My favourite books on creativity, self-development & life-lessons
As you can tell from previous posts, I’m an avid reader. Or try to be at least. It’s been my go to during these weird Covid-Lockdown-Zoom-You’re-on-Mute times.
For me, nothing beats reading a book with a warm drink nearby whilst soaking up some sun.
Whether you’re the type to leave notes, fold the corners or buy copies just for the cover, reading a physical book to me is a-kin to an art form.
I remember clearly, a jewel an old english teacher once said to me:
“If you want to improve your vocabulary: read.
If you want to escape reality into a different world: read.
If you’re stuck on a problem and want to know more: read.
If you want to research and know more about a topic: read. Most of the the answers you are looking for are already there. All you need to do is….”
She was the person who got me reading Sherlock Holmes and all sorts of amazing material.
Nowadays my reading often spans between Sci-fi, Crime Thriller, Philosophy, Self-Help or Auto-biographies. Most of these are not related to design; those I tend to read on the fly alongside my work just to stay up to date. Quite often ‘design’ books are not always that helpful or talk more about current trends; nothing that you can’t readily find on a blog or reading forum.
These books outlined below however are my pick of the litter. The cream of the crop. The ones I’ve found to be most helpful because of the value they have brought me, whether that’s sparking creativity, helping you to think laterally or bestowing key life lessons.
In no particular order…
How To Win Friends & Influence People - By Dale Carnegie
Self Development
Sounds cheesy and cliche. However written in 1936 and still relevant today, this is a testament to how much of a classic it is. Well written, with bitesize chapters and simple use of language — I’ve read this book multiple times and it has helped me brush up on my people skills and become a better person ‘all-round’.
Predatory Thinking - Dave Trott
Creativity, Strategic Thinking
I’m a huge supporter of Dave Trott‘s work. He has a unique style of writing that has a poignant way of getting a point across within real-life stories and inspiring you to ‘get upstream’ to solve problems.
I have all his books, seen him talk live, follow all his blogs but for me; Predatory Thinking was the one that I caught onto first and got me hooked.
Negative Space - Noma Bar
Creativity
Noma Bar is the OG master Jedi of Illustration and is known for using negative space to deliver introverted graphics with multiple meanings that have been featured in top publications.
His style, clever use of colour and wit within illustrations have always been inspiring, especially when I find myself doing similar work or logo work.
He has a number of books but I was hooked from Negative Space and have bought them all since.
Start With Why - Simon Sinek
(Self Development, Strategic Thinking)
Review taken from previous post:
Simon Sinek, most famous for his TEDxTalk: ‘Start With Why’ kickstarted his journey and this book is an offspring from that talk, expanding further into the discussions and covering a bit more.
The first part of the book does tend to get a bit repetitive (especially if you have watched the talk), however the latter part does tend to dive into some more specific examples and expanding on how great leaders changed dynamics by focusing on the why.
Either way it’s a game-changer. Something that everyone can relate to regardless of background, level or profession. On the whole, a good read.
The Way of the Superior Man - David Deida
(Self Development)
A self help book, written by David Deida in a philosophical way which allows you to go back to it time and time again.
The books helps bring topics to light and into discussion that don’t normally get brought up elsewhere (some may even say controversial), such as one’s self definition of manhood, the natural polarity of relationships, masculine and feminine energy and much more.
The Alchemist-Paulo Coelho
(Self Development, Life Lessons)
A classic inspirational novel that is loved by many and interpreted in many different ways.
For me, the tale reminds me to dream big, trust the journey and follow your passion. But also, to have gratitude throughout it all.
Pryor Convictions and other life sentences — Richard Pryor
(Self Development, Life Lessons)
The autobiography of the legend that is Richard Pryor. A funny and brutally honest, giving insight into his rollercoaster life journey.
For me, this book gave me a jewel: Always keep some sunshine on ya face.
Wall and Piece -Banksy
(Creativity, Strategic Thinking)
A collection of Banksy’s earlier pieces with annotations and insights to some of the thought provoking pieces.
And a reminder to think outside the box, go against the grain and occasionally break the rules.
Meditations-Marcus Aurelius
(Self Development)
Written in Greek by the Roman emperor who was also a philosopher, Marcus Aurelius is the pinnacle when it comes to philosophy / stoicism.
Written in 160 AD, this translated journal of thoughts is bound to have at least one thought / quote that will impact and resonate with anyone.
Thinking Fast & Slow — Daniel Kahneman
(Creativity, Self Development, Strategic Thinking)
This book gets summed up as a ‘must read’ for all designers in almost every book recommendation list. And it’s not for no reason.
For me, being someone who is fascinated about the mind and behaviour, this book helped me gain insight into how we as humans think and process information. The more we understand then the more we can explain and cater to human decision making.
Get ‘Thinking Fast and Slow’ from Amazon >
The Tao of Wu — The RZA
(Self Development / Life Lessons)
A unique book of wisdom and experiences told by the Abbot of the Wu-Tang Clan. Covering topics like eastern philosophy, self-development, teachings from various faiths and influences from the likes of Kung-fu culture, comic books, movies and many more.
This books is not only for the die-hard Wu-Tang fans but for those also seeking truth and knowledge and are always trying broaden horizons.
But yeah Wu-Tang is for the children.
Other books worthy of note:
Ready Player One — Ernest Cline
(Creativity)
The War of Art — Steve Pressfield
(Self Development /Creativity)
Don’t Make Me Think — Steve Krug
(Creativity)
Hectors Search for Happiness - François Lelord
(Self Development /Life Lessons)
Think and Grow Rich - Napoleon Hill
(Self Development /Life Lessons)
How to be a Graphic Designer Without Losing Your Soul - Adrian Shaughnessy
(Creativity)
Los Logos — Die Gestalten Verlag
(Creativity)
Lean UX — Jeff Gothelf
(Creativity)
Thank you for reading.
I’ll be sure to keep adding to this list as I go forward. If you liked this post don’t forget to hit the clap button below :)
This story was written by Kultar Singh Ruprai.
Your friendly neighbourhood designer.
