7 Books for Entrepreneurial Mental Health

7 Life-Giving Books for Entrepreneurs & Creative Professionals

We're saturated in books, podcasts, and other "just work harder" content that's masquerading as self-help. Don't forget to feed your creative soul.

Misdiagnosis and Dual Diagnoses of Gifted Children and Adults: Adhd, Bipolar, Ocd, Asperger's, Depression, and Other Disorders

James T. Webb, Ph.D.

It says it's for kids, but it's just as applicable for adults. So many creatives and entrepreneurs are super smart, fast, sensitive, and/or neurodivergent - what we often call "Gifted." This is one of those books that all the other books are based on, even if they don't know it. I wish every entrepreneur would read this.

Braving the Wilderness: The Quest for True Belonging and the Courage to Stand Alone

Brené Brown

All of her work is exceptional. This book, in particular, speaks to the idea of belonging and standing alone, the latter of which is inherent to entrepreneurship, and the former of which is conspicuously absent.

Transitions: Making Sense Of Life's Changes

William Bridges

My favorite book regarding how to make sense of life's changes and navigating confusing times. Actual research was involved.

Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear

Elizabeth Gilbert

This book speaks to the mystery and magic of creating. Where do ideas come from? What do we do with them when they arrive? Whimsical yet grounded. A life-giving and empathetic read for creators.

Born Standing Up: A Comic's Life

Steve Martin

A transparent and, of course, funny look at the nature of "making it." Full of wisdom, empathy, compassion, and candor. Audiobook for this one.

Can't Even: How Millennials Became the Burnout Generation

Anne Helen Petersen

A critique of the unspoken work culture that Millennials were brought into and continue to foster: being always on, a deep sense of precarity, and inevitable burnout. More observational than research-driven, full of insights and moments of, "Oh wow, I'm glad someone finally put that into words."

The Storyteller: Tales of Life and Music

Dave Grohl

The lead singer of the Foo Fighters writes with candor, warmth, vulnerability, and joy. This book doesn't shy away from mental health, rather it leans right in. A "You're not alone" book for creators of all kinds. Audiobook for this one.

Next Up: Evidence-Based DIY Mental Health Resources ->

You're not alone. I work with Entrepreneurs & Creatives.

I'm a licensed counselor and executive coach and I specialize in entrepreneurs, intrapreneurs, social impact executives, and creative professionals. Before my masters degree and licensure, I spent 20 years as a professional athlete, creative professional, and entrepreneur. In face, I'm still a creative professional and entrepreneur, and I don't see that ever changing.

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A snapshot of my coaching clients:

How can I manage the high levels of stress and pressure that come with my role while maintaining my well-being?
Am I effectively balancing my professional responsibilities with my personal life and overall happiness?
What steps can I take to prevent burnout and maintain a healthy work-life integration while still achieving professional success?

How can I effectively manage the stress and pressure that comes with running my own business?
Am I taking enough time for self-care and maintaining a healthy work-life balance?
How can I effectively deal with the uncertainty and constant challenges that come with entrepreneurship without it affecting my mental health?
What can I do to improve my focus, concentration, and overall productivity?
How can I manage feelings of imposter syndrome and maintain self-confidence?
I feel like I'm on an island. Where can I get support when I don't know any other entrepreneurs?
How do I make wise decisions, knowing each has significant opportunity costs?

What leadership styles will work best for my team?
How can I navigate the emotional highs and lows that come with the creative process while maintaining stability?
How can I still be creative now that I'm a manager?
How can I overcome creative blocks and find inspiration when I feel stuck or unmotivated?
What strategies can I employ to manage self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and other negative thoughts that may hinder my creative progress?
How can I establish healthy boundaries with clients, collaborators, or colleagues to protect my mental and emotional well-being?
How can I embrace vulnerability in my creative work while also protecting my emotional boundaries?

Josh Chambers