Resources

Psychology / Mental Health

The Language of Emotions” by Karla McLaren

Emotions are raw information, and understanding what they are telling you will completely change the way you relate to yourself and others.

This book goes into the depths of not only emotions like anger and fear, but depression and suicidal urges as well. It is revolutionary in that it reframes these “negative emotions” into messages that have vital – and even life-saving – purposes for each of us.


The Drama of the Gifted Child” by Alice Miller

Inside each of us exists a child, a true self, that was not truly seen and loved by our providers growing up. This leads to an unconscious emotional need to bury the true self deep in our unconscious minds and to replace it with a “false self,” or persona, to survive in our world.

The consequences of this can be devastating for our lives.


Skin In The Game” by Nassim Nicholas Taleb

Pay attention not to what people say but to what they do, and to how much of their necks they are putting on the line. Without skin in the game, there are no real consequences, and without real consequences, there is no real courage.

 

Creativity and Leadership

The Practice: Shipping Creative Work” by Seth Godin

You become creative when you ship work. Fall in love with the act of practicing, not the output. Creativity is leadership. This book breathed understanding onto many fears and doubts that plague me as a creator without encouraging me to settle.

Business / Finance / Entrepreneurship

The Freelancer’s Bible” by Sara Horowitz

This must-have Bible for freelancers covers the practicalities and challenges of being a freelancer with “everything you need to know about managing and growing your business.” It’s a reference I keep going back to when I don’t understand something about the world of freelancing.


Perennial Seller: The Art of Making and Marketing Work That Lasts” by Ryan Holiday’

What do the most successful artists, creators and marketers have in common? They all know how to create work that lasts. This book goes into the four fundamental structures that lead to a successful creative career: Creative Process, Positioning, Marketing, and Platform.


Reinventing You: Define Your Brand, Imagine Your Future” by Dorie Clark

Not where you want to be professionally? This book will serve as your roadmap to creating the career you truly desire. It comes full of tools, insights and stories that will help you figure out how to transition out of your current job or career into one that is more rewarding and fulfilling.


Entrepreneurial You: Monetize Your Expertise, Create Multiple Income Streams, and Thrive” by Dorie Clark

You may have great ideas, but do they sell? This book goes into the skills and know-how needed to monetize your expertise and capitalize on your best ideas. The end goal is an independent lifestyle that allows you to thrive professionally without needing anyone’s approval.

Building a StoryBrand: Clarify Your Message So Customers Will Listen” by Donald Miller

Clarify your message so customers will listen. The customer is the center of your story, not you. Keep your brand message simple, relevant and repeatable.