The wild world of self-publishing never stops. That’s why every Friday, we share the best of what our staff has been reading this week.

Challenge Yourself Versus Setting Yourself Up to Fail from Janice Hardy

When life gets hectic, don’t give up or feel like you’re failing. Janice Hardy shares tips from her personal experience with a busy schedule to meet writing goals and push yourself forward—no matter what life throws your way.

How to Write Faster and Never Get Writer’s Block from Joanna Penn

Beat the block! Learn how to write faster and be more confident in your craft so you can churn out better writing more frequently.

Are You on LinkedIn Yet? from Lisa J. Jackson

If you’re not using LinkedIn professionally as an author yet, you should read this article.

10 rock-solid reasons why authors should build an email list  from Joan Stewart

Building an email database is what all successful companies do—so why shouldn’t you as an author? Read Joan’s tips on why and how an email list can help boost your career as an author.

How to Write a Book Blurb from Jeri Walker

Having great back cover copy can mean the difference between someone buying a copy of your book and passing on it for something more intriguing. Here’s how to write a great book blurb so you can capture new readers and win over new fans.

Avast! Piracy and the Self-Publisher from David Kudler

Ahoy matey! Worried ye ebook might be captured by a band o’ pirates? Here’s what to do to protect ye intellectual property online.

Do You Insult Your Readers? Resist the Urge to Explain from Terry Odell

The age old saying “show, don’t tell” is key.

7 Unexpected Reasons You’re Not Living Up to Your Potential from Jennifer Gresham

“The conventional advice on success largely holds us back. Here are 7 reasons you’re still not where you want to be in life, and how to (finally) arrive.”

What’s Your Reader Retention Plan? from Jami Gold

Keeping readers engaged is your number one priority (besides writing). Here are a few tips to make them stay.

 Happy reading!