Congratulations! You almost made it through 2019. By now, you should have put a major dent in your goal list, generated an additional $5K in monthly revenue, and on-boarded a slew of new clients to your roster.

Wishful thinking, right?

I get it - you’re probably wondering, “How in the heck am I going to have time to read a book when I’ve got client work, proposals and invoices to complete?” Well friend, even the busiest of freelancers can carve out 20-30 minutes a day to pick up a book. Studies have shown that reading not only heightens brain connectivity, but it can also reduce stress and improve memory. For freelancers specifically, reading is an opportunity to learn more about your specific industry, emerging trends and simply put, to take your eyes off of a computer screen.

You might not have time in your busy schedule to create your own book club, but it is possible to make time to read a few books. Here are seven books we recommend for freelancers at any stage of their career.

1. You're A Bad Ass At Making Money: Master the Mindset of Wealth by Jen Sincero
   We all have the ability to make money for our genius. In this book, Jen Sincero outlines mantras for freelancers, entrepreneurs and creatives to think differently about how to reach and exceed their income goals.

2. Dear Freelancer by Brittany Melton
   There are a ton of books out there that talk about how to get into freelancing, but not a lot that discuss the mental and emotional investment that you have to make as well. Web designer Brittany Melton shares her story and lessons that she has learned in her career along the way.

3. Build Your Dream Network: Forging Powerful Relationships in a Hyper-Connected World by J. Kelly Hoey
   So you’ve figured out your offerings and set your prices, but what about getting the word out about your services? Networking guru, author, and investor J. Kelly Hoey shares practical ways you can grow your network authentically.

4. Everybody Writes: Your Go-To Guide to Creating Ridiculously Good Content by Ann Handley
   As the saying goes, “Content is king” so if you’re a content creator, it’s imperative that you get good at writing well. In this handy guide, marketing expert Ann Handley shares the tips and tools on creating a sound strategy around content creation, publishing and production.

5. Influencer: Building Your Personal Brand in the Age of Social Media by Brittany Hennessy
   Social media is without a doubt a gateway for much of the world’s connectivity. But as a freelancer, are you using it intentionally? Best-selling author and influential marketing expert Brittany Hennessy breaks down the major keys on how to pitch to your favorite companies, make money for being yourself, and grow your audience in the process.

6. How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
   For many people, this book is an oldie but goodie. Dale Carnegie shares timeless gems on what it takes to achieve success both professionally and personally, and maximize your potential.

7. Freelancers Bible by Sara Horowitz
   It wouldn’t be a complete book list if we didn’t include the founder of Freelancers Union, now would it?! This book is a favorite among many freelancers, and provides those new and not-so-new to freelancing with guidelines on everything from setting fees and writing contracts to finding the right health insurance and branding your services correctly.

What are some titles that are on your personal reading list? Tweet us at @freelancersu to let us know!