10 Must-Reads for Creative Entrepreneurs

Books can guide, encourage, and help you build your creative business with confidence. Here are 10 clear, inspiring books that will help you create, share your work, and grow your business without feeling overwhelmed.

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1. Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert

Big Magic teaches creatives how to live a life full of curiosity instead of fear. Elizabeth Gilbert shares stories from her own journey, showing how to follow ideas, trust your creative spirit, and enjoy the process of making art, writing, or designing. This book helps creatives let go of perfectionism so they can share their work with the world.

2. The War of Art by Steven Pressfield

The War of Art explains “Resistance,” the force that keeps creatives from doing their work. Steven Pressfield shares clear, direct advice on how to push past fear, procrastination, and self-doubt to keep creating. This book helps creatives develop a professional mindset so they can build their business with steady action.

3. Show Your Work! by Austin Kleon

Show Your Work! teaches creatives how to share their process in simple, honest ways to attract an audience. Austin Kleon explains how sharing your journey can help others connect with your work, making it easier to build community and interest in your art, designs, or business. This book includes practical ideas you can apply right away to grow your online presence.

4. Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon

Steal Like an Artist shows that creativity builds on inspiration from others, and that no idea is truly original. Austin Kleon explains how to collect ideas, remix them, and add your own style to create something unique. This book helps creatives feel confident in their work while letting go of the fear of not being “original enough.”

5. Company of One by Paul Jarvis

Company of One explains why staying small can help creatives build a business that supports their life instead of taking it over. Paul Jarvis shares examples and practical tips on how to earn income without growing a big team or adding stress. This book helps creatives focus on freedom, profit, and flexibility while staying true to their creative goals.

6. Atomic Habits by James Clear

Atomic Habits teaches how small, daily habits lead to big results over time. James Clear explains how to build good habits, break bad ones, and design systems that support your creative work. This book helps creatives structure their time so they can create consistently and grow their business without burnout.

7. Creative Calling by Chase Jarvis

Creative Calling guides creatives on how to discover their passions and turn them into a business. Chase Jarvis shares steps on creating regularly, building a body of work, and sharing it confidently. This book helps creatives see the value of their work and how creativity can lead to a fulfilling career and life.

8. You Are a Badass at Making Money by Jen Sincero

You Are a Badass at Making Money helps creatives build confidence in earning money from their work. Jen Sincero shares stories and exercises that encourage a healthy money mindset, helping creatives understand that they deserve to earn well while doing what they love. This book is motivating and easy to read, making it great for creatives ready to grow their income.

9. Building a StoryBrand by Donald Miller

Building a StoryBrand teaches how to clearly share what your business offers so customers understand and connect. Donald Miller explains how to use storytelling to make your customers the hero while your brand guides them to success. This book helps creatives improve their marketing so they can attract the right audience and increase sales.

10. The Practice by Seth Godin

The Practice encourages creatives to focus on taking consistent action rather than waiting for perfect ideas or approval. Seth Godin shares why showing up and sharing your work regularly builds trust and skill over time. This book helps creatives develop the habit of creating and sharing without fear, which is key for business growth.

Why These Books Matter

These books will help you:
✅ Build a creative business with confidence
✅ Develop habits for steady progress
✅ Share your work to grow your audience
✅ Improve your marketing and money mindset
✅ Create consistently without fear

What You Can Do Next

✅ Choose one book from this list to start reading.
✅ Read for 15-20 minutes each day to build a habit.
✅ Share what you learn with your audience to inspire others.