Favourite Writing Books
Part 3: Career (Creativity & Productivity)
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Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life by Anne Lamott (Anchor, 1995) – This very personal book is full of insights on what, how, and why to write; I recommend reading it a bit at a time.

Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown (Crown Business, 2014) – This book boils down to teaching you to focus your energy and say “no” to commitments that don’t further your goals; applicable to any area of life.

Manage Your Day-to-Day: Build Your Routine, Find Your Focus, and Sharpen Your Creative Mind (Amazon, 2013) – Each short chapter on routine, focus, tools, and the creative mind is written by a different expert.

A Million Little Ways: Uncover the Art You Were Meant to Live by Emily P. Freeman (Fleming H. Revell, 2013) – This is an inspiring call to glorify God and benefit others in your daily life.

So Good They Can’t Ignore You: Why Skills Trump Passion in the Quest for Work You Love by Cal Newport (Business Plus, 2012) – Newport presents a compelling argument for the craftsman mindset (working hard to become the best you can be at your job) over the passion mindset (finding the job that is perfect for you).

What the Most Successful People Do Before Breakfast: And Two Other Short Guides to Achieving More at Work and at Home by Laura Vanderkam (Portfolio, 2013) – Check this out if you enjoy reading practical tips and looking at other people’s time logs.