What does it take to be successful?
What does it take to be successful?
I've been thinking a lot this week about what it takes to be successful. I think we all have goals for our business that we want to see come to fruition. Dreams we are chasing with the desire to catch and turn into reality.
But, what does it take to really create success? I've watch a ton of YouTube videos (my guilty pleasure while I get ready in the mornings), and I've read a lot of blog posts from 7 figure entrepreneurs. I feel that they all boil down to 2 things. (I'll admit that I'm oversimplifiying a whole business strategy to a trite two things but just hang with me.)
The first thing is being so insanely clear on what it is you provide for people. I think this can translate to authors in the sense of "what is your genre?", "what tropes are in your book?", and "what level of intensity is it (sweet or steamy romance, cozy or hard-boil mystery, etc.)?".
Be clear about your comps. "For readers of..." is a great way to help them know what your books is going to be like. Also comparing to tv shows and movies can be an easy way to translate the vibe of your book. Clarity is everything.
The second thing is to stay on the path and don't get distracted. I struggle with this, and if you are a creative, I'm guessing you do too. Ideas are bursting into your brain everywhere you look! Shiny objects abound! But, those who are successful become singular in their objective. Start with one thing and do it really freaking well!
I can't tell you what your objective is, that's for you to determine. But, you NEED to determine what this is. Maybe it's selling a certain amount of books. Maybe it consistently release a book every 6 months. You get to decide what that is. Focus on your one thing.
If you can really dig in and be clear on those two things, success is going to be a much easier path for you.
So ask yourself...
What is that I provide?
and
What is the one things I'm trying to accomplish this year?
I believe in you. Believe in yourself.
Happy reading and writing,
Melissa
Want to hear about these topics even more in-depth?
Check out this podcast where I talked with Erika about Marketing and Mindset.
Takeaways
Building a community of readers is crucial for authors to stand out in a crowded market.
Authors should start building their author platform and brand early, even before their book is ready to be published.
Newsletters are a powerful tool for authors to connect with readers and promote their books.
Authors should focus on providing value to their readers and building relationships rather than just selling their books.
Having a strong author brand helps readers connect with the author and creates a sense of trust and familiarity.