Writer’s Roundup: August 31

Happy Friday!

I’m heading last-minute to a writer’s colony for 10 days… but more on that next week!

For now, your weekend reads:

• We’re always hearing about the benefits of all things “local” — does the same idea apply to startups? Chris Cope encourages you to forget Silicone Valley, and build your startup where you live.

• Be proactive, not reactive, and other tips from Carrie Smith about how to conquer financial obstacles and anything else life throws at you.

• How could anyone think this is OK? The New York Times has a story about authors paying for positive online book reviews.

• If you want to earn miles and points towards travel, Chris Guillebeau offers recommendations for the best miles-earning credit cards.

• Well said, Penelope Trunk: networking means making real friends.

• Learn these, and learn them well. The five most essential skills for starting your first business online, from Sean Ogle.

• Love this idea from Amber Rae — be unapologetically you, even in love.

• Are you ready to start outsourcing some of your work? Maneesh Sethi shares some tips for smart outsourcing over at Location 180.

• Awesome piece about what to expect if you start freelancing, and how to prepare yourself, from Alan Henry at Lifehacker.

• That instead of who, over rather than more than: don’t make these grammar gaffes! At Copyblogger, I share 10 grammar mistakes that can keep your content from spreading.

Happy weekend!