Brandmerry Blog Archives
5 Must-Read Books for 2021
If you’re like me you’ve made it a goal to read a bit more in 2021. I know finding the next book is something of a daunting task, so I’m sharing some of my favorites reads from 2020 and previous to give you a solid place to start.
5 Must-Read Books for 2021
BY MICHELLE KNIGHT
I feel like every year I make it a goal to read a little bit more.
Truth be told, slowing down is not easy for me, so picking up a book nightly sometimes feels like a chore. However, years ago I discovered that educational books and motivating books are my jam (who’s surprised truly?)!
I can easily lose myself in a book that helps me live a more aligned and intentional life.
So you’ll see a trend here in my top reads for 2021 and I hope they motivate you if you find that reading romance novels, murder mystery and fantasy just aren’t your jam. BTW no shame there sometimes I wish I could dive into them, but alas after more than 33 years on this earth I know what I like.
Are you similar? Then this list is for you!
5 MUST-READ BOOKS FOR 2021
These are some of my favorite books I’ve read over the past few years, but one I’m looking forward to most in 2021 (more on that later). Happy Reading!
1. ATOMIC HABITS BY JAMES CLEAR
I’m a BIG fan of James Clear and his work and teaching on habits. In fact, this book changed my life and I’m not exaggerating. I shared more about my journey with habits and how this book shaped my 2020 and beyond on this podcast episode of The Beautiful Climb Podcast.
James has an amazing way of presenting the data and stories around building habits and how the work of habits sets you up for success. I’ve pretty much recommended this book to everyone I know and my clients, it’s that good!
If you haven’t read it and you’re a human, it’s time to order it!
2. RICH AS F*CK: MORE MONEY THAN YOU KNOW WHAT TO DO WITH BY AMANDA FRANCIS
As an entrepreneur, I’ve been following Amanda Francis’ work for quite some time. Although, I understand there are a lot of mentors and leaders around money mindset, I’ve found her work and way of teaching just resonates most with me. I’ve invested in her programs and found this book to provide the same exceptional value (although not a substitute for her courses).
I read this book in just 14 days, which might be a record for me. It shares her story and her teachings around money mindset in a non-bull shit way while being super motivating.
It’s a must-read for anyone in 2021 if this is the year you get your money story focused on abundance rather than lack.
I’ve had quite the journey with money as a woman, and talk about it in detail on this podcast episode.
3. I’M STILL HERE: BLACK DIGNITY IN A WORLD MADE FOR WHITENESS BY AUSTIN CHANNING BROWN
Like many of you, the events of the Black Lives Matter movement in 2020 brought a lot of my upbringing and pre-programmed beliefs to the surface. While I’ve always tried to be an advocate for black lives and persons of color, I recognized that I was also lacking so much education on what it really meant to be an ally.
I found Austin Channing Brown’s work as I researched more ways to try and understand more about the Black Lives Matter movement and what it’s like as a black person in America and while I’ll never truly understand as a white woman, I found this book to be beautiful, heartbreaking and eye opening all at the same time.
I truly believe we don’t know what we don’t know, but when we know we have to do better. This book is an excellent example of great storytelling in general, but through Brown’s stories, you also develop a deeper understanding of what’s truly happening in our country.
Once again I recommend this book to everyone and love all the information Brown provides on social media and beyond.
4. UNTAMED BY GLENNON DOYLE
If there’s ever been a book that made me gasp, cry, shake my head vigorously and stop every 5 minutes to read a line to my husband it is Untamed by Glennon Doyle.
Seriously, THIS BOOK! It might be one of my favorite non-fiction books to date because of the impact it has had on me as a woman and mother. It’s a beautiful and honest reminder of what living a life of alignment and freedom really means and how it’s different for each of us.
This book almost gave me a level of permission I had been seeking. To strip away old generation stories around what makes a woman a woman and how to be a “good” person. If you’re a womxn it’s time for you to get your hands on this book.
5. WE SHOULD ALL BE MILLIONAIRES BY RACHEL RODGERS
Ok, so technically at the time of writing this blog post this book hasn’t been released yet, but that won’t stop me!
I’m most looking forward to the first book by Rachel Rodgers in 2021 for so many reasons. Not only is Rachel a mentor of mine through her membership community, but one of my favorite discoveries to come out of 2020. Her book, mission and work is so inspiring and needed because like her I also believe we should all be millionaires.
There is no doubt in my mind that this book will be one of those life-changing reads that we come back to time and time again. If you’re looking to feel empowered around making more money in business, this book is going to be a must for you as it is for me.
P.S. Have you tuned in to The Beautiful Climb podcast? I release new episodes every other Friday on topics around productivity, motherhood, habits, goals and going after the life of your dreams! Check out past episodes and be sure to subscribe at thebeautifulclimb.com
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MEET MICHELLE
Hey there, I'm Michelle Knight and I an online branding and marketing consultant for female entrepreneurs.
I believe in the power of storytelling and using that superpower to brand and market yourself online...oh and to set yourself free.
I'm obsessed with living a life of freedom, so much so, that my family and I now travel full-time while running my business from the road.
This blog serves as a home base for all things branding, marketing, content creation and more.
My 2019 Summer Reads for Life and Business
As an entrepreneur, it’s so important that we focus on our personal development and nothing is easier to consume than a book (or audio) in my opinion. In today’s blog, I’m sharing my must-reads for Summer 2019 and why I’m so excited to implement the tools and inspiration into my life and business.
My 2019 Summer Reads for Life and Business
June 21, 2019
Last year I shared a blog on The Top 7 Books Every Entrepreneur Should Read and you loved it. I followed it up with Must-Read Personal and Professional Books for 2019.
I know that books (and audio) are some of the best ways to advance your personal and professional development.
And, as I’ve admitted before, reading is not something that just comes “natural” to me. In fact, I have to create a habit around taking the time to silence my mind and dive into a great read.
What I’ve found over the past three years of running my business is that I gain so much clarity around my next steps and content and resources to share with you when I immerse myself in a book written for personal development.
So, today I’m sharing four of my favorite reads for Summer 2019 (some of which I’ve already read and a few I’m diving into soon) so you can run to your favorite book store and grab a copy.
P.S. If you’re looking for inspiration in your biz and feeling a little lost or uninspired, reading is my secret weapon and always gets my energy and thoughts in alignment to share content.
SUMMER READ #1
OWN YOUR EVERYDAY BY JORDAN LEE DOOLEY
I gave this book a shout out on Instagram Stories while reading it on the beach in Florida and had to include it in this list. If you’re not already a fan of Jordan, I fully believe you need to follow her. I was inspired by her story while attending the Kajabi Summit in March and started following her on social.
I had no idea she was releasing a book at the time, but when I learned more about her work I wanted to dive in. Her ability to merge personal story with life lessons is amazing and one of my favorite parts about her book.
The tagline for Own Your Everyday is Overcome the Pressure to Prove and Show Up for What You Were Made to Do and it’s such an amazing book for the everyday woman (that’s you and I btw). She talks about our need to be perfect, to have it all figured out and bring such light and grace to the personal development space. Check it out here.
SUMMER READ #2
GIRL STOP APOLOGIZING BY RACHEL HOLLIS
I’ve talked about Rachel’s books before and if you don’t know who she is, I’m afraid you might be living under a rock at this point. Rachel has taken the personal development world by storm and is such an amazing brand to watch and study (hello, I’m a branding nerd).
This is the second book, following Girl, Wash Your Face, and I was so fortunate to receive an advance copy. I highly recommend checking out this book as a summer read, especially if you carry shame in asking for and reaching for your goals. Buy it here.
SUMMER READ #3
JUDGEMENT DETOX BY GABRIELLE BERNSTEIN
I’m a little late to the party here, but I’m such a fan of Gabby’s and the way her book The Universe Has Your Back transformed my belief around money and releasing the HOW.
I think one of the best things we can do as business women is to release the past stories we carry that affect where we want to go. If you’ve got big, audacious goals (and I know you do) then it’s time to go the past story work. I’m excited to read Gabby’s book and dive into the 6-step process she presents in the book. Buy it here.
SUMMER READ #4
HIGH-PERFORMING HABITS BY BRENDON BURCHARD
If you’re a friend of mine you know my obsession with Brendon Burchard and the work he is doing in the world. Another amazing speaker I met at the Kajabi Summit and was brought to church by his words.
When I finally dove into High-Performing Habits I felt like he was speaking directly to me. I’ve only felt this way one other time and that was reading Daring Greatly by Brene Brown! This book made me laugh and cry and understand my high-performance habits better than before.
I love Brendon’s work because it’s so deeply rooted in research, so if you’re a nerd like me I highly suggest grabbing this book this Summer. Buy it here.
Do you have a favorite book you’ve read or are excited to dive into this Summer? Let me know in the comments below!
P.S. Are we connected on Instagram? No? Well lady what’s happening here we’ve got to fix that. Come hang out with me on my favorite social media platform. Follow for inspiration and send me a DM to know we’re connected.
Must-Read Personal and Professional Books for 2019 + 3 of My All Time Favorites
Must-Read personal and professional Books for 2019
+ 3 of My All Time Favorites
February 4, 2019
I remember a time when the only thing I would read was a Nicholas Sparks book - no joke.
Not to mention the only time I would even pick up said Nicholas Sparks book was on vacation.
I had convinced myself I didn’t have time to read or didn’t need to read (yes, I understand how ridiculous that sounds).
When I dove head first into entrepreneurship I became consumed with personal development, all my entrepreneurs know this feeling, and I became obsessed with learning as much as I could.
It wasn’t until I started seeing results from what I was reading that I realized this is an essential part of growing. Now I make it a priority to read weekly, both a mix of personal development and professional development books.
As we set out on our year-long (heck, maybe longer) journey of full-time travel I’m gearing up to load my Kindle with must reads.
Today, I’m sharing what’s on my reading list for 2019 + some of my personal favorites that I find myself re-reading or quoting on the regular.
MY PERSONAL FAVORITES
Anything Brene Brown, but seriously I’m not even kidding! Some of my personal favorites are Daring Greatly and Braving the Wilderness. If you struggle with perfectionism she is your girl!
The Universe Has Your Back by Gabby Bernstein. Struggle with trusting? I get that and this book changed so much for me in terms of leaning fully into my goals and trusting the process, even if I didn’t always understand it.
Girl Wash Your Face by Rachel Hollis. I’m really hoping you have heard of this book, I mean how could you not, it took the world by storm and for good reason. It’s an amazing book and so beautifully told, I highly recommend!
MUST-READS FOR 2019
Clockwork by Mike Michalowicz
I’m halfway through this book and it is blowing my mind. If you’re looking for strategic ways to grow your business without working more this is a must read.
The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg
I’m obsessed with creating habits in 2019 and making sure that every single day I’m taking action to get me towards my goal and living a more intentional life. I’ve heard amazing things about this book.
High Performance Habits by Brendan Burchard
Speaking of habits, this book by Brendan Burchard has been a must-read for a while, but this year I’m truly diving into the idea of high performance and studying more of the psychology behind what makes people successful.
The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy
This book dives into what makes people truly successful! Did I mention it is a complete system? Sign this girl up.
Primal Branding by Patrick Hanlon
Branding is my jam, so I’m always excited to learn more not just about branding, but WHY people buy.
Michelle Obama DUH!
I want to know what books are you loving right now or are currently sitting in your Amazing shopping cart? Head over to Instagram and let me know!
Top 7 Books Every Female Entrepreneur Should Read
Top 7 Books Every Female Entrepreneur Should Read
BY MICHELLE KNIGHT
In honor of #NationalBookLoversDay I'm sharing my top seven books that are must-reads for female entrepreneurs.
I've got to be honest, I was never much of a reader unless you count the occasional hopeless-romantic Nicholas Sparks book I read on vacation. However, all of that changed when I became an entrepreneur. I became obsessed with learning as much as I could around mindset, running a business and moving through my biggest block - perfectionism.
When I say these books completely changed my life, it's an understatement. Through these books I've been able to:
↠ Revamp my mindset around money and my ability to make it.
↠ Own my own story and start to move through my blocks around perfectionism.
↠ Embrace my vulnerability and use it as a strength when running my business.
Please note this blog contains affiliate links to these products, so if you choose to buy, I will receive a small compensation. I only refer products I absolutely love!
My Top Book Recommendations For Female Entrepreneurs
1. you are a badass at making money
I highly suggest you listen to the audio of this book because Jen Sincero is seriously hilarious with her delivery. This was one of the first books I was introduced to and would listen on my 9 to 5 commute.
This book gave me the a** kicking I was looking for to start making significant changes in my life. Jen has such a witty way of holding a mirror up to your current life and situation and gives you the tools and shifts to start feeling, thinking and acting differently.
2. daring greatly
What can I say about Brene Brown - I mean I seriously love this woman. She's changed my life with the resources and insight she provides through her work. For my entire life, I've struggled with perfectionism, but it wasn't until I started diving into her books that I realized how this had been holding me back for years.
This is only one of Brene's books you will find in this list, but Daring Greatly supported me in truly embracing my vulnerability and empowered me to start sharing my story with the world.
3. Get Rich, Lucky Bitch
I remember flying through this book in January 2017. I was going through an unexpected money situation in my business (i.e., taxes were due and I didn't know what I was doing just yet) and needed some mental support and clarity around moving through my fear of not having enough $$$.
Right off the bat, Denise Duffield-Thomas mentioned she was a Virgo, I was hooked. I loved her approach to manifesting and the actionable steps she taught. I implemented all of them right away and continue to do the work from this book monthly. In fact, anytime I'm feeling a money block I re-read this book (which has been more times than I can count ;))
4. You Are a Badass At Making Money
Another one of my favorites around making money is from Jen Sincero; I told you I love this ladies style. What I absolutely loved about Jen's book was how she addressed the stories around money; the ones we've learned from our parents, friends and society in general.
This was one of the first times I really started to question the idea of money and my ability to make it in my business. If you're struggling with old thought patterns around money, this is a must read.
5. The universe has your back
The description of this book says it all, "Transform Fear to Faith" and this book does just that. Talk about an emotional book to really address the way fear was running my life. As someone who lived most of her life constantly afraid of what could happen, this book was a gift.
My favorite part of this book are the actionable steps and questions Gabby Bernstein gives you so you can actually do the work. This definitely isn't a book you'll want to just fly through; seriously do the work and you will be truly changed.
6. How Rich People Think
I'm not going to lie when skimming this book, in the beginning, I was reluctant to read it. However, when I finally got over my need to be thoroughly entertained, I dove in and was blown away by the work of Steve Siebold.
It gives you an insider look at how rich people truly think and shows the thoughts, habits and philosophies of the wealthy. It's another top book that introduced me to the idea that making money has more to do with mindset then I initially thought.
7. The Gifts of Imperfection
I have to close out this list with another one of my favorite's from Brene Brown, seriously check out ALL her books! In this book, Brene introduces the idea of Wholehearted living and addresses the shame, authenticity and worthiness that comes from struggling with perfectionism.
If you are a recovering or current perfectionist and you read one book, let it be this one. Through Brene's work I was able to start fully stepping into my worthiness and authenticity and as a result my business and the trust I was building within my community expanded.
P.S. If you’re a female entrepreneur, I’ve got a free gift just for you! I’m sharing how to Build a Better Brand in this free class. Sign up here.
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Meet Michelle
Hey there, I'm Michelle Knight and I an online branding and marketing consultant for female entrepreneurs.
I believe in the power of storytelling and using that superpower to brand and market yourself online...oh and to set yourself free.
I'm obsessed with living a life of freedom, so much so, that my family and I now travel full-time while running my business from the road.
This blog serves as a home base for all things branding, marketing, content creation and more.
Books to Ignite Your Motivation
Becoming a entrepreneur is no easy task. It takes time, dedication and a few sacrifices to get your business up and running. However, and correct me if I'm wrong, but you probably shared the same goal I had when launching our business, that you desired flexibility and ease. Ok good we are on the same page. Then why does it sometimes feel exhausting working on our businesses?
It's because we don't take time for ourselves!
I plan to do a whole series on self care, but what better way to kick off than with a list of some truly inspirational books? Part of my self care routine is making sure I am feeding my mind with truly inspirational, positive and empowering literature.
Just like you, I don't always have the time to sit down and actually read a book especially while working 9 to 5 and raising a little one. So I have found my new best friend is Audible.
There are many resources out there for listening to your books, but honestly I found Audible and ran with it. I love listening to my books because it allows me to fit them in on my drive to and from work.
Some books to get you started:
- You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life by Jen Sincero
- The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks
- Leveraging the Universe by Mike Dooley
- The Science of Getting Rich by Wallace D. Wattles
- What I Know for Sure by Oprah Winfrey
- Year of Yes: How to Dance It Out, Stand In the Sun and Be Your Own Person by Shonda Rhimes
I'm a big fan of Oprah's What I Know for Sure as a quick and SUPER effective read. I'm also such a huge fan of You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero, so much that I've listened to it three times already - I seriously can't say enough great things about the messages in this book.
I hope this list gives you a jumping off point. Remember, self care is so important not only for our own well-beings, but also for our business.