I gave myself the challenge to read more this year. I’ve read more in the past year than I have over the past 10 years put together! Here is a list of my favourite design and self-improvement books I read throughout 2022.
Atomic Habits by James Clear
“Atomic Habits” is a book by James Clear that explores the idea that small, consistent changes in behaviour can lead to significant improvements in life. The book offers practical advice on how to create and maintain good habits, and how to break bad ones. Through a combination of storytelling, science, and practical examples, “Atomic Habits” offers a unique and compelling perspective on how to make lasting changes in behaviour and achieve long-term success. The book also explores the role of habit formation in achieving personal and professional goals and offers strategies for overcoming common obstacles to habit change.
Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman
We all get on average 4000 weeks on this planet. This book makes you think about your time on this big rock differently. Rather than getting anything done in the short time we have. Oliver makes you think about using your time better for what is truly important. How are you going to use your 4000 weeks?
Embrace your limits. Change your life. Make your four thousand weeks count.
Show Your Work! by Austin Kleon
“Show Your Work” is a book by Austin Kleon that explores sharing your creative process with others to gain exposure, build an audience, and create opportunities. The book offers practical advice on how to share your work in an authentic, generous, and engaging way. It encourages readers to embrace the benefits of being open and vulnerable in their creative endeavours. With a focus on the value of collaboration, community, and networking, “Show Your Work” offers a unique and compelling perspective on how to succeed in the modern creative landscape.
Steal Like An Artist by Austin Kleon
This book explores the idea of building on the ideas and work of others, rather than creating something new. The book argues that all artists, whether they are writers or visual artists, are influenced by the work of others. And that it is not only acceptable, but necessary, to borrow, steal, and remix the work of others. Through a series of short and playful stories, “Steal Like an Artist” offers practical advice on how to incorporate the work of others into your own creative process and make it your own.
Survival Skills for Freelancers by Sarah Townsend
Survival skills for Freelancers is a great guide for budding freelancers. Every freelancer should have this book in their arsenal. Sarah talks about the ups and downs of being a freelancer and how to cope with certain situations. The book also talks about the mental health impact of being self-employed. Always making sure that your mental health is the priority.
Are there any design books you would add to this list? If so, let us know in the comments below!