‘Tis that time of year when thoughts turn to self-improvement.
 
Isn’t there always something to learn, something we could be doing better? I’m not talking craft here -- that’s a given. But what about all those other things that fall under the job description “writer”? Things like contracts and taxes and presentations and self-promotion?

As a poet in the adult market, I’ve encountered these beasts before, and it can be pretty intimidating. Especially when one is an INFJ and was born with white-knuckled stomach-churning voice-quivering fear of public speaking. (Anyone??)

So what’s a writer to do? Read, of course. Research. And get over it. (Look, if I can conquer this thing, anyone can.)

What follows is a list of resources that have helped me so far:

Brag! The Art of Tooting Your Own Horn Without Blowing It by Peggy Klaus

Public Speaking and Influencing Men in Business by Dale Carnegie (yes it’s archaic, yes it’s sexist, but it’s also a great resource)

How to Be That Guy by Scott Ginsberg (that guy with the nametag)

Deduct It! - Lower Your Small Business Taxes by attorney Stephen Fishman

Alphabetical Basic Concepts of Selling by Dale Brakhage

The Success Principles - How to Get from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be by Jack Canfield (cocreator of Chicken Soup for the Soul)

Perform at Your Best - Acting Techniques for Business, Personal & Social Success by Jane Marla Robbins

An Author’s Guide to Children’s Book Promotion by Susan Salzman Raab

The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Publishing Children’s Books (3^rd edition) by Harold D. Underdown (particularly chapter 30 “Do-It-Yourself Publicity” and chapter 31 “Back to School”)

A Meditation to Help You Improve Self-Confidence and Reach Peak Performance by Belleruth Naparstek (this is a guided imagery CD - love it!)