Whenever I get into a rut I pull one of the books below to get me back on track. Creativity is like catching lighting in a bottle. But it can be caught. These are my favorite books when I need a creative kick start. If you don't have time to read check out Audible, listen to a book on the go.
The Creative Habit; Twyla Tharp
Creativity is not a character trait, or something divined by the powers that be – it’s the combination of effort and desire. It is a process. And I promise you this is true. Tharp paints a clear-headed portrait that matches my direct experience where creativity is within everyone’s reach.
The War of Art: Break Through Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles; Steven Pressfield
One of the best books on creativity ever written. If this doesn’t get you fighting for your inner creativity…well then…you probably didn’t read it. If you’re like…damn near everyone on the planet…and feel that annoying resistance from your inner critic, this book is medicine. Hush those demons, hurdle those roadblocks. This is tough love that will help you tap into your true creative potential.
Creativity, Inc.: Overcoming the Unseen Forces That Stand in the Way of True Inspiration; Ed Catmull and Amy Wallace
This book is a treat that sits at the intersection of creativity and commerce. From the co-founder of Pixar, Catmull gives us unique insights into removing the blockers that harm creativity from within companies and organizations. I read this after taking over as CEO of CreativeLive, as it helps me cultivate creativity at CL – an organization of now more than 100 people. It’s an insanely practical book that challenges the “typical” work environment and teaches us to replace it with an environment that unlocks ideation and innovation. If you lead a team – in your own company or another – this book is gold.
Art & Fear: Observations on the Perils (And Reward) of Artmaking; David Bales and Ted Orland
A book by artists for artists, this book gave me courage and helped my shut out those stupid voices in my head (yes – they’re in my head, too). An amazing reminder that great art is made by ordinary people like you and me. Think you don’t have a chance because you’re not Ansel Adams – think again. That’s just those trolls in your brain that have ZERO basis in reality. Beat them with ease. Win at making art.