Every month I share about the books I’ve been reading recently. They’re always good, but this group was amazing.
Just reading these books made me more productive. Seriously.
I guess I should say reading them made me a more productive person by changing how I think about creative work, time and my home. Which is why they were amazing.
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3 Must-Read Books about Productivity
Do the Work: Overcome Resistance and Get Out of Your Own Way
by Steven Pressfield
Wow, Do the Work was short but profound. If you are a creative type or you are currently stretching yourself to try something big or new, it is a must-read. He talks about resistance, the natural force that we encounter when we try to do anything new, big, creative or awesome. The simple act of reading it will reduce the power of that resisting force, and will increase your mental fortitude.
You have to read it to understand. If you only read one of these, make it this one!
The 12 Week Year: Get More Done in 12 Weeks than Others Do in 12 Months
by Brian P. Moran and Michael Lennington
Okay I’m still working through The 12 Week Year but I have to say that just the process of reading the first few chapters accomplished one of what must be the author’s primary goals: to change the way you look at time. You’ll view project goals and deadlines differently. And you will get twice as much done.
Organized Simplicity: The Clutter-Free Approach to Intentional Living
by Tsh Oxenreider
This little book is amazing. Earlier this year I used Organized Simplicity to work on crafting my family’s mission statement and figuring out my purpose for my home. I recently pulled it back out to help me prepare for a yard sale, and I’m going to come back to it soon when I’m ready to finally put together a working Home Management notebook.
If you follow Tsh on her blog, TheArtofSimple.net, you know her style is simple, accessible and authentic, and you probably already have this book. If not, check it out. I’m adding it permanently to the reference section of my personal library.
Note: On the related topic of what we choose to do when we are being productive, I also really enjoyed and highly recommend Poke the Box, and Tribes, both by Seth Godin.
Next Month
I’m beyond excited to read The Four Tendencies by Gretchen Rubin which was released on Tuesday, and Reading People by Anne Bogel which will be released next week. I pre-ordered both of these books months ago! I guess it will be a month of personality-focused reading. Maybe I can find one more to round out the group. Let me know if you have read one you recommend.
Alicia Eichmann