Six Inspiring & Motivational Books To Help Kick-Start Your Career Or Business Venture

You just can't beat curling up with a cup of tea and a great book. There's something about those moments of calm, disconnected from the digital world, that help to re-set the mind and leave you feeling inspired. I'm a big reader and always have been, but over the last year I've stopped reading so many murder mysteries and historical fiction (still love them though!) in favour of books that motivate and re-energize. Being self-employed I'm particularly prone to just getting on with it and powering through my to-do list, rather than taking a moment to reflect or attempt a new way of thinking in order to be more efficient; it's easy to just keep going, even when you've lost your mojo, but taking some advice from others can often be just what the brain needs to refocus. From my huge pile of books bought during a lost moment, these are the six I'd recommend giving a read as we step into a new year and could collectively do with a bit of inspo. Enjoy!


Strong Woman: The Truth About Getting To The TopImage may be NSFW.
Clik here to view. - Karren Brady 
As an avid viewer of The Apprentice, I instantly fell in love with Karren when she took over from Margaret in 2010. I adore her no-nonsense approach and how she's made such an impact in traditionally male dominated environments, so this was a no-brainer for me to pick up and devour. Her story is an incredible one, starting as a graduate at my previous home of Saatchi & Saatchi and moving on to being the youngest ever Vice Chairman of Birmingham FC, before making it in television and politics simultaneously. If you need some serious motivation and proof that you can achieve whatever you set your mind to, then this is a great new year's read. Her simple pieces of advice and logical reasoning are a refreshing change from a lot of the fluffy 'inspo' books that are traditionally recommended; I loved every page. 

GirlbossImage may be NSFW.
Clik here to view. - Sophia Amoruso
If you haven't read the book that caused a whole movement, then where have you been? If you have, then here's an excuse to read it again! Sophia's story is hugely inspirational and provides small tidbits of practical advice to help you achieve whatever career or business dreams you have; she started selling charity finds on eBay and later sold her multi-million pound fashion brand Nasty Gal so she could focus on other projects. She holds no prisoners and doesn't sugar coat the difficulties she faced, making this a bible for young women needing a kick up the butt in 2018.

The Life-Changing Magic of Not Giving a F**kImage may be NSFW.
Clik here to view. - Sarah Knight  
Another firm favourite of mine that I read every time I feel like my purpose or focus is waning, this will leave you wondering why you've spent so much time making everyone else's lives easier at the expense of your own. Her simple and practical advice feels like a mate giving you a talking to over a glass of wine, and by the end you'll be confident in saying no and will stop worrying about stuff that really doesn't matter. I got her latest book 'You Do You' for Christmas and I can't wait to get stuck in. 

Pause: How To Press Pause Before Life Does It For YouImage may be NSFW.
Clik here to view. - Danielle Marchant  
I'm really not great at slowing down or stopping to relfect, instead focused on doing as many things at once as possible and feeling productive pretty much every moment of the day. However, this often leaves my brain buzzing and unable to switch off - which impacts my sleeping habits and my stress levels. 'Pause' is a guide on simply how to do just that, helping you to take a moment out of your day and focus on keeping your mind as healthy as possible. It discusses the importance of taking time out to celebrate successes and look after yourself, as well as daily tasks to keep your productivity high and your relationships blooming. I love the practical exercises (such as writing a letter to yourself or getting crafty with glue and scissors) and the questions it poses to really make you think; nobody can be productive in business without looking after themselves, and this provides a handy support system to do just that.

How to Be an Overnight SuccessImage may be NSFW.
Clik here to view. - Maria Hatzistefanis
Written by the founder of beauty brand Rodial, Maria's story is by no means a unique one but it does help to inspire and motivate if you've always dreamed of launching your own business. She shares how she took risks and believed in her own vision, as well as how she utilised social media and clever tactics to get her brand name out there without much money. As one of the original 'blogger brands' it was fascinating to see what went on behind the scenes, especially as I've been there with them since pretty much the beginning. There was a chapter which ironically slagged off the bloggers that have helped her so much *eye roll* but apart from that a quick, easy and inspirational read to whizz through on your commute.

Little Black BookImage may be NSFW.
Clik here to view. - Otegha Uwagba
One you can pop in your bag and refer back to constantly, this handy guide gives you small pieces of advice and guidance that you can easily implement. Topics include knowing your worth, overcoming creative block , public speaking, building your brand and how to up your productivity, so it's a great little gift for any freelancers in your life. I really loved the fact she even includes great places to work in major UK cities and even her own suggestions of books to read and sites to visit. Although none of the info included is groundbreaking, sometimes all you need to kick-start your focus is some straight-talking common sense. 


Do you love to read motivational books to keep you on track or help focus your mind for the year ahead? Got any other great reads you think I'll love? Let me know below!

Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.