Being a author takes more than writing a book, oh so much more. I thought I would share some of the things I am doing now while I write the draft of my novella to help me be a better author.
Layer 1: Write
Write the book) I know this seems like a given but it is the most important step. I treat my writing like a job I get my butt in the chair Monday thru Friday and write something on the current project. If I am having a hard day and the words are not flowing I make sure to do other things to benefit the work. I block out the scenes in the chapter. For example I make not of the stalkers thoughts and actions that impact my main characters. I make a vision board of locations, settings, outfits, and character ideas on Pinterest. I research personality types of my characters. To insure that I am getting the character right come upcoming scenes in the book.
Write the blog) If you are reading this you might already know that I publish a blog every week. Write with others) I can not say this enough join writers groups. Go to poetry night at a local club, write with others as often as you can. I have a writers group called 5 minute writing. I am also a member of several other groups and it makes me a stronger writer and the information shared is amazing.
Layer 2: My brand
Website and Blog) When you write and want to publish you have to understand that you are your product. Like any business owner you have to market yourself to your chosen demographic. Since I write romance novels I had to change my web page to reflect that. I am also a freelance writer and have to market my skills and get out there and sell my services. This takes market research and a lot of reading.
Social media outlets) We live with social media and I have to join the bandwagon too. I have an authors FaceBook page, Instagram, Twitter, Tumbler, SnapChat, Pinterest page, Linkdin and Google +. I also have a social media plan with different posts and times to post everyday of the week.
Share your progress) The best thing in the world is the support from my family and friends. They keep me going when the days are hard and I feared that I would have a book sitting in limbo.
Layer 3: Networking
Share the love) Take the time to follow other writers especially the ones that write the same things you do. Share their book releases and rewards, believe me it is worth it for no other reason than to know that you are not alone.
Social media plan) Do some research and post often. Understand what each different social media outlet is for and how it works. This will pay off as you watch followers role in and know that at least some of them will buy your book.
Layer 4: Myself
Goals) Have goals, make smart goals. I am not saying do not have a huge dream but also have a more earthly expectation. My goals are:
-Finish the first draft
-Celebrate the finishing of the book-Send the draft to my editors
-Start the squeal while they edit
-After a month of finishing the first book work on the new draft
-Self publish the book
-Hope that at least one person buys my book
Rewards) I admit this part is the hardest for me. I have a hard time rewarding myself or even coming up with rewards for myself. It is important to do it.
Journal) I have many journals. Recording my progress and pit falls in them, ideas for stories or characters.
Accountability) make a word count goal and keep track of it. If you look at my last blog I show you how I use Google sheets to keep track of my word count. I also make a weekly word count goal.
Tips and Tricks) I use a timer set to 10 minutes when I start writing, music, and notes to keep me writing everyday.
Support) I have the best support and without them I would be toast. They keep me going, cheer me on and they are sometimes even more excited than I am about what I am doing.
If you have any suggestions or questions please feel free to comment. I love to hear from my readers.
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