Inspiration Archives: Josh and Harrison Herz

We are only 10 and 12 years old, so we still have a lot to learn. But we have co-written a book. Not only did we help our dad write it, but we help tell people about our book. We have done book readings at elementary schools, the YMCA, libraries, and the San Diego Children's Museum. We have done book signing events at Barnes &; Noble, Warwick's Books, Mysterious Galaxy Books, Readers Books, farmer's markets, and book fairs. We have been written about in a bunch of print and web articles. We have had web radio and video interviews. We have met well-known authors, artists, actors, and movie production people.

Those have been a lot of fun and great experiences for us. We have learned some important lessons that we would like to share:

Be Confident - Don't let what other people think stop you from going after your goals and doing what is right. Just because we are young boys doesn't mean we can't write a book or run a small business. The only limits are the ones in our heads. When people are negative or critical, that says more about them than it does about us. Chase your dreams.

Be Positive - It's always a good idea to be nice to people. We found that when we are selling our book, we do much better when we are friendly and talk with people who stop by our booth. They respond better when we are upbeat and enthusiastic. It never hurts to smile.

Be Disciplined - We have learned from selling our book and running our web-based businesses that we don't reach our goals right away. We have to work hard and long to reach them. Sometimes you have to do some boring things before you get to do exciting things. Sometimes an event can start off slowly, but we keep at it, and we always manage to finish strong. We have learned that you appreciate the things you earn much more than things you are given.

Be Organized - It is important to be prepared. When we go to a book signing, we have to plan. When do we leave home so we get to the event on time? Did we remember to bring our books, posters, and business cards? Did we pack snacks? After the event, we put half the profits in our savings accounts (which we don't touch), and the other half in checking (which we can buy stuff with).

Be Brave - The only way you discover new things that you like, is to try them. And we are not just talking about writing a book. Eat a new food. Visit a new country. Read a new book. Tell people about what you are doing and what you want, like asking to post a flyer in a store. Ask for help when you need it. Be willing to try new things.