10 Books to Boost Your Creativity and Productivity

When’s the last time you read a book that changed everything? I mean, a book that completely captivated you and gave you renewed excitement about living in a new era after what you had learned?

1. Linchpin by Seth Godin: If you’re feeling a little lost in your career or need some inspiration, Seth Godin is here to help. Rockstar sections include overcoming your resistance (self-doubt) and creating a map instead of always following directions, but there’s a lot to love here. It’s a book that forces us to acknowledge just how silly our excuses are and make things happen.

2. Play by Stuart Brown: Remember when you were a child and had more time to play? It turns out you weren’t just goofing off and it was essential to your development. Even today, there’s so much science behind why play may be crucial to your success and creativity.

3. The Art of Non-Conformity by Chris Guillebeau: This is the kind of read that gives you a kick in the rear if there’s something you really want to do, but have somehow convinced yourself that it’s not possible. Guillebeau helps us identify when we’re just making excuses. You’re going to be so fired up once you read this. (Image via 1 Year Sabbatical)

4. Making Ideas Happen by Scott Belsky: There are so many great ideas out there, but only a fraction of them ever come to fruition. Curious as to why that is? Scott Belsky has taken years of experience, research and observation to pinpoint exactly what the difference is between the geniuses that deliver and everyone else. (Image via Levenger)

5. Ignore Everybody by Hugh McLeod: The best ideas are always resisted because threaten others with change. So you can’t be worried about what everyone thinks. Ready for 39 other keys to creativity? I thought so. (Image via Enticing the Light)

6. Spark: How Creativity Works by Julie Burstein: This collection of stories investigates what inspired some of our most creative artists and thinkers plus the processes behind their work. Hearing the stories of Yo-Yo Ma, Kevin Bacon and others just might help you find a spark of you own.

7. Manage Your Day to Day by Jocelyn Glei: Today’s genius has less to do with ideas than it does with our ability to focus. You’ll learn to build a rock-solid routine, find focus in a distracted world, tame your tools, and sharpen your creative mind from some of the best in the biz. (Image via Creative Inspiration)

8. It’s Not How Good You Are, It’s How Good You Want To Be by Paul Arden: A pocket guide to reaching your potential. You’ll be reminded why failure can we a great thing and why ambition is far more important than just being born talented. These are all things we know, but need reminders of. Oh, and you’ll never guess what Posh Spice aspired to be like and why it was pretty brilliant. (Image via Joshua Stocker)

9. I Swear To Good You Are God At This by Dave Brown: 72 pages of creative inspiration featuring 25 awesome people, products and ideas. You’ll be convinced that now is the perfect time to take risks and start investing in you. (Image via Holiday Matinee)

10. I Will Teach You To Be Rich by Ramit Sethi: Okay, so this title doesn’t have anything to do with creativity, but do we really want to spend any more time than necessary dealing with our personal finances? We want it spend it doing the work we love! Sethi gives us the essentials of personal finance in a non-stuffy voice, something that many of our parents and schools have failed to do.

Did I miss any creativity and productivity reads you’d vouch for? Tell us in the comments below!

It seems like the Sunday scaries came earlier now that TikTok's likely officially banned in the U.S. (goodbye BookTok)? Viral social media or not, every Sunday some of us get that dreaded feeling before the start of a new work week. There's even an entire Instagram account that accurately describes how we feel when the 'I hope this reaches you well' emails start rolling in on Monday.

While I definitely relate, What if I told you there were things you could do to lessen your anxious thoughts so you can have a productive week? They're not going to solve all of your problems, but they'll put those pesky Sunday thoughts in a bowl of Epsom salt so you can finally relax.

Here are some easy things to do on a Sunday to make your week amazing!

MART PRODUCTION

1. Set aside time for prayer or meditation when you wake up

Before you reach for your phone to check the news or your social feeds, take a few seconds to let yourself fully wake up. Once you're feeling more present in your body, say a prayer or find a meditation practice to do for 5-10 minutes. It's a great way to ground yourself while lowering your chance of rushing to get everything done before Monday.

KoolShooters

2. Indulge in a longer morning routine

You don't have to tell us that you probably speed through your morning routine during the work week so give yourself permission to go a little slower on Sunday. You can soak in a lavender or eucalyptus epsom salt bath, or spend time exfoliating your body while in the shower. You can also use the new face mask you've been meaning to apply to your face!

Other things you can do are light a yummy smelling candle and listen to a soothing music playlist that makes you feel calm. It's our favorite way to create an at-home spa experience!

Victoria Harder

3. Begin planning your weekly tasks

This doesn't sound like fun, but having a snapshot of what you need to do during the week helps you stay on a track better than winging it. Something is bound to come up that pushes your tasks back, but you won't feel as rattled when your plans are upheaved.

In your physical or digital planner, block out your potential schedule based on tasks you know are more important than others. This will help you get more things done, making work less stressful.

Ivan Samkov

4. Go grocery shopping so you can meal prep

Meal prepping doesn't have to involve an elaborate plan, especially if you don't like to cook. Think about what you generally like to eat during the week. Let's say you usually drink smoothies in the morning, salads for lunch, and a mediterranean bowl for dinner.

You can create a grocery list that mainly involves produce (i.e. romaine lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, peppers, cucumbers, etc.,) and a lean meat or fish. From there, you can find different salad dressings, toppings, or seasonings that'll help you create several meals based on what's in your cart.

Sarah Chai

5. Tackle your overflowing laundry

You know the pile of clothes and towels you keep walking by, pretending like they're not there? They're going to irritate you during your busy week so start washing them on Sunday. As much as joke about not liking to fold our clothes once they've been washed and dried, it truly feels good not to have more tasks to focus on after a long work day.

Katie Mansfield

6. Plan your OOTDs (even if you WFH)

We're not asking you to become the world's next influencer by suggesting you should plan your OOTDs on Sunday. It's more of a way to help shake off any anxiety or angst during the week. Even wearing a new cozy rib knit set while you work from home can boost your mood, helping you perform much better at work.

And if you want to snap a picture of what you're wearing to share on Instagram, who are we to stop you?

Anastasia Polishchuk

7. Do something just for you

In the spirit of self-care, use Sunday to go for a hike, read a book, host an impromptu dinner party, or wander aimlessly around Target. You can even take a candle-making class or fly a kite! The 'what' doesn't matter as long as it's something that unlocks your inner kid and a ton of endorphins.
Alison Ives, Brit + Co's VP of content and creative says her Sunday usually consists of a "two mile reservoir walk" with her husband and their dog before grabbing a cup of coffee. She also catches up on reading magazines, journaling, and listening to an audiobook!

Cora Pursley

8. Honestly, take a rest day

You could do a ton of planning to make sure you have a productive week or you can use Sunday as 'do-nothing' day. Brit + Co's entertainment editor Chloe Williams says "I use Sunday as a rest day so the most I'll do are the dishes and check if I have extra meetings on Monday."

Polina Kovaleva

9. Go to bed earlier than midnight for once

If being a night owl hasn't made you feel any better come Monday morning, it's time for you to get the kind of rest that makes you feel like you were floating on clouds all night.

Meredith Holser, Brit + Co's affiliate writer says she tries to "resist doomscrolling" aside from focusing on self-care activities we mentioned earlier!

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Who doesn’t love finding a great deal – especially when everything is under $15? Amazon is serving up the best bargains of the week, from beauty essentials to home goods and fashion finds. All shoppable at unbeatable prices, these 12 Amazon finds won’t break the bank if you’re searching for something stylish, practical, or just downright fun.

Scroll on for our top 12 best Amazon deals of the week!

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Stanley Quencher H2.0 14-Ounce Tumbler

Stanely cups for just $15?! Count us in!

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Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid

This $14 liquid exfoliant is beloved for its ability to deliver smoother, more even skin with consistent use. It's more gentle (and more effective!) than physically exfoliating your skin, which can oftentimes do more harm than good.

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Bliss Block Star SPF 30 Invisible Daily Tinted Sunscreen

SPF is the star of your skincare routine, and this $11 (was $25) makes applying it every day super easy with a sheer, evening tint and silky-smooth feel.

Amazon

Newcosplay Super Soft Throw Blanket

Cozying up just became so much better with this $13 (was $20) pick. The ribbed texture definitely gives it a luxe vibe, but for less. Love!

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2-Pack 10-Ounce Overnight Oats Containers

Meal preppers, unite! These 10-ounce containers are perfect for overnight oats, yogurt bowls, or just sectioning out snacks to eat on throughout the workday. Snag the sleek yet durable duo for just $15!

Amazon

Hair Wax Stick

This convenient wax stick keeps your flyways at bay for the most seamless slicked-back buns or ponytails. Shoppers love this $5 (was $7) pick because its sleeking effects last all day long!

Amazon

DreamSky Wooden Digital Alarm Clock

Step up your bedside table decor with this gorgeous $15 (was $17) alarm clock – it fits right in with any home decor style!

Amazon

The Gym People High Waist Workout Shorts

These high-waisted $15 (was $23) biker shorts can stretch across tons of different occasions, from workouts to grocery store runs or just lazing around at home! You'll fall in love with them because they feature some convenient side pockets that can easily fit your phone or other small essentials you want to keep close.

Amazon

Bedsure Satin Pillowcase

This skin- and hair-friendly satin pillowcase is going for just $8 (was $13) to protect you from breakouts and broken locks. Shoppers adore how smooth it is to the touch, adding a very bougie feel to your bedtime routine for not much money.

Amazon

Sojos Classic Polarized Aviator Sunglasses

Spring's out, so that means the sun's out! You might as well protect your peepers in style with these $13 (was $20) sunnies that come in endless different colorways to match each and every outfit. We love this green pair for a playful pop of color!

Amazon

e.l.f. Squeeze Me Lip Balm

This $4 – yes, $4! – lip balm keeps your lips lookin' and feelin' super moisturized when they need it most. It also provides a sheer tint of color, so you could easily rock a layer of it with or without makeup. Such an affordable makeup bag upgrade!

Amazon

Grace & Stella Pimple Patches

Our favorite skincare hack is slapping a pimple patch on any pesky breakout that emerges. These patches at least make the experience super cute, plus you can get 36 of 'em for just $5!

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

I've been working from home since long before it became the norm. And my "office" has evolved from a spindled-back chair at the kitchen table to an airy home office with a view. Back then, my productivity took a hit without essentials like adequate storage space, comfortable seating, and a bit of privacy. While it has its perks, working from home comes with its fair share of challenges; your home office setup doesn't need to be one of them.

Here are 10 ways to redesign your home office for better productivity!

Caio

1. Bad Lighting

Dim or harsh overhead lighting can strain your eyes and limit your focus. Try to get close to a window for natural light or use daylight bulbs to mimic sunlight to boost your mood, creativity, and focus. Find a desk lamp that works for you too!

Ella Jardim

2. Clutter Everywhere

A cluttered desk equals a cluttered mind, IMO. Reduce the stress that comes with a disorganized and cluttered desk by bringing in shelves and organizers; finding sleek cable-management solutions; and removing any unnecessary items to reduce visual distractions.

Vlada Karpovich

3. Uncomfortable Furniture

If you're sitting most of the day, it's so important to invest in a good desk chair. An unsupportive chair or poorly sized desk can be uncomfortable, making it harder to stay focused for long periods of time. Your back will thank you!

Ketut Subiyanto

4. No Boundaries Between Work and Home

Distractions at home like kids and partners can kill your productivity. Avoid blurring the line between work and home life by designating a private space, separate from high-traffic spaces, for your work hours if you can. Use rugs, curtains, or acoustic panels to reduce noise too.

Mizuno K

5. Lack of Storage

I get it, they're not the best-looking pieces in your home, but without proper filing systems you’ll waste time hunting for important documents or supplies. Invest in modern storage options that look good too from Mustard Made and The Container Store.

Vlada Karpovich

6. Unoptimized Tech Setup

Slow Internet or outdated tech tools can make you feel totally frustrated and can slow down your productivity. Upgrade your Internet to a faster connection, and refresh your tech gadgets and programs to make sure you work more efficiently.

Ivan Samkov

7. Awkward Desk Placement

Placing your desk in a spot with too much noise, traffic, or distractions — like facing a TV — will guarantee to disrupt your concentration. Find a more zen spot where you can focus on the tasks of the day.

Anna Shvets

8. Ignoring Ergonomics

Check your monitor height, keyboard positioning, and add a wrist rest so you don't lead to feeling uncomfortable and fatigued, cutting your workday short.

Mikhail Nilov

9. Lack of Personalization

A sterile, uninspiring office design does your motivation and creativity no favors. Make work feel less like a chore by adding personal touches through artwork, personal photos, candles, some fresh flowers or plants. Greenery can improve air quality and actually reduce work stress. Add a little snack station for quick energy boosts and keep water handy. Also, your Zoom backgrounds should reflect your personality!

Serpstat

10. No Inspiration

No matter what you do — whether it's a creative work or something more analytical — you want to feel inspired. Personalization can help, but dive into vision boards, books, magazines, quotes that inspire your work and help you bring fresh ideas to your workday. Color psychology can help too: blues and greens encourage focus and reduce stress while pops of yellow or orange can spark creativity! Break out the paint if needed!

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Zoë Kravitz may have moved on already after her split from Channing Tatum, but she's not the only one! According to rumors, Channing has his own new love interest — and she's apparently a model. While we want him to be happy, we're heartbroken to see one of our fave heartthrobs off the market yet again! So here's what we know about Channing, how we got here, and his alleged new gorgeous girlfriend.

Scroll to find out everything you need to know about Channing Tatum's alleged new girlfriend!

I believe that practically everyone has had their own personal "Channing Tatum awakening" at one point or another. For me, that came in 2006 when he starred as Tyler Gage, alongside Jenna Dewan as Nora Clark, in Step Up. What's hotter than a troubled, handsome, and surprisingly talented hip-hop dancer falling in love with a ballerina? I rest my case.

That's why it was thrilling to find out the pair began dating in real life and tied the knot on July 11, 2009. But then, after having a daughter together, Channing and Jenna announced they were getting separated in 2018, and plenty of fans were devastated.

Their divorce was reportedly only finalized in September 2024. Regardless, that hasn't stopped 44-year-old Channing from getting back out on the market.

First, on October 30, 2023, the news broke that he'd gotten engaged to Zoë Kravitz, an American actress and filmmaker most well-known for her portrayal of Catwoman in The Batman and directing Blink Twice, which also starred Channing as Slater King.

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Yet, one year later, in October 2024, Channing and Zoë called off their engagement and split up after spending three years together. Since then, the actor has seemingly begun seeing a younger model, 25-year-old Inka Williams.

Channing and Inka attended a pre-Oscars party hosted by the Creative Artists Agency (CAA) at The Living Room in Los Angeles on February 28. They've also been seen together around town. One source confirmed the pair were "seeing" each other when speaking to People after reportedly meeting through mutual friends.

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"She's great. She has her own life. She's young but seems older," the source said of Inka.

"Channing's doing well. [Inka] makes him happy. He's reuniting with Zoë later this spring for another movie project. It shouldn't be too awkward; they ended things on okay terms."

Inka, who was born in Melbourne, Australia, and raised in Bali, Indonesia, is signed to IMG, a top global modeling agency. She previously said that her childhood in Bali shaped her into a "very compassionate person," and she later moved to London to grow her career.

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In addition to modeling, the 25-year-old also launched her own fashion brand, known as She Is I, in 2019. Her mother often made her clothing when she was a young girl, and she viewed the business venture as a way to continue her mom's "legacy in design and bring back to life her amazing relations from the '90s."

"I always knew one day I would try my best to create those timeless pieces from her wardrobe! I still wear the pieces she made and wore through the '80s, '90s, and 2000s," Inka wrote on her brand's website.

Channing and Inka both have yet to comment on public speculation about their supposed relationship. Nonetheless, she did post a story from the beach on her Instagram @inkawilliams, with the words "I love you" written on top of the sand.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

If you've been searching for a fun way to celebrate St. Patrick's Day with your little ones, look no further. Reading a children's book together is a great way to dive into the magic of Irish folklore, shamrocks, and leprechauns.

Here are some of the best St. Patrick's Day books to spark your kiddo's imagination and teach them about the spirit of the holiday.

Scroll to see our favorite St. Patrick's Day children's books!

Amazon

1. I'm A Leprechaun by Mallory Loehr

This book by Mallory Loehr and illustrated by Brian Biggs is a charming read for your youngest St. Patrick's Day celebrants. Recommended for ages 2 through 5, it introduces children to the playful world of leprechauns through simple, engaging text and vibrant illustrations.

The story highlights the fun-loving nature of these mythical creatures, who are known for their pranks, hidden pots of gold, and being talented shoemakers. It has an easy-to-follow storyline that's perfect for toddlers and preschoolers.

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2. Lucky Tucker by Leslie McGuirk

If you have a little one who loves four-legged friends, you can't go wrong with Lucky Tucker by Leslie McGuirk. This sweet story follows Tucker the terrier, who is having a rough time on St. Patrick's Day.

Well, that's until he stumbles upon a patch of four-leaf clovers. Little does he know this magical spot is home to a leprechaun who turns Tucker's luck around in the most wonderful way.

This heartwarming tale, fit for kids between the ages of 2 and 5, is perfect for young readers who enjoy fun animal stories and a touch of magic.

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3. Jamie O'Rourke and the Big Potato by Tomie DePaola

Jamie O'Rourke and the Big Potato by Tomie DePaola blends humor and life lessons in a way that captivates young readers. This classic children's book, recommended for ages 4 to 8, follows Jamie O'Rourke, who's known as the laziest man in all of Ireland, with a farm in disarray.

But when Jamie encounters a leprechaun and begins to grow a potato so large it seems almost magical, his luck takes a turn for the better. Yet, as the spud grows bigger, he starts to wonder if the giant gift is more trouble than it is worth.

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4. St. Patrick's Day, Here I Come! by D.J. Steinberg

This lively collection of poems, written by D.J. Steinberg and illustrated by Emanuel Wiemans, perfectly captures the spirit of St. Patrick's Day.

As a follow-up to Kindergarten, Here I Come!, this book uses fun, rhythmic verses to take kids ages 4 to 6 through all the exciting parts of the holiday, like wearing green, playing the bagpipes, and hunting for leprechauns. It has catchy lyrics and vibrant illustrations.

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5. It's Not Easy Being a Leprechaun by Marilyn Sadler

Written by Marilyn Sadler and illustrated by Stephanie Laberis, It's Not Easy Being a Leprechaun is a story about learning to embrace who you are. It's a delightful read for children 3 to 7 years old.

Connor O'Connor, a little leprechaun, isn't thrilled with his role in life and decides to use some magic to try out different jobs, such as being a carpenter, a fairy, and even a king. His adventures lead him to learn an important lesson about self-acceptance and appreciating his own unique qualities.

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6. The Leprechaun Under the Bed by Teresa Bateman

The Leprechaun Under the Bed, written by Teresa Bateman and illustrated by Paul Meisel, is a tale of unexpected friendship.

Brian O'Shea is a solitary leprechaun who enjoys a peaceful life. That's until a human named Sean McDonald builds a house right on top of Brian's underground abode. Despite their differences, a friendship begins to grow.

This humorous and whimsical book, intended for kiddos aged 4 to 8, serves as a reminder that even the most unlikely friendships can blossom.

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7. The Night Before St. Patrick's Day by Natasha Wing

Penned by Natasha Wing and illustrated by Amy Wummer, The Night Before St. Patrick's Day is a fun twist on the classic holiday story.

On the eve of March 17, Tim and Maureen set out to catch a leprechaun by putting up clever traps. Then, they wake up to the sight of green eggs and the sound of bagpipes and realize they actually caught one.

The only problem? They're not exactly sure what to do next. This story is full of surprises and will help get your kids between the ages of 4 and 8 into the St. Patrick's Day spirit.

Amazon

8. Patrick: Patron Saint of Ireland by Tomie dePaola

Last but not least, Patrick: Patron Saint of Ireland by Tomie dePaola is a beautifully illustrated book that introduces little ones to the life and legacy of Saint Patrick.

DePaola shares the story of Patrick's noble birth in Britain, his captivity in Ireland, and his eventual return to spread Christianity, founding the first Christian church in Ireland. It even touches on the famous legend of Patrick banishing snakes from Ireland!

This read is a stellar way to help children between the ages of 5 and 8 understand the importance of the holiday and the man behind it.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.