Inspiring Reads for the Holiday Season
Photo by Emma Victoria Photography
The holiday season is the perfect time to cozy up with a good book and find inspiration for the year ahead. Whether you’re looking to spark creativity, improve your mindset, or fine-tune your business skills, these books are sure to leave a lasting impression. Here are some of my top recommendations to add to your reading list:
1. Atomic Habits by James Clear
If you’re looking to build better habits in 2025, this book is a must-read. James Clear breaks down the science of habit formation into simple, actionable steps, showing how small changes can lead to transformative results. It’s the perfect guide to start the new year with purpose and intention.
2. The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron
A classic for creatives, this book is like a roadmap to rediscovering your artistic self. Julia Cameron’s exercises, like Morning Pages, are designed to unlock your creativity and help you overcome the blocks that hold you back. It’s especially great for photographers and other artists looking to reignite their passion.
3. The Gap and The Gain by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy
This book teaches a powerful mindset shift: instead of focusing on what you haven’t achieved, celebrate the progress you’ve made. It’s a transformative read for anyone who tends to be their own harshest critic (and let’s face it, that’s most of us).
4. The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin
This beautifully written book explores the essence of creativity and what it means to live an inspired life. It’s a philosophical yet practical read that will resonate deeply with anyone who values the creative process.
5. Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
Elizabeth Gilbert dives into the magic of creativity and how to embrace fear, curiosity, and inspiration. Her conversational tone and real-life stories make this an uplifting and empowering read for any creative professional.
6. Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown
If you feel stretched too thin, this book will teach you how to focus on what truly matters. It’s an invaluable guide for simplifying your life and prioritizing the things that bring the most value to your personal and professional journey.
7. The War of Art by Steven Pressfield
Pressfield tackles the internal resistance that creatives often face and offers strategies to overcome it. Whether it’s procrastination, fear, or self-doubt, this book will motivate you to push through and keep creating.
8. Show Your Work! by Austin Kleon
This practical guide is perfect for anyone looking to share their creative journey and build an authentic audience. Kleon’s approachable advice will inspire you to put yourself out there in a way that feels genuine and meaningful.
The holidays are a wonderful time to pause, reflect, and recharge. Adding one or more of these books to your reading list can provide not only inspiration but also practical tools to carry you into the new year with confidence and clarity.
What’s on your reading list this holiday season? Share your favorites in the comments or tag us on social media, I’d love to hear what inspires you!
Happy Holidays,
xxNicole