So you've decided to write a book, or already finished one. First of all, congratulations! It's no small task to write a book! But if you are someone who has been told that writing is a fast track to fame and fortune, I have some bad news. It's not.
There are a few reasons why this is the case. I am not saying that there isn't a chance for you and your work to make the New York Times Best Seller List and make a decent income. I'm just saying don't be in a rush for overnight results.
Rushing can lead to burnout, disappointment, and self-doubt. None of which are helpful to you or your writing. Here is a shortlist of a few reasons that writing success (like all great things) takes time to achieve.
1. Responsive ARC's Can Be Hard to Find.
Even after searching the depths of the internet and hounding all of my family and friends, one thing has become crystal clear. Not every one that says they will review your book for you actually will.
The fact of the matter is that ARC and Beta readers are people just like us. They get busy and don't have the kind of time they thought they would to do an honest review.
2. Finding Your Target Audience
This part has been a learn as I go process for me. I wrote my first series in the YA genre, but it hasn't done so hot in that arena. Come to find out that most people who are actually devouring the series are aged eight to twelve.
Don't get downhearted when you don't sell a hundred plus copies right off the bat. Take all the feedback you get and take notes on it. Then you can rework your marketing to reach the readers who are dying to read anything you write! (You may have to do this step several times, but don't give up!)
3. Things We Can't Control
Then comes the factor that no one anywhere likes. There are some things that we as authors just can't control. Things like fluctuations in the marketplace, the vast amount of competition, and the current crisis of COVID-19 have all played a roll in how well books, in general, are selling.
To sum it up, there is no fast track to success as an author. Whether you are traditionally or Self-published, it still takes time to narrow down the specifics and get your foot in the door. Patience, passion, persistence, and a large dose of faith in yourself and your work will pay off in the long run.
Keep writing! Remember that moving on to the next story rattling around in your brain isn't the same thing as giving up on your already published projects. Set up your marketing, have a cup of coffee, and relax. There is no such thing as being a failure as an author.
The fact that you put in the hard work to write, edit, and publish a book in the first place means that you are already a huge success! I am proud of you and you should be too! Happy Writing!
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