Recent research has confirmed what many already assumed about high self-esteem: that it can lead to positive outcomes in various aspects of life. American Psychologist discovered that people with high self-esteem found more success professionally, enjoyed better social relationships, and improved mental and physical health. However, self-esteem can be challenging to achieve in the competitive fashion industry. The International Conference on Addiction and Associated Disorders notes that people in fashion are 25% more likely to experience depression and anxiety than in any other industry. These conditions are closely associated with lower confidence levels, which is why fashion professionals need to seek valuable resources to improve this.
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Reading has been connected to improved self-confidence; avid readers are 10% likelier to report high self-esteem than non-readers. However, since models, designers, and other fashion professionals tend to have busy schedules, audiobooks are ideal for an on-the-go confidence boost. The good news is that they are now easily accessible through online subscription services. In particular, Everand's audiobook selection features a wide range of titles to improve self-esteem, with thousands of additions every month to enjoy across mobile devices. From WeWoreWhat founder Danielle Bernstein's This is Not a Fashion Story: Taking Chances, Breaking Rules, and Being a Boss in the Big City to The Confidence Code: The Science and Art of Self-Assurance – What Women Should Know by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman, these titles carry valuable confidence lessons for fashion newbies and veterans alike. Audiobooks could be an on-demand pep talk for surviving and thriving in fashion, whether on your way to a go-see or mentally prepping for a show. Here are a few more titles to consider:
A New Model: What Confidence, Beauty, and Power Really Look Like
Research from Florida State University found that women report healthier self-image and can relate to fashion ads better when seeing more plus-size models. This is what model and body positivity movement icon Ashley Graham has been known for since she revolutionized the industry in the 2010s as the first plus-sized cover girl of Sports Illustrated. Today, Graham's essay collection in A New Model reflects her thoughts in an interview with The Cut – that models are perceived to be very confident but, in reality, are prone to insecurity. For the author, confidence must be taught, and hard work must be done to nurture it. Graham shares her unique perspective on body image acceptance in this inspiring audio memoir, from her early years of seeking gigs to the judgments she continues to face. She also offers tips for boosting self-confidence and tells relatable anecdotes to help readers find their feet in an industry rooted in attractiveness and validation.
You Are Awesome: How to Navigate Change, Wrestle with Failure, and Live an Intentional Life
Making it in the cutthroat, competitive fashion industry is challenging; for instance, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates only 400 openings for models each year. It may take various failures to crack the industry, let alone get your big break in fashion as any creative professional. Thus, author Neil Pasricha, who has gone through his share of failures himself, shares research-backed models on how to best rise from failure. Specifically, he lists nine story-based secrets to help aspiring fashion pros build resilience, reframe self-perceptions, and become a more confident version of themselves. These takeaway-heavy titles are particularly effective in audiobook form because it can be hard to pick up a book when dealing with rejection from a huge opportunity; listening to the insights from this book can provide soft encouragement in the background – and serve as fuel for starting anew.
The Woman I Wanted to Be
Previously, we shared Victoria Peyton's inspiring story as a model, which began when she arrived in New York and realized the fashion industry was her destiny. These are the footsteps that many women have led before her, including the legendary Diane von Furstenberg, who built her artistic foundations across Europe before settling in NYC to build her DVF brand. Now, in this autobiography, readers get an insider peek into how the creator of the iconic wrap dress conquered enormous obstacles, from being the daughter of a Nazi concentration camp survivor to overcoming a tongue cancer diagnosis. In addition, von Furstenberg shares her unique philosophy on finding confidence as she ages and embracing her true beauty for what it represents. This poignant retelling provides the perspective of a mentor who's seen and done it all. As younger generations enter the fashion world, this audiobook reminds them that ageism can be defied and that no hindrance is too insurmountable for success.