-
Top 5 Inspirational Books For Men
Having a quick glance through all the men’s style magazines, journals and blogs, you find a great deal of information about personal appearance, grooming etc.
From GQ to Esquire, The Sartorialist to Style Salvage, everyone is giving out tips and information about a gentleman’s style and how to find it, improve it or maintain it.
And all do a very fine job at that. However, Reuben and I strongly believe that style goes deeper than just your appearance. One’s personal style is something that lies deep within. It is mainly expressed through the medium of fashion/design but what many guys seem to lack is ‘mental style’.
I’m talking about their personal values; charisma, manners and intelligence. Why look so on point and attract many towards you, only to repel them because of your arrogance, lack of mental stimulation or timidness?
We’ve complied a list to our top 5 books that have given us inspiration to build on our own MENTAL STYLE. There are many that we’ve had to miss out due to the fact that us guys like things SHORT. To the point. And in digestible LISTS.
Anyhow please feel free to leave your comments and own personal recommendations.
1. Men are From Mars Woman are from Venus by John Gray
Yes it’s an oldie and I’m pretty sure most of you guys have read it already but it still has relevance in today’s world. Although traditional family set-ups are changing due to globalisation, and many are taking a more liberal stance on their religious faiths, there are still certain rules that will stand the test of time.
Our personal lives are becoming a lot more instant and mobile-more partners, less time etc.. This takes us back to the age-old rule of solid communication with those closest to us, and teaches us men to stop and actually listen, rather than waiting for our time to talk. It’s great for the ladies in your lives as well. The title, ‘Mr Fix-it Hat’ has never left me. Genius.
2. Tribes
For most Internet-using males, Seth Godin is a name that probably resonates with many. Godin has the most successful marketing blog on the planet. In his best selling book ‘Tribes’, he hits home his idea about becoming a leader and the importance of tribes.
It’s a great read if you are looking to boost your confidence or need some persuading in starting up a new business venue. The world is changing drastically and he wants each of us to stand up and be counted, regardless of what it is you stand for. So what are you waiting for?
3. Unlimited Power
You either love this guy or you don’t. Mocked by thousands around the world as an extreme optimist, yet Anthony Robbins has managed to change thousands of lives. His first book is an intense read but it will provide you with confidence galore. I’m thinking it will have a resurgence in sales for those of you who have just finished Dan Brown’s new book, ‘The Lost Symbol.’
By the time you finish, you’ll feel like this guy!4. The Sartorialist
A great reminder of the creativity of those across the globe. Scott Schuman is famous for snapping people in NYC, and when he was hired by GQ, he soon had tickets for flights jetting him across the world. This book is a compilation of all his best work.
Style, we say, is an ongoing thing. Like a journey, your style changes over time as you mature and is influenced by the things you pick up along the way. This book should give you the confidence to pull off the clothes you wouldn’t normally dare not try.
It’s helped those come out their comfort zone and reveal their true personal style. Go on and experiment. Just make sure it’s done tastefully. This is universally un-stylish, full stop!
5. Outliers
Written by renown New York Times journalist Malcolm Gladwell, ‘Outliers’ is the story of success. We can sometimes get sucked in by our over-optimistic look on life; there are those that just read Anthony Robbins whilst sat at home in their pants, waiting for their break, because they are thinking about it as they have just read ‘The Secret.’
Gladwell underlines the importance of hard work. It’s a harsh bite back to reality but for those that see its hidden message, it can provide hope that success isn’t just luck. It’s something that is earned, maybe longer for some than others, but it starts with a goal!
As Always,
Stay Stylish
Aaron . C
Related posts: New Years Resolution – Change
Twitter Page: www.twitter.com/individualism
Facebook Page: Individualism Group
-
New Year’s Resolution – CHANGE
This week’s quick-read post, inspired by the Inauguration of President Obama, it is simply about ‘Change’. There is no use reading about HOW to up your style game if you don’t actually DO it. Knowledge is only the potential of results.
“An educated man is not one who knows a lot. An educated man is one who ACTS on what he knows” (this is from a really good self-development book that I can’t remember the name of).
Follow our 10 tips and change the way you look and feel for the better. Feel free to post your comments and add your own tips on positive change.
Here goes. No looking back mudda-bitches!!!
1. Join the Gym - And stick to it. Clothes will ALWAYS look better with a fitter body. No extremities though. We don’t want you ending up looking this. Get a yearly plan worked out with a fitness instructor.
2. Try out a new piece of clothing - You never know, it may look good! That could be a colour, an accessory or a particular style. We grow by making mistakes and learning from them. Let’s not be drones!
3. ASK - If someone has something on that you like, ASK them where they got it from. You’ll be surprised how many times people appreciate the compliment and will willingly tell you (though if they say abroad, they’re usually lying.)
4. Join the Forum – and tell us what you want to know. It’s all about the wisdom of crowds, collective knowledge is strong, mighty mouse strong. There you can ask us where to get something or even how good or bad something looks.
5. Try out a new store - Simply walk into a shop that you have never visited before. Again, it’s about stepping out of your comfort zone, but that’s the beauty of it. You never know what you may find in a new store. Sticking to the same old shops will keep you in line like sheep alongside everyone else. Be a leader not a follower!
6. Look for colour combinations in advertising - Adverts are designed by graphic designers. Most of the time they have a great understanding of colours and the psychology behind them. Check out how certain colours work with each other on logos, billboards etc, and figure out if you can pull it off in an outfit.
7. Don’t just wear black - Too many guys resort to wearing black all the time when they go out because the think it looks slick. But, if everyone in the club is wearing black it’s NOT slick…it’s SHIT! Next time you reach for the black shirt or top, think about what else you could wear. Add some colour and personality to your look.
8. Visit a vintage store - For those of you who do, it’s a great thing. For a lot of people, it’s a place that reminds them of piss-smelling, second-hand clothes. But, contrary to popular belief, it’s a place filled with unique pieces. Even if you have a problem wearing used clothes, then at least pay a visit and pick up an accessory- something like a tie. It will never touch your body, you posh wannabes!
9. Give a piece of clothing you never wear to a charity store - We do it as often as we can. It may be those trainers that you feel you can wear one last time. Well it had its last time three years ago. ….it’s time to let go! There are loads of people out their that would benefit from what you never wear, so share.
10. Spread the love - It would be greatly appreciated if you could spread the word about our blog. The more people we can help, the better it is for everyone. Our mission is to change the face of British men’s style, and it begins with you guys, help us out lads! You know you want to.
Change my people, change. No doubts please. “Yes You Can”
Stay Stylish
Aaron & Reuben C.
Individualism - Making men more stylish
-
Welcome to Individualism.co.uk
Your one stop resource for men's style videos, podcasts, how to's, and style and fashion tips. Providing you with honest untainted advice and exclusive news and fashion updates ranging from streetwear to men's tailoring.
-
Sign up to the Individualism Mailing List
- Get in touch at contact@individualism.co.uk
Featured Videos