I've always been a voracious reader, from the early days of sneaking books by flashlight after bedtime, to recent years of the teetering stack of bedside reads precariously lodged near my head.
I love having multiple books going simultaneously - options I can tuck into based on my mood - from research dense, to light-hearted. But there are a few books that I’ve read at crucial transition points in my life, each gifted to me serendipitously by a friend sensing I needed a little steering.
I recently shared this list with a friend going through a transition from work to retirement (that’s a word in need of a rebrand) and thought I’d share it with you today!
Each of these books that moved me along my path in some big way to becoming the woman I am today. Each inviting me to more fully live in my body. To work more tangibly with my hands. To seek peace and presence in each moment. To find magic in the everyday.
The Artist's Way. Julia Cameron’s self-developed 12-week program of assignments and reading guides you to cultivate a supportive creative environment and practice. Cameron’s belief that anyone can tap into their artistic potential by overcoming fear and just doing the work - has been a tool I return to again and again when I’m stuck in a creative rut, or ventured too far from my own creative practice. I first read this book in 2014, while on sabbatical from my corporate design job and credit it with the first thread to be pulled that started me on my mostly daily creative practice and artistic journey.
The Untethered Soul. Have you ever thought about what it would be like to break free from your limitations and truly soar? Or how about finding a little inner peace and calm in your everyday life? This New York Times bestseller helps to answers these questions in a simple yet powerful way. Whether you’re just starting your journey into self-discovery or you’ve been on this path for a while, this book has something to offer that can change how you see yourself and the world around you. I was gifted this book in 2018, just as I was stepping off of my corporate path into a more balanced and creative life. It’s a thought-provoking, soul searching read, broken down into digestible learning.
“The universe buries strange jewels deep within us all, and then stands back to see if we can find them. The hunt to discover those jewels––that's creative living.” Elizabeth Gilbert, Big Magic : Creative Living Beyond Fear
Big Magic. A witty, inspirational, kick-in-the-pants for any creative (yes, you) in need of a nudge to get back to the studio / kitchen / piano / typewriter to coax your inner magic and creative genius into existence. Beloved author Elizabeth Gilbert gives us a glimpse into her own generative process, sharing her unique insights on creativity and the creative process. This quick and joyful read will leave you inspired, laughing and ready to go!
xx.
Jill
Big Magic has been on my list for so long! Need to finally read it this Summer! ♥️
Love this list. Big Magic is my artist’s bible. I’ve passed my copy among friends and I love the layered notes in the margins it has gained over the years! The Artist’s Way is top of my list!