You've got all the knowledge, all the experience but what can help you to take a leap in your design career? Inspiration - that's what.
A good book can change your mind-set and give you that little nudge in the right direction. Cogs asked our designers for their top book buys of the last 12 months, so why not treat yourself or the creative in your life with the perfect inspirational gift.
1. REWORK - Change the Way You Work Forever, by Jason Fried
or anyone who's ever dreamed of doing it on their own (freelance or a start-up) this is for you. Written by the founders of the software company 37signals, can help a new generation of entrepreneurs - inspiring and accessible, proving anyone can make it on their own.
2. Just My Type by Simon Garfield Garfield
Just My Type, uncovers where fonts come from and why we need so many. But it is so much more than just a font book, this is a book of stories, from how Helvetica and Comic Sans took over the world and why Barack Obama opted for Gotham, while Amy Winehouse found her soul in 30s Art Deco.
3. How to see the World by Nicholas Mirzoeff
This book defines visual culture, Mirzoeff draws on art history, theory and everyday experience. A delightful read that deploys a blend of science, sociology and art history to interpret everything from old masters to selfies. book
4. What they don’t teach you at Harvard Business School by Mark McCormack
Author Mark McCormack, known as on of the most powerful man in sport cleverly fills in the gaps between school education and street knowledge which he has developed from running a business and managing people. It shares the business skills, techniques and wisdom gleaned from twenty-five years of experience. A fantastic read for anyone already running a business or for budding entrepreneurs who are considering it!
5. The Untold Stories Behind 29 Classic Logo by Mark Sinclair
Explore 29 internationally-recognised logos, understanding their development, design, usage and purpose, from Coca-Cola logotype, the Penguin Books’ colophon. A fascinating brilliant read to be enjoyed by anyone with a creative mind.
6. David and Goliath by Malcom Gladwell
David and Goliath is a cult read, exploring stories of remarkable underdogs throughout history, science and psychology. It's a brilliant, illuminating book that overturns conventional thinking about power and advantage.
7. Hooked - How to Build Habit-Forming Products, by, Nir Eyal
Why do some products capture widespread attention while others flop? This book is on Eyal’s years of research, consulting, and practical experience -he wrote the book he wished had been available to him as a start-up founder. So it's the perfect read for designers with big ideas! book
There you have it, a selection of books to engage, inspire and bring joy to anyone with a creative mind, as recommended from designers across the Globe. If these books do inspire you to progress your career why not check out our live creative jobs now or contact the team today to discuss, books, holidays and most importantly your career!