“Opportunities don’t happen, you create them.”
Chris Grosser
Finding your feet as a freelancer in a world where change is the only constant is like watching Spirit: Stallion of Cimarron (2002) and not crying, or hearing Circle of Life (Lion King,1994) and not singing in unison. It’s almost impossible but only if you don’t have the right tools.
Knowing, studying, and understanding the environment you are in, helps to create an opportunity to flourish and succeed beyond expectation. These three things are not only the keys to flourishing but also to survival.
It’s in our nature as humans to evolve accordingly and it’s in our nature to succeed in doing so! According to the New York Times Bestselling Author, Andy Andrews, there are seven, proven, keys to success: discipline, persistence, influence, coaching, having a personal mission statement, belief, and goal setting. All of these are discussed not only in our blogs but also in both animated films I mentioned above.
Spirit broke out of the chains that confined him, and (momentarily) flew with the eagle, Simba faced the demons of his past and became the king Nala knew he could be. They both did this with the help and guidance of some sort of mentor.
Behind the success of these films are creators who did not just stick to quality animation, but also understood the value of music or grasping the fundamentals of animation. To evoke emotion and quality work that creates a very successful profit. They understood the full picture, the whole environment. Now, how can you learn more from the world of business as a freelancer in animation?
The business side of things can seem daunting for a creative freelancer; ascending your hours to create amazing animations and finding yourself stuck with finances, creating leads, and marketing all while finding the time to research and stay with new trends.
Of course, the quick easy way would be taking our Masterclass and kicking off your business with proven strategies and learning applicable trade secrets, but for those overachieving animators here are five books you can read about freelancing.
Let's Dive Into The 5 Books About Freelancing!
Creative, Inc (2010)
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Published by Chronicle Books, successful business owner Meg Mateo, and well-known Blogger Joy Deangdeelert Cho give the best tips and tricks to master the freelancing world as they have both done. From creating portfolios to contracts and copyrighting, Creative Ink explores all the facets of Freelancing and how to master them successfully.
My So-Called Freelance Life (2008)
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Author, businesswoman, and freelancer, there is never a dull moment in the world of Freelancer Michelle Goodman. She answers all of the atypical questions that all freelancers have. She’s also the author of The Anti 9-to-5 Guide (2010) which also discusses ways to find a balance between your passion and building a career from that passion.
This book engages the creative in a positive thunk. Giving the motivational speaker in your mind a volume boost and encouraging you to drown out all the gloomy, colorless, excessive voices in your life ( Voices that seem to come as a bundle deal as soon as you make that jump to Freelance.)
Michelle introduces an array of ideas and tips like: “Business plan on the go”- a short pen-to-paper plan that reminds you of your goals-, marking your territory as a freelancer- not only physically but in the world of freelancing too- making a name for yourself and setting knowledgeable boundaries within your business, that aids your success.
Michelle writes with humor and honesty helping all freelancers in true feminist spirit as her book speaks to all freelancers, just as feminism fights for equal rights for all.
Book Yourself Solid Illustrated (2013)
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According to Bay Atlantic University’s article: Show, Don’t Tell: What it Means to Be a Visual Learner, visual learners are more prone to pursuing an artistic career.
Do you find yourself remembering the finer details? Do you remember the beautiful houses and scenery? Or even flowers on route to your destination, but the directions seem to slip your mind? Like to observe before you feel comfortable enough to engage in an environment? Then this book is for you!
This book aids each freelancer to understand the importance of a good (and healthy) relationship with their clients. Something that can be a challenge for introverts, but neither impossible nor as daunting as it may seem. By designing a strategy that develops trust and credibility for interested and possible clients. This plan is devised in ways to be engaging, charming, and above all-unforgettable.
Michael Port understood the assignment and took the concepts, strategies, and techniques for successful Freelancers and business owners in general and collaborated with an illustrator: Jocelyn Wallace to present a visual medium for marketing and selling yourself and your product.
The book helps Freelancers understand how to create a thirst for their product and build sustainable leads by becoming trustworthy referrals as well as building a network of new and recurring clients.
The Business Side of Creativity (2002)
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Published by W W Norton & Co Inc. Cameron Foote, discusses the competitive market in the Creative freelance community and how many people take advantage of your inexperience in business. Competition is important, and it is a stepping stone to your success if you’re ahead of the competition. One way to get there is by reading this updated version of the marketing genius.
Foote writes a to-the-point guide to successful freelancing. It’s the perfect read for a freelancer who is still in the planning stages, giving you important ideas to consider before making a commitment. This book is filled with feasible, constructive advice and critiques. If Wisdom were to be a weapon in the war of negative commentators on Freelancing creatives, this book would be it.
Rethink the Business of Creativity 2020
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In the fast-paced world of creative industries, it's easy to fall into the trap of working long hours and risking burnout. However, this book encourages readers to reassess their priorities, approach, and creative output.
Written by the minds behind Rethink, one of the world's most awarded advertising and design agencies, this book serves as a comprehensive guide for companies in the creative arts. By sharing 55 tried-and-true tools for fostering a sustainable and successful creative culture, "Rethink" empowers readers to inspire their teams, boost their bottom line, and elevate their creative product to new heights.
These simple yet effective methods help cut through the noise at every stage of the creative process, inspiring your freelance business to adopt a radical, refreshing, and relatable plan for achieving creative excellence. Delve into the wisdom of "Rethink" and unlock the potential of a balanced, efficient, and extraordinary creative journey.
Broaden Your Mind with These Books About Freelancing & Never Stop Learning
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Broadening your mind with these books about freelancing is an excellent way to invest in your personal and professional growth. By delving into the wisdom and experiences of industry experts, you'll gain invaluable insights to help navigate the ever-evolving world of freelancing.
Embrace the opportunity to learn from the successes and challenges of others, and apply that knowledge to your own freelance journey. Remember, a curious and open mind is the key to unlocking your full potential, fostering innovation, and ultimately, achieving success in your freelance career. So, keep learning, stay inspired, and watch your freelance business flourish!
For more information about freelancing books for animators, as well as answers to any other questions you might have, be sure to follow our blogs, check out our free masterclass, and our Animation Business Accelerator Program, download a copy of our free marketing handbook, and check out our blog on “How to Start an Animation Studio”!
