Why Every Creative Should Read ‘Business for Bohemians’: The Ultimate Guide to Living Well and Making Money

The Ultimate Guide to Living Well and Making Money

If you’re a writer, artist, designer, or dreamer, you’ve probably wondered: can I really make a living doing what I love? ‘Business for Bohemians’ answers with a resounding yes—and shows you how. Hodgkinson’s approach is a breath of fresh air in a world obsessed with scale and speed. He invites readers to slow down, savor the journey, and build businesses that reflect their deepest values.

The book’s first lesson is about redefining what success means. Rather than chasing endless growth, Hodgkinson encourages you to focus on fulfillment, freedom, and the joy of daily work. The stories he shares—from small café owners to independent publishers—prove that you don’t have to be a mogul to be happy.

Money, often a stumbling block for creatives, is tackled with honesty and humor. Hodgkinson reframes profit as the foundation of independence, not a sign of greed. He explores practical models like subscriptions and membership clubs, showing how these can create steady income and loyal communities. Crowdfunding is discussed with both optimism and realism: it’s powerful, but requires hard work and relentless communication.

Business planning is made accessible and even fun. Hodgkinson’s advice: keep it short, focused, and story-driven. The best plans, he argues, are those that help you clarify your mission and connect emotionally with your audience. Investors and partners are drawn to passion and vision as much as to numbers.

Finance and spreadsheets are demystified. Hodgkinson likens accounting to gardening: a regular, peaceful activity that brings order to chaos. He urges creatives to learn the basics before delegating, so they can stay in control and avoid costly mistakes.

Pricing and selling are reframed as acts of integrity and joy. High prices, he reveals, can signal quality and attract the right customers. Free events often lead to low engagement, while charging—even a little—creates commitment. Selling is about sharing stories and inviting people into your world, not pushing products.

The final lesson is about resilience and rest. Hodgkinson introduces the idea of the ‘fun audit’—a regular check-in to ensure your business still brings you joy. He celebrates the power of idleness and the wisdom to quit when necessary. The result is a vision of business as a source of meaning, laughter, and self-healing.

‘Business for Bohemians’ is essential reading for anyone who wants to make a living without losing their soul. Its blend of philosophy, humor, and practical advice will inspire you to design a career—and a life—you truly love.