Michael H — I agree about reading outside your industry. I read anything that looks interesting. I find stuff at Borders, the library, and on other people’s Websites and blogs. Plus, now authors send books to me!

You’re absolutely right about the scope of reading a person needs too. I personally like biographies, psychology and various human interest stuff. As well as anything on the topic of design, branding or marketing.

Because I’m not a “writer” I try to assign my ‘1 hour in the morning’ to writing and an hour at night to reading.

Some freelancer-types might find this easier to do than others however. Some freelance designers, illustrators and photographers (and other creative professionals) may feel a little out of their element with this routine – as compared to those who are freelance writers (I know I used to).

But your point is well taken – Read. Read with scope. And read often.

You can’t keep going to the well if you don’t replenish what’s there. Sooner or later you’re gonna run dry.

I try to read a lot of topics which is both fun and interesting as I am learning about stuff that isn’t just business. Personally I like a lot of history and various forms of fiction such as science fiction. These don’t necessarily teach you a specific business technique, but I believe it helps your writing just the same.

Regarding the time to do it. Brain Tracy, whom is a big advocate of reading, recommends blocking out 1 hour every morning and reading before you start work. By using his math he says that this can translate into 50 books per year and put you at the top of your profession very quickly. I like the technique and have been doing it for a year or so. I am not always perfect and miss days or don’t do the full hour, but I can say that the amount of reading I have managed to do in a year has definitely increased.