is your greatest asset. Mind your reputation and the rest will come.”
Are these four books worth it? Yes. I will say I don’t regret investing in a good book especially a book that can push me when I need the push. There are times where you feel like giving up and I have those moments but pulling out one of these books and flipping to a page where I’ve saved for future reference is really helpful. These books will encourage and push you, I hope. I hope you get a lot out of these books like myself. These are my favorite picks and I’ll continue to recommend them.
What books do you find inspirational or a good recommendation? Share below!
Great recommendations! I already had Leave Your Mark on my to-read list but added the rest of these as well. There’s nothing better than an inspirational book when you’re going through a career slump or just feeling uninspired.