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Tomasz Korczyński's avatar

An interesting set. From the texts I read, they broadened my perspective on them, and I also added two items to the "to read" list

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Noah Blair Yoshida's avatar

I've added these to my wishlist on my Amazon! I love these kind of self improvement booksz not only for myself but for my craft.

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Eduardo Ortiz's avatar

great to see you’re here too bud!

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Gajan Balan's avatar

Likewise brother. Looking forward to seeing your updates.

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Gary R Hook's avatar

This is an intriguing list. I’m only familiar with Rubin, and am very interested in the rest of them. After I do some reading I’ll have actual thoughts.

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Ken Walker's avatar

Thank you for sharing recommendations on books that affected you. I had picked up The Creative Act back in October, but hadn't started it yet. You have inspired me to begin reading!

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Gajan Balan's avatar

It's such a good read. Dive in and keep a notepad nearby.

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Pamela Davis's avatar

wow thank you for the book recommendations always in search of good books!

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Gajan Balan's avatar

My pleasure. Thanks for reading.

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Corrine's avatar

Great collection of books. I'm currently reading the Creative Act by Rick Rubin on repeat. I think I'm at the fourth go of it. Everytime, I underline something new or double underline or sketch. I'd also recommend the interview he did with Rick Beato. I used to be an all or nothing type. Of course, this means that nothing ever measures up. Atomic Habits really helped make clear how important the small steps are. I think I'll have to read it again... Carol Dweck's book on Growth mindset is a short yet mighty read. I'll add this one you've mentioned to my list.

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Gajan Balan's avatar

Thanks for the recommendations!

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Chris Hale's avatar

Wonderful list of books. Have you read Sean Tucker’s book “The Meaning in the Making”?

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Gajan Balan's avatar

I haven't, but will add it to my list! Thanks for sharing.

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Dom Gagliardi's avatar

Your travel street photography loadout is great—I've got a few trips planned for next year that I plan on emulating your setup for. Hopefully I can capture some magic out there!

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Gajan Balan's avatar

Good luck. Enjoy the journey.

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Ebi Agbeyegbe's avatar

These are nice books to add to the list especially heading into the new year. thanks so much for sharing. Atomic habits is one of those that helped me build habits that I still follow till this day so I'm glad you enjoyed it as well

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Gajan Balan's avatar

Thanks for reading.

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Gregory Brennan's avatar

Thank you for revealing your favorite alternative sources from which we can all gain perspective from other walks of life.

I have read a couple of these (James Clear is a good thought provoker) and find that "when the Student is ready, the Master will appear" applies to me, and a small dose of inspiration will jump into my world to help me rethink or focus on my situation.

I will check out the rest of the list - Thanks!!

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Gajan Balan's avatar

James is doing some phenomenal work. Thanks for reading.

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Les Latchman's avatar

Hey Gajan, love the wider philosophical approach you've take on this weeks post, as I originally opened it thinking it was going to be about photo books haha! Out of all the books you've listed, Sapiens is definitely my favourite (if not my favourite book in the world!). The way Yuval clearly explains our history within 400 pages or so is nothing short of remarkable and the information really provided me with a lasting sense of gratitude for the time we're living in right now. With regards to the other books you mentioned, I hadn't heard of most of them, but as a newly turned pro photographer, your descriptions of The Creative Act by Rick Rubin and Getting Things Done really stood out. Mainly because I suffer / benefit from perfectionism and ADHD (recently diagnosed). As such I think Rick's book will really help with my imposter syndrome at times and my 'relationship' with leading a creative life, and Getting Things Done will definitely help put systems in place to stay consistent in what I hope will be a big year for me in my new career. I've asked for both for Christmas and sent your links so I'm looking forward to digging into them over the holidays. Thanks again mate and keep up the amazing work, I've been a subscriber for a while and it's always a joy to see your messages pop up in the inbox!

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Gajan Balan's avatar

Truly appreciate you sharing this, Les. Thanks for supporting!

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Les Latchman's avatar

No problem! I don't usually comment, but I had to this time as this post definitely struck a chord. Thanks again!

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José Martínez Verea's avatar

Nothing on Susan Sontag?

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