I love to read. When I was growing up, I read mostly fiction. These days I read a lot more non-fiction; not because I don’t still love fiction, but because I’ve realized there’s something about a good real-life success story. This list of books is curated especially around the same theme as this blog: “What am I supposed to do now?” These inspirational reads will likely make you want to get up and do something, even if you’re still not sure what that something is.
Inspirational Reads for Your First (or Next) Book Club:
Big Magic
by Elizabeth Gilbert
This book is all about embracing creativity and not necessarily always in away directly related to art, music, writing, etc. It encourages readers to embrace creating something simply for the sake of it rather than to please an audience or make money. I absolutely adore Elizabeth Gilbert’s style and the way she makes big, complicated life thoughts seem normal and not quite so overwhelming. One of my favorite things about reading is when I come across an idea or statement that I realize I’ve thought before but could never explain or find a way to express.
To me, that’s the mark of a brilliant writer: when someone can capture a feeling we all have put it into words. Gilbert does this over and over while also diving into ideas you probably haven’t thought of but wonder why not. I recommend reading this book if you’ve ever thought you weren’t creative and wish you were; if you’ve ever wondered how to cultivate creativity; or if you’ve ever feared trying something despite your interest in it. Basically, if you’re a living, breathing person I recommend reading this book.
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck
by Mark Manson
This book has been making waves and for good reason. There’s a real solid chance you’ve already heard of it, but if for some reason you haven’t picked it up: do it right now. Ever wish someone would just speak blatantly about the worries, fears, and hangups we all have? “You don’t know what you’re doing,” Manson says. Finally, with that out in the open, an honest conversation can proceed about how none of us know what the f*ck we’re doin! And yet, that’s no reason not to try or to give up.
This book will simultaneously make you realize your limitations and empower you to keep moving. This book is both a reality check and a pep talk. It encourages its reader to suck it up, live without fear, and embrace both the good and the bad that life hurls our way. I really feel like I can’t speak enough praises for this book, so please, go pick it up. Basically, if you’re human, you should read this.
*I have not yet read the sequel, but I will!
Roadmap
from the Creators of Roadtrip Nation
The first line on the back of this book reads: “I have no idea what to do with my life.” Nope, I thought. I read on. Upon further reading of the blurb, I became increasingly worried that someone(s) had basically already done what I’m doing with this blog. Roadtrip Nation is a documentary TV series that interviews successful people from all over the world. “Roadtrippers” ask questions from these “leaders” in order to mine their knowledge and form a road map. The book reminds us that we’ve all wrestled with the unknown. It then teaches the reader about forging their own path despite the fear and uncertainty… Sounds like this blog right?!
I recommend reading this book if you’ve ever felt lost, unfulfilled, or unsure about what comes next. So basically, if you like this blog at all and can relate to the stories we share: you should read this book.
What do you suggest?
Alright I gotta know: what are your favorite inspirational reads? What made you feel a little less alone? What words have inspired you to chase your dreams? Which author have you found speaks with insight, intelligence, and humor?
Let us know what we should be reading in the comments below!