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Writer's pictureJoana Torpes

Smart Girls Read Books

We all know how reading fuels knowledge, ignites ideas, and overall makes you more aware of the world around you. So, as an organization (and team) that is deeply appreciative and supportive of literature, here is our curated list of 8 books you should definitely read, on all things career and personal development (you are very welcome).



1. "Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear", by Elizabeth Gilbert (2015)




“A creative life is an amplified life. It’s a bigger life, a happier life, an expanded life, and a hell of a lot more interesting life. Living in this manner—continually and stubbornly bringing forth the jewels that are hidden within you—is a fine art, in and of itself.”

This book redefines creativity in a liberating way, encouraging you to take on the joy and beauty of creating, without being bound to fear, standards, and perceived or material success. It also takes off the veil of perfectionism and the high standards we place on ourselves when we want to create.


Essentially, it is about creating for yourself and because creative living brings you joy. And this goes beyond creativity as we know it traditionally. A great lesson on approaching and owning creativity with curiosity, openness, and playfulness.



2. "Buy Yourself the F*cking Lilies", by Tara Schuster (2020)




“When you begin your morning recognizing that you are a goddess, you'll notice the whole world will start to treat you that way.”

Through a personal, vulnerable (and often hilarious) testimonial, Tara Schuster underscores the relevance and power of self-love and provides readers with a guide on growing up (at whichever life stage you find yourself in).



3. "Quiet", by Susan Chain (2012)




“The secret to life is to put yourself in the right lighting. For some, it's a Broadway spotlight; for others, a lamplit desk. Use your natural powers -- of persistence, concentration, and insight -- to do work you love and work that matters. Solve problems. make art, think deeply.”

This is one for the introverted people out there (we see you, and we got you). This book honors the overlooked power and value of introverts. Full of incredible stories and in-depth research, this is the book to change how people view introverts, and how introverts view themselves.



4. "Finance For The People", by Paco de Leon (2022)




“Rebuilding your credit can take a while, especially if you have some missteps that are currently keeping it out of the excellent range. Don’t sweat it too much. Time heals all wounds; it can also do wonders for your credit score.”

Talking about finances and wealth does not have to be boring, and this book is the perfect example of that. In an approachable and fun way, this book taps into the do's and don'ts of all things money, money, money. If you wish to further explore your way into financial independence and how your beliefs and experiences with personal finances shape that, this is definitely the way to go.



5. "How To Do Nothing: Resisting the Attention Economy", by Jenny Odell (2019)




“What does it mean to construct digital worlds while the actual world is crumbling before our eyes?”

In a reality where technological progress made us be "on" 24/7 and hustle culture is bigger than ever, this book helps you find ways to resist toxic ways of productivity and helps you build healthier lifestyles.



6. "Enchantment", by Katherine May (2023)




“I don’t want to sit like a brooding hen on the nest of my past achievements. I want to keep on going deep into the uncertain act of making, to see the unknown world stretch out before me and to devote myself to exploring it.”

This lyrical read will send you on a journey of discovery and recovery of one's life and purpose at times when the world seems to ask for too much. This book will help you find and connect to the magical nature of our surroundings and rebuild ways of seeing and appreciating all that is already a part of our lives.



7. "Burnout", by Emily Nagoski, PhD and Amelia Nagoski, DMA (2019)




“The moral of the story is: We thrive when we have a positive goal to move toward, not just a negative state we’re trying to move away from.”

This read helps you understand and break down the stress we deal with every day. It shares well-researched insights into the growing expectations and pressures women face, and how that affects their lives. More than just pointing out the challenges, it offers a fresh, honest look at how we can break this cycle and change things for the better.



8. "Influence Is Your Superpower: The Science of Winning Hearts, Sparking Change, and Making Good Things Happen", by Zoe Chance (2022)




“Framing is how spellcasting works in the real world. Just by describing something or giving it a name, you called it into being. Well chosen frame can determine what’s relevant, what’s important, or what’s good. When you frame someone’s experience in a compelling way, you shape their expectations as well as their interpretation of events.”

This book is your gateway to finding your inner power and to influence, build, and achieve great things. From biased upbringing to unfair expectations, Zoe Chance helps dismantle misconceptions about negotiation and influencing people and empowers you to tap into the natural charisma you have to create change, whilst listening to your inner beliefs and values.



So, there you have it. Hope this blog post inspired you to pick up one of these books and start on your journey of professional and personal development. Believe me, knowledge is indeed power. And remember, it is not about who you are, or where you stand, but where you want to be.


We will help you get there. Grab your Klapstoel (and your book). This is our time.

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