wRiter's woRld--invest in youRself

wRiting & editing in Belize '10

A ship in the haRbor is safe ~ but that's not what ships are for.

John A. Shedd, Salt from My Attic

These words came to me while sitting in church this morning: If no one will invest in you, invest in yourself. Got songs? Can't find a producer? Then create your own CD. Have a story? Can't find a traditional publishing house to publish your book? Then self-publish. Invest.

When I began writing my book in 2004 (yes, I've had a few detours along the way), my husband bought me a little Acer laptop and opened a book account for me. Every Christmas, birthday, or some other special occasion, he deposits a small sum into my BA (book account). He told me, "I beLeaf in you, so I'm investing in you--and your book." Note: Rob's my biggest fan.

So now, years later, as the economy has tightened the world of traditional publishing, I have my little nest egg (BA) to fall back on. It's just enough for me to look into the field of self-publishing via e-books, print-on-demand, etc.

Suggestion: If you plan to make a career of writing--or any other passion you have--put aside a small amount here and there and watch your nest egg grow over the months (for me, over the years!). Invest. And beLeaf.

Note: God invested in us: He gave His son, Jesus, that we may have eternal life and a more abundant life while here on earth. He even wrote a book about it, and its a true story!

Another side note: You don't have to have millions to be abundantly blessed. There are people who would give their millions for peace of mind (don't need to mention names, but I'm sure you can think of a few who make our daily headlines).

As we continue on our journey, let's not forget to invest in others...with a smile, a word of encouragement, a prayer. Investing is good for the soul.

We'll talk more about this later. By the way, I loved your comments from last week's blog--your words are inspirational for all of us soon-to-be authors.

Oceans of blessings, and I'll see you on the Radio!

Love and truth belong to God's people; goodness and peace will be theirs.

Psalm 85:10 NCV

wRiter's woRld

At every crossroad, follow your dream.

It is courageous to let your heart lead the way.

I've had a busy week. Last Saturday I hosted a "Book Launch Party" in my home for a friend who flew in from California. I love being a part of my fellow writer's journey. And believe me, everyone has a different journey.

Note: A book launch party is a great marketing tool; I'll give more details if you're interested.

Although this particular blog is for upcoming authors, you can apply it to all walks of life. I have followers who are artists, chefs, caterers, nurses, life coaches, radio producers...the list goes on.

Disclaimer: I have no professional experience; I'm just speaking from my heart and from years of research and observations.

I have a wonderful, exciting book that is ready for publishing. I have done hours of research and wringing sweaty hands (when I'm reading the latest articles on the economy's slam on the publishing world), and of course, praying. The traditional publishing world has drastically changed over the years, but not as much as it has lately. Borders, a major bookstore, is closing 200 of its 600 stores, causing publishers and authors to lose millions of dollars. This is making it even harder for traditional publishers to consider first-time unknowns unless you have the money to hire a good agent to represent you, which will help you get your foot in the door.

Then there is the new and wondrous world of e-books. Okay, I can hear all of you out there who are avid readers giving out a big huff, stating that you will always be faithful to turning real pages of the written word of your favorite books. I'm one of you (touchy-feely). But I have talked to many faithful real-page turners who received an e-book (Kindle, iPad, etc) as a gift, and guess what? They LOVE them! Yes, I know its hard to teach old dogs new tricks--arf, arf! But as time goes by, lets keep an open mind to this new area of publishing.

Another area of publishing that used to be poo-pooed by aspiring authors is self-publishing (co-publishing, print-on-demand, etc). I was one of them. But after much research, I must say: If we believe in our writing, then we should consider investing in our books. Why? Because we are worth it! And don't we want our books to get in the hands of readers who will be blessed and encouraged by our words? I can't speak for you, but that is why I wrote Lady and the Sea.

Note to aspiring authors: Don't compare your journey. Stay on the path that has been chosen just for you. Trusting God and following Him will give you peace that passes all human understanding.

Whatever we decide to do as the next generation of authors, let's move forward in joy and peace. As we continue to seek God, He will direct our paths. In this day and age, self-publishing is not the worst thing that can happen to you. And who knows? It might just be the BEST thing that can happen!

I'll have more to say next time, but I would love your input thus far. Together we can find a way to make our books happen!

Oceans of blessings, and I'll see you on the radio!

The signposts of God are clear and point out the right road.

The life-maps of God are right, showing the way to joy.

Psalm 19:7-8 The Message