In one way or another, we’re all dealing with added pressure as a result of the pandemic, whether it’s due to new uncertainties as an entrepreneur, bored children pulling you in all sorts of directions, or just plain old cabin fever. Now more than ever is it important to take time for yourself - prioritizing mental wellness and giving your brain the break it likely needs. Braving the storm that is COVID-19, many entrepreneurs are indulging in new and past-neglected endeavours to stay optimistic and cope with stress. Reading can be one such activity to take a break from your work (and your screen). We asked some AWE team members what inspiring, entrepreneurial books have been open on their nightstands as of late. If you’ve been dipping your toes into the literary arts and are looking for more, be sure to check out these recommendations!
Thrive by Arianna Huffington
“Thrive by Arianna Huffington redefined what it means to be successful in our fast-paced and modern world. This book made me realize that I needed to prioritize my well-being, sense of wonder, inner wisdom and compassion, so that I can not only survive but truly thrive.” - Nicole Cayanan, Financing Specialist
Girl, Stop Apologizing by Rachel Hollis
“I like it because it is a no-nonsense, easy read that all women business owners should read, reminding themselves of the important things to keep themselves and their businesses running. The personal and the professional should drive. It is a confidence booster that takes you back to the basics.” - Kandis Neth, PeerSpark Facilitator
Brave, Not Perfect by Reshma Saujani
“I loved it because it’s relatable to many women who are struggling with striving for perfection in all areas of their lives, due to societal ideals, and letting that get in the way of being able to truly follow their dreams because of their fear of being perceived as anything less than perfect. This book offers great insights and motivation to help women live their dreams fearlessly.” - Kiran Sagoo, Program Specialist
No Filter by Sarah Frier
“This book walks through the story of Instagram and the $1B dollar sale to Facebook. It is interesting to me how the brand grew so quickly, and the fact that they had a server devoted to Bieber's followers. I would recommend it to anyone that ever felt their idea would never amount to anything.” - Amber Hall, Business Advisor
Good to Great by Jim Collins
“This book was assigned reading for a class I took on change management and it delved into the seven characteristics that companies that transition from being good to being great have. I really enjoyed how the concepts in this book were backed by real-life examples which made it so much more interesting to read. I’d recommend this book because there are some really good nuggets of information that women entrepreneurs can apply in their own businesses.” - Fatima Mohamed, Marketing Assistant
This is Marketing by Seth Godin
“I believe great marketing comes from understanding your niche audience first and foremost. In this book, Seth Godin focuses on creating success through stories, great products/ services, and treating customers like people, not numbers. Marketing doesn’t have to mean shouting, scamming, and being manipulative. You can do marketing that's ethical, generous, and effective. This book is not a checklist, but rather a marketing manifesto for long term success. It's one of those books that needs to be savoured like a bar of decadent chocolate, small pieces. Here's to less hustle, more humanity.” - Jenifer Horvath, Business Advisor
4 Hour Workweek by Timothy Ferris
“This book is about adopting a new mindset completely toward your work/life balance.” - Eliana Salazar, CFO
Brotopia by Emily Chang
“Brotopia focuses on Silicon Valley and the tech industry, but I think the topics explored by Emily Chang can be applied beyond that. This book really changed the way I think about the concepts of meritocracy or hiring for culture fit, and challenged a lot of my initial assumptions about why women are underrepresented in certain industries. Ultimately Chang addresses the question of ‘How did we get here and how do we fix it?’” - Devonne Kendrick, Marketing Coordinator
Radical Candor by Kim Scott
“I read this book on the advice of women entrepreneurs I greatly admire. Kim Scott offers a practical, honest approach to communicating and creating relationships built on trust by caring personally and challenging directly. I love the focus on guidance: giving it, receiving it, and encouraging it. “ - Marcela Mandeville, CEO
Without a doubt, these circumstances have been challenging, and all of us are eagerly awaiting a return to normalcy. Nevertheless, we persist, and hold tightly the activities and habits that fill our cups and connect us to the world and each other. Perhaps one positive takeaway from this crisis is the importance of interests outside of work - the little things we do to fuel our souls that so often get pushed aside. And maybe, once this storm blows over, we can continue to make them a priority when our busy lifestyles and hectic schedules recommence.
