Reinvesting in Me

Because illustrating and writing for children is such an enjoyable occupation, it's sometimes easy to forget I'm also running a business.

An important aspect of running a business, whether it's a colorful, fun, stay-at-home business or a stodgy old necktie and pantyhose type place, is putting money back into the business. Equipment, supplies, training, and advertising are all part of doing business—ask any CEO out there.

Unfortunately, there's not a limitless supply of funds to reinvest. I have to be picky about how I spend the cash.

I have no qualms about purchasing the equipment and supplies I need, but when it comes to actually investing in the human resource side of things (that's me), my fist tightens around the money and some little voice inside of me says, "You don't really NEED that."

I hate that little voice. It's a liar.

When I look back at the ways I have invested in my career, I can't find a single investment that hasn't paid off. Some of my best investments have included business coaching, writing workshops, professional critiques, and SCBWI conferences.

Now I have to decide how I'm going to reinvest in myself this year. Advertising and education are at the top of my list, as is a laptop computer, so I can write at Starbucks with all the REAL writers. :-)

Possibilities include:

• Picture Book Ad
• LA Conference
• Dallas Conference
• Mazza Summer Institute
• Story Design 5-day Workshop
• Painter upgrade
• Laptop computer and T-Mobile account

I look forward to reinvesting in my business this year and watching it grow next year. I'm following a path, and everything I can do to help me skip a few yards is worth the investment.

Comments

[humblebee]

Thank you for sharing this little bit of wisdom with us Janee. Your thoughtfulness and planning will pay off! And I have to tell you, I just love that illustration.

[roz]

What a great post, Janee, that helps me a lot to have peace of mind about the 'reinvesting'in self.That's a tough one for me too.

[nic]

I've been trying to resist the painter upgrade, but you are right, it is an INVESTMENT...Ha!