Spark Your Creativity & Collaboration

I love to read, but I'll admit, I'm not someone who can read a book all the way through if I've lost interest. And these days, even a good book read at the end of the day (my only window), will put me to sleep - so if it's not good, I probably won't pick it up again. 😶‍🌫️

The nonfiction books I gravitate towards often talk about how our minds work, and how to support healthy, sustainable change in myself and or working towards a bigger vision.

Over the years I've accumulated a list of books that have shifted how I see and think about change - some business and leadership and some holistic, behavioral science and some more philosophical and spiritual. My husband jokes my books have pictures of a fish leaping out fishbowls - and I've laughed that I always pick up books that are some version "how your brain works" (art, nature, water, awe, emotions, play, motivation, etc.)

I always love getting others' reading lists, and so decided I'd share out a few of my favorite reads in themed chunks.

This is by no means exhaustive, but it includes some of my most frequently recommended and re-read books.

Pro Tip: If you like to listen vs. read, some of these authors are featured on podcasts, or you can always download the audio book from your local library.

So without further ado, here's my first list focused on unleashing your best creativity and collaboration.

Creativity & Collaboration Reading List

1. Collaborative Intelligence — Dawna Markova & Angie McArthur

​ A guide to understanding diverse thinking styles and leveraging them for better communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.

2. Your Brain on Art — Susan Magsamen & Ivy Ross

​ A fascinating look at how artistic and creative experiences reshape the brain, deepen connection, and improve well-being.

3. Gamestorming: A Playbook for Innovators, Rulebreakers, and Changemakers — Dave Gray, Sunni Brown & James Macanufo

​ A collection of creative, collaborative exercises designed to help teams generate ideas, solve problems, and innovate together.

4. The Power of Awe — Jake Eagle & Michael Amster

​ A method for using micro-moments of awe to reduce stress, ease burnout, and increase

5. Whole Brain Living — Jill Bolte Taylor

​ A framework for understanding four distinct brain “characters” that influence our emotions, thoughts, and choices.

Stay playful,

Allie

P.S. Let me know if you have any others I should add to my reading list please!

“Creativity is the brain’s invisible muscle — that when used and exercised routinely — becomes better and stronger.” — Ashley Ormon

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Many leaders in new or changing roles feel stuck between their big vision and the daily demands pulling them off course. I help you gain clarity, reconnect to what matters, and align your team so you can bring your vision to life with confidence.