6 Books Every Aspiring Creative Should Be Reading

I once read, "A creative life is a healthy life."

It's an interesting statement. How can so many lives be classified into one generalization? It has been said that we all are born with creativity, but many of us lose sight of this as we get old older. For some, being a creative and truly living life as such comes naturally. For others, it is something that comes with practice, belief, and hard work. On the outside looking in, a creative life may seem to be more chaotic than healthy, but to each his own.

As a creative, I don't necessarily feel as though I'm always living my best creative life, but I'm constantly working on it. Sure, I'm creative when it comes to certain things pertaining to art, music, or writing but I feel like I'm lacking when it comes to truly letting my creativity flow freely. For now, I'll stick with my ability to express myself through clever wordplay, lighting a few candles, and vibing to Erykah Badu. (She's as creative as creative gets, and she speaks to my soul.)

Those self-care practices are amazing ways to fuel the spirit and alleviate any mental blocks, but undoubtedly the most effective way to free your mind is through reading. As creative, you cannot create if you do not read. Not only is reading fundamental and therapeutic, it takes your mind to unparalleled heights.

Whether you're a creative or simply in need of a good read, below are six books that promise to challenge you, aid in increased productivity, as well as overall personal development.

'Twenties Unscripted' by Tyece Wilkins

This book is a collection of short essays in which the author, Tyece Wilkins, digs deep and brings accountability to the forefront. This is a clever and witty look into the author's journey from being a woman to finding her voice as a writer, and everything in between. It proves to be a refreshing read and evokes deep thinking.

'The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl' by Issa Rae

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This is a great book for the everyday introvert. Learn to find laughter, beauty, and appreciation for your awkwardness through this collection of essays. I found this to be humorously entertaining, and quite relatable. You'll be sure to find your own path as an introverted black woman in today's society with just one read.

'Year of Yes' by Shonda Rhimes

Let's face it. Many of us struggle with being our own authentic self. This is something author Shonda Rhimes was all too familiar with. In this amazing book, Rhimes shares how she decided to let go of uncertainty and self-doubt in exchange of truly saying "yes" to living her best life. She stopped letting fear and apprehension get the best of her, and once she decided to say "yes" to everything from health to happiness, the possibilities were endless.

'Confidence Your Secret Weapon: A Guide to Building Confidence' by Ashley Korin McLean

Whether you're a business owner or simply soul-searching, this book will certainly guide you towards building self-confidence and goal-setting. Through the use of exercises and truly thought-provoking material, you'll be able to incorporate the content into your life on a daily basis.

'Don’t Dumb Down Your Greatness: A Young Entrepreneur’s Guide to Thinking & Being Great' by Anthony Frasier

It's amazing what can happen when you alter your mindset. A positive mindset truly does result in a positive life, even for today's aspiring entrepreneur. This book is actually one that I've read more than once as I truly feel it spoke volumes. This is tailored for young entrepreneurs of color as the author felt that void wasn't being filled. The author, Anthony Frasier, provides personal stories and lessons discussing creativity, self-doubt, and success, in addition to a wide array of other topics to encourage greatness.

'You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life' by Jen Sincero

Today's a great day to start living an awesome life and it starts with this book. This was suggested to me by more than a few amazing black creatives in my life and for good reason. Essentially, we all want to live our best life, but self-doubt can hinder us from so much. You are truly the only one standing in the way of you, and this book will serve as a reminder. You Are a Badass causes you to pinpoint the thoughts and actions that keep you from being the best you and in a very relatable way.

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