Devoted to small businesses and those who run them

In addition to the book titles I've already mentioned, it's important to get to know your field through periodicals and online resources.  I enjoy the various types of magazines available to writers, but I've only chosen to subscribe to a few of them. 

• The Writer is one of the two I've kept my subscription to.  Published by Kalmbach Publishing, this magazine usually has something I find useful in every issue.
• Writer's Digest is my other preferred publication for writers.  WD also delves into a lot of other concepts, such as the Writer's Digest Book Club and publishing endeavors already described.

Other publications I've read include Poets & Writers Magazine and Writers' Journal.  From time to time I've enjoyed both of these magazines but not enough to continue my subscriptions.  I now pick them up on the newsstand after flipping through and deciding whether I will really use the issue in hand.

All four of these publications offer websites with multiple resources, such as market listings, contests, writing courses, networking/mentor opportunities and affiliate programs (since you're building your writing website like we discussed a few weeks ago, you'll want to learn about residual income from affiliates, right?).

I estimate there are probably thousands of websites offering more resources to writers as well.  My colleague Jason Boog over at ThePublishingSpot.com has a ton of great information for fledgling freelance writers, including a great interview concept called "Five Easy Questions".  One of the things I've always enjoyed about writing magazines is the interviews with successful authors.  This is where all of us can sit back and dream and set goals...so we can be like them when we "grow up".

The best advice for any writer...write.  Churn out as many words as you can, about whatever you are thinking at the time.  Don't let the concept of writer's block cloud your vision.  If you want to be a published writer, find your market and fill it.  Remember, this is a business like any other.  Keep plugging along and don't forget about the business side of things and you'll be listed on these sort of resources lists yourself some day!