Books for Creative Blocks

Over the past several months, I’ve had quite a few business and creative blocks.  I’ve always been a voracious reader, so the number one way I get out of a creative or business block is to READ. Books with other people’s work and advice are my favorites for giving me the biggest kick in the pants.

 Here’s my favorite books for getting out of your creative ruts:  

Steal Like an Artist A very quick and easy read, with short chapters, and great “nuggets” of advice and information. As a fan of hand drawn elements and infographics, I liked the “sprinkling” of those images throughout the pages to reinforce the lessons.

Self-Promotion for the Creative Person This was actually a textbook from one of my college courses. A little bit more analytical than I usually like, but it also has a lot of useful information. There’s a reason I’ve held onto this since I graduated almost 5 years ago.

Creative, Inc Full of the ” basics” of starting up your own creative business for those who are, how should I say this… less “business” minded? (*raises hand tentatively) this book was full of simple tips and was very well designed. Always a win in my book!

The Art of Non-Conformity I’m currently in the middle of this, but enjoying it a lot.  Full of real life examples, “The Art of Non Conformity” promises a lot in the title: “Set your own rules, live the life you want, and change the world.” I’m excited to put some of the ideas and concepts into action.

Young House Love Inspiration is everywhere– I find a lot of mine in home decor and Sherry and John have amazing style and fantastic DIY ideas included in their book. Plus, I’m reminded of how they got such a small start as blogger and now have books and a crazy successful blog. Just thinking about THAT is inspirational.

A Beautiful Mess Photo Idea Book Elsie and Emma never fail to inspire me. Just like Sherry and John of Young House Love, the A Beautiful Mess team’s story is inspirational… not to mention all of the pretty photos and ideas contained in the Photo Idea Book. Every time I look through it, I get a new idea and “jumping off point” for a blog post or photo.

52 Scrapbooking Challenges This is Elsie Flannigan Larson’s first book, and it’s still one of my favorites. While the style of scrapbooking is slightly dated now, it’s still doodley and fun and full of inspiration.

oh! Also, eCourses! 

While not physical books, I’ve been enjoying several business/inspirational eCourses that have been giving me some creative jump starts: 
BUILD eCourse from Amy of Lemon and Raspberry: I’m SUCH a huge fan of Amy and the BUILD eCourse– I go through it several times a year, just for new ideas and inspiration.  Amy is raising the price on this soon, so get on board now and also get access to two live events she’s doing just for BUILD students.  Not ready for the full course? If you sign up for the email list, you get FREE weekly emails to help you BUILD your business. 

SPARK from Kam of Campfire Chic: I have more to say on this soon, but this 30-day email eCourse is an AMAZING jump start for those who have lost the blogging or creating SPARK. 😉 I love it!

 

While you may not be in a creative rut at the moment, be sure to have these books and resources on your “shelves” for grabbing when you do reach the moment when you’re staring a blank screen and have no idea where to go! They help!

Do you have any books, ecourses, or blogs that help you get out of a creative or business rut? Please share in the comments!