Author Savvy: Dumb is Always Comes Before Smart

To Become a MASTER … Authors Begin the Journey as a DUMMY

Throughout the year, my favorite Geek Girl, Kelly Johnson and I create a mini intensive on a specific topic … the goal is always to talk our small enclave of dummies to ace users over a three hour period of time. In the three years, we have delivered Tech Tool Boxes for the AuthorU community, the transition never fails.

Being DUMB and IGNORANT is the starting point to becoming highly proficient and SMART. At each session, are timid, curious, frustrated and dumb participants display some level of resistance. They know there’s “something” in that pile that could just be the perfect gizmo or gadget to add to their Tech Tool Box … yet … the almost fearfulness of “brain damage/drain” or just more time sucking is in the eyes.

Kelly and my objective is to always reveal tricks and tips to the “tool” we are covering; reveal just why it could be the cat’s meow to support their authoring and publishing endeavors; and of course, have fun in the process.

But—the sometimes “OMG, what am I doing here” look in the eyes is revealed … sometimes, it is verbalized.

DUMB is always the Staring Point of Being SMART

I confess up front … do I routinely use every tool consistently that we focus on during the session? No … but the ones that I learn about from Kelly that I hadn’t already been familiar with (I too can be in the official dummy crowd) opens a new window of opportunity. I have become a MASTER is a variety of areas of publishing. Each journey began with ignorance—at times, I felt I was a dummy of all things.

My 30+ year journey through the publishing maze has delivered an array of experiences, ahas and yes, crashes. I now can quickly evaluate whether it makes sense to keep using and mastering … or to just put it in my “good to know” file the truckload of tools that I come across.

• Is the opportunity right for me?
• Does it fit and support the work that I do?
• Does it add to my social media marketing?
• Is it something that my full time VA can use to enhance my social media that she puts out daily?
• Does it open up an avenue that I haven’t thought about?

Because I allowed myself to be DUMB, I enable myself to begin the journey to being a MASTER. How cool is that?

As an author, no matter where you are on the path: just starting—almost there to completion of your manuscript or with book in hand—frustration is most likely a familiar road sign you’ve encountered.

Drive through it. Those 15, 30, even 60 minutes of being overwhelmed, frustrated and let’s face it: feeling/saying, “Screw it,” and wanting to throw in the towel may be the seed to a giant WOOT! I’ve been there, done that.

Complacency will never move you to mastery in anything. Curiosity and Persistence will. Embrace your dumbness and celebrate the coming smartness. 

Judith Briles is a book publishing expert and coach. She empowers authors and is the Founder of Author U, a membership organization created for the serious author who wants to be seriously successful. She’s been writing about and conducting workshops on publishing since the 80s. Judith is the author of 34 books including Author YOU: Creating and Building Your Author and Book Platforms (ForeWord IndieFab Book of the Year), Snappy Sassy Salty: Wise Words for Authors and Writers and a speaker at publishing conferences. Book #34 was published this summer: The CrowdFunding Guide for Authors & Writers. Get your copy.

Become part of her inner circle by joining the Author’s Ark and exclusive monthly webinar and coaching event. Each summer, she holds Judith Briles Book Publishing Unplugged, a three day intensive limited to a small group of authors who want to be seriously successful. In 2015, the dates are August 27-29th.  Her audio and workbook series, Creating Your Book and Author Platform is now available. Join Judith live on Thursdays at 6 p.m. EST for Author U – Your Guide to Book Publishing on the Toginet Network at bit.ly/PublishingShow .

Follow @AuthorU and @MyBookShepherd on Twitter and do a “Like” at AuthorU and Judith Briles – TheBookShepherd on Facebook. If you want to create a book that has no regrets, contact Judith at Judith@Briles.com.

Author U is a non-profit membership organization dedicated to the author who wants to be seriously successful. Monthly education programs delivered face-to-face and online, The Author Resource ezine, BookCamps and the annual Author U Extravaganza are tools designed for authors pre, during and post publishing of their books. Join AuthorU.org today.

 If you are looking for FREE author and book coaching ... call in to Judith's Author Monday Mornings at NOON Eastern each Monday. The number is 218-632-9854; Access Code 1239874444 ... have your questions ready--there's a full hour to ask and listen.

Author and Book Success: In Sight … In Mind

Typically, most view January as the month of Resolutions. I suggest you don’t. Why—simply this: most Resolutions are trashed within a few weeks of making them. It’s estimated that over 75 percent of resolutions are quickly side-stepped.

 

What are the top reasons resolutions become out of sight … out of mind?

1 Creating an All or Nothing Scenario

Almost guaranteed to set any author up for failure, we authors sometimes think of success in a black and white format. Usually it is kicked-off with the word “instant” … as in I need to sell 500 books in the next two weeks; I need to get on a national TV show this month; I need to ________. The publishing journey is a marathon, not the mythical short sprint that most just published authors think.

2 Lapsing and Relapsing

ODing either way … happens if there is a relapse … then you promise yourself (or others) that you will get back on track … and you do until you run into another hiccup. Then it moves into an all or none strategy that rarely goes flawless in execution or succeeding. Hiccups happen, get that it’s part of the journey. They hurt, but are rarely fatal.

3 Rewards Work

Every author has something different that motivates him or her. What’s yours? Do it; enjoy it; celebrate whatever your “it” is. Growth and success comes in a variety of steps and stages. One of my favorite books is Mastery by George Leonard. Required reading when I worked on my MBA years ago, its aha was the value of setbacks and plateaus … events that would enable/encourage one to regroup, relearn, practice and then woot … a huge leap in progress becomes highly probable.

4 Re-instill Vision

When you started on the Author Journey, you had a vision for either you or your book, preferably both. It’s time to revisit it. Clarify and goose your motivation.

5 Accountability and Action

Your Author and Book GamePlan for success require all of the above plus it needs action that has accountability tied to it.
Many jump on the authoring journey without putting one together. If that’s you, it’s never too late—you just may not like some of the revealing “hiccups” that your lack of a GamePlan didn't include. If you had one, you could be under the influence of Author Fatigue Syndrome—you are pooped.

Let’s try something different. It’s time to revisit it and reward yourself for the milestones you can mark off as DONE. Instead of vowing that you won’t do this or that you will do that … create a new GamePlan for 2015. If you have book in hand, it’s all about marketing and positioning. If your book is being written or in production, it’s ditto along with making sure that “your team” is creating the book that is your vision and one that you have no regrets about.

Lots going on in January. The PublishingAtSea.com sets to sea on the 18th … a great was to concentrate on lots of publishing info PLUS have a vacation on the side PLUS have it tax deductible. How cool is that?

The Author’s Ark will be starting up in February—THREE intense months of coaching with me. Get signed up NOW. http://bit.ly/1fWGR9Y
The Draft to Dream Book Publishing Competition ends on the 15th … if you have a manuscript that hasn’t been published, this is a HUGE window of opportunity. All details are on the www.AuthorU.org website. DO IT>  http://ow.ly/Co6DM

Early bird registration for the AuthorU.org Extravaganza is just around the corner. All the main publishing players will be there… the question is… well YOU. Rates will increase $100 on February 1st.
2015 is the year for in sight, in mind for you and your book’s success. I’m committed to it … are you?

 

Judith Briles is known as The Book Shepherd a book publishing expert and coach. She is the Founder of Author U, a membership organization created for the serious author who wants to be seriously successful. She’s been writing about and conducting workshops on publishing since the 80s. Judith is the author of 31 books including Author YOU: Creating and Building Your Author and Book Platforms (ForeWord Indie/Fab Book of the Year), Snappy Sassy Salty: Wise Words for Authors and Writers and a speaker at publishing conferences.

Become part of her inner circle by joining the Author’s Ark and exclusive monthly webinar and coaching event. Each summer, she holds Judith Briles Unplugged, a two and 1/2 day intensive limited to a small group of authors who want to be seriously successful. In 2015, the dates are August 27-29th.  Her audio and workbook series, Creating Your Book and Author Platform is now available. Join Judith live on Thursdays at 6 p.m. EST for Author U – Your Guide to Book Publishing on the Toginet Network at http://tinyurl.com/AuthorURadio . Follow @AuthorU and @MyBookShepherd on Twitter and do a “Like” at AuthorU and Judith Briles – TheBookShepherd on Facebook. If you want to create a book that has no regrets, contact Judith at Judith@Briles.com.

GOYT Success Formula for Book Publicity and Marketing Saturday

Yowsa … AuthorU.org and The Book Shepherd have an extraordinary BookCamp popping next weekend, Saturday the 15th … it’s our end of the year gift to you.

How to Create Killer Book Publicity that Sells Books Far Beyond Your Launch on a Shoestring Budget

SO … here’s the BIG question … Would you like to create killer, knock the socks off, book publicity that reaches far beyond any launch you envisioned … even on a teeny tiny shoe string budget? And your answer is:

1.  No way, Jose … I don’t give a twiddly-dit  about publicity and saving a pot full of money and having my book, and me, a success. (Really, that’s your answer?)

2. You Betcha … are you kidding? I’m cancelling whatever I have on my calendar and coming on Saturday, the 15th. 

 Register NOW: http://authoru.org/events.html

3. Maybe … Maybe Not … you need to convince me … tell me more.

OK … if it’s ” No way, Jose” – STOP reading.

If you need a little more info, here it is.  Your HUGE take-aways include:

• How to take the target market for your book and find them online, offline, etc. Includes contacting them (journalists, bloggers, consumers) on social media sites, pitching, follow-up.

• How to create your own media outlets and tips for building a raving fan base. Includes YouTube, podcasts, an ezine, etc.

• Email marketing. So IMPORTANT and something most authors miss! Tips for capturing the email address and what to do with it once you have it. What kinds of emails to send, even if you write fiction. Includes things like killer subject lines that get them to open the message, tricks for writing and presentation, etc.

• How to prepare a publicity campaign for your book, what to do pre-launch, during launch and afterward.

• The most important question to ask about your target market when planning a publicity campaign (it has nothing to do with you or what you’re selling).

• How to become an expert in your topic and use it to open doors that are closed to non-experts.

• How to make your website “media ready” so journalists, broadcasters and bloggers find exactly what they need without calling you.

• The all-important “extras” to offer to the media to convince them to cover you.

• Sneaky ways to increase the odds of getting your website address in news stories (these work!).

• The basics of  your author media kit and why you need multiple author bios, not just one.

• How to avoid being a pain-in-the-ass who journalists end up blackballing.

• Cool tools (most of them free) to use in your book publicity campaign. (We love freebies!)

Hot seats in the afternoon … Joan will pre-select up to 6 attendees who will be in the Publicity Hound’s eyes … will you be a lucky one and howl with and for your book?

Now that I've give you the “take-aways”, let’s refocus on Who should attend?  Good question … let’s start with:

• Authors who haven’t started writing yet.
• Authors who haven’t published yet.
• Authors who are bored with their own books.
• Authors who have a book that is getting long in the tooth.
• Authors who are just published.
• Authors … that means YOU!

In other words, if you want to be seriously successful … you show up, you participate. It’s the GOYT Success Formula for Book Publicity and Book Marketing … Get Off Your Tush … see you this Saturday.

Joan Stewart is the Publicity Hound. With an in-depth background as a journalist, publicity coach and master of creating the best of the best in Cheat Sheets for propelling authors to the forefront of media attention, get ready for an action packed and fun day. Her website is PublicityHound.com.

Register NOW: http://authoru.org/events.html

When:   Saturday, November 15th Lunch and workbook included : 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Where: Doubletree SE, 225/Iliff in Aurora, CO

Cost:     $129               

 

The GOYT Success Formula for Book Publicity and Book Marketing

Yowsa … AuthorU.org has an extraordinary BookCamp popping next weekend, Saturday the 15th … it’s our end of the year gift to you.

How to Create Killer Book Publicity that sells Books Far Beyond Your Launch Shoestring Budget

SO … here’s the BIG question … Would you like to create killer, knock the socks off, book publicity that reaches far beyond any launch you envisioned … even on a teeny tiny shoe string budget? And your answer is:

1.  No way, Jose … I don’t give a twiddly-dit  about publicity and saving a pot full of money and having my book, and me, a success.

2. You Betcha … are you kidding? I’m cancelling whatever I have on my calendar and coming on Saturday, the 15th.  Register NOW: http://authoru.org/events.html

3. Maybe … Maybe Not … you need to convince me … tell me more.

OK … if it’s ” No way, Jose” – stop reading. If you need a little more info, here it is.  Your HUGE take-aways include:

• How to take the target market for your book and find them online, offline, etc. Includes contacting them (journalists, bloggers, consumers) on social media sites, pitching, follow-up.

• How to create your own media outlets and tips for building a raving fan base. Includes YouTube, podcasts, an ezine, etc.

• Email marketing. So IMPORTANT and something most authors miss! Tips for capturing the email address and what to do with it once you have it. What kinds of emails to send, even if you write fiction. Includes things like killer subject lines that get them to open the message, tricks for writing and presentation, etc.

• How to prepare a publicity campaign for your book, what to do pre-launch, during launch and afterward.

• The most important question to ask about your target market when planning a publicity campaign (it has nothing to do with you or what you’re selling).

• How to become an expert in your topic and use it to open doors that are closed to non-experts.

• How to make your website “media ready” so journalists, broadcasters and bloggers find exactly what they need without calling you.

• The all-important “extras” to offer to the media to convince them to cover you.

• Sneaky ways to increase the odds of getting your website address in news stories (these work!).

• The basics of  your author media kit and why you need multiple author bios, not just one.

• How to avoid being a pain-in-the-ass who journalists end up blackballing.

• Cool tools (most of them free) to use in your book publicity campaign. (We love freebies!)

Hot seats in the afternoon … Joan will pre-select up to 6 attendees who will be in the Publicity Hound’s eyes … will you be a lucky one and howl with and for your book?

Now that I've give you the “take-aways”, let’s refocus on Who should attend?  Good question … let’s start with:

• Authors who haven’t started writing yet.
• Authors who haven’t published yet.
• Authors who are bored with their own books.
• Authors who have a book that is getting long in the tooth.
• Authors who are just published.
• Authors … that means YOU!

In other words, if you want to be seriously successful … you show up, you participate. It’s the GOYT Success Formula for Book Publicity and Book Marketing … Get Off Your Tush … see you Saturday.



Joan Stewart is the Publicity Hound. With an in-depth background as a journalist, publicity coach and master of creating the best of the best in Cheat Sheets for propelling authors to the forefront of media attention, get ready for an action packed and fun day. Her website is PublicityHound.com.

Register NOW: http://authoru.org/events.html
When: Saturday, November 15th Lunch and workbook included : 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 
Where: Doubletree SE, 225/Iliff in Aurora, CO
Cost: $129 for AuthorU.org members
Non-Members      $169

Author Alert: If You Snooze ... You Lose

Are you a snoozer?

Are you looking for the perfect phrase, word, idea? Are you stuck? Wouldn't getting unstuck and moving forward be a fantastic goal.  Today is Take a Snooze Day? Is that a good idea? Have you been snoozing where it comes to your book. Maybe this is the day, the week, the month, the year when your book is no longer in your dreams or chatter ... it becomes a reality.

 

                        

Make a decision to go forward or eliminate vs. the one that you have practiced—to do nothing.

Moving from wannabe author to the real thing is totally possible this coming year. Moving from wannabe speaker to the real thing is totally possible this coming year. Moving from wannabe anything to the real thing is totally possible this coming year.

Is there a book in you? Most think there is. And most don’t get them out. You could have the makings of a fantastic novel, a creative young adult series, and exquisitely illustrated young children’s stories. Cookbooks, health, space, romance, intrigue, how-to or business book may be lurking in your creative closet.

You just may be able to take your career to a whole new level with the creation of a book. Adding to your professional credentials, if done right, could position you as the expert in a specific field. A book could talk you to a whole new level, a different type of professional business card. Amazing doors can open with book in hand.

Many wannabe authors, speakers, or whatever, practice the art of one for the money, two for the show, three to get ready, three to get ready, three to get ready … and they never go. They keep reaching for one more thing; one more piece of information; another interview; another who knows what. Sometimes, it’s just another excuse. Their book never gets written, much less published. Their quest for the perfect book has become the enemy of creating a good book, even a great book.

Perfection and Procrastination go hand-in-hand. Break the bond and move forward today.

Step 1:  Choose a spot … any spot that is yours and yours alone. It’s the “Do Not Cross … Author at Work” sport. Authors need their space and time. Space will contain all the ingredients you need to support you. Think computer, phone— if necessary, pens, pencils, paper, files with reference items that you've collected, notes you've saved or made to support your topic, other reference books, a favorite snack (I confess—I've written an entire book with M&Ms and Cheetos being the reward each time I finished a chapter), beverage of choice, toys, etc. Your space. Claim it and let others know that when you are in your space, it’s a “Do Not Disturb … Author at Work” sanctuary.

Find time. Some authors have to work specific hours; others are more loosey-goosey. Do what works for you, but do it.

Step 2:  Just do it … even if what you get down looks like gibberish. Is it a cliché? Nope, it’s a start. You can’t move forward to publication until you’ve got some words. So dump them out. Think of it as a giant puzzle. Sometimes just finding all the edges takes time.  As in a puzzle, colors begin to gather, segments within it come together, and it does come together if you persevere.  The more you organize your thoughts, stories, stats and general info, the better it is when it comes to the first dump. The general topic, sub-topics, stories/facts/stats to support the topic all go into magic piles.

Where you choose to “dump” is your choice. Some still write all by hand … if you having been procrastinating or dragging your feet—it’s best to bypass this method and either pick up the latest version of Dragon’s Naturally Speaking where you can literally put on a headset with a mic and start talking or glue yourself to a favorite spot and just start writing—writing anything to kick start your creative juices.

With Dragon’s program, your works get transcribed to your computer, and then you clean up spellings and missed words after your dictation is done.  Here’s what you don’t do with a speaking program: watch it as it unfolds on your computer. Guaranteed, it’s the kiss of author death.  You will want to stop. In fact, you will stop. Your creative juices vaporize as you start to correct spelling and do a first run at editing.  DO NOT DO THIS.  You need everything flowing when you are in your zone—you don’t need to make the written word perfect … yet.

Step 3:  Get help. You may need book coaching to goose you. You may need to get the big picture in place where you can see the book, even virtually feel what it will look like. Do you know your title … or do you need some help in creating it—don’t be surprised, titles can change as a book progresses … and it can be as firm as a slab of cement. If it’s firm, a mock up of a cover might be the visual encouragement that keeps you going. You will need an editor—content or grammar? All authors need editors who edit (this is not your friend or sister, although they can be readers) … all authors no exceptions.  

Plan on engaging other professionals who create books—interiors and exteriors. Will illustrations or cartoons enhance your work? Unless you are a pro in book design, book covers, illustrations, etc., don’t go down that path. Don't expect to do it cheaply—what does that say about you and the quality of your work?

Step 4:  Make up your mind. It's a new year ... changes are everywhere. What’s it going to be—your first book? A new book? A workbook or Teacher’s Guide to accompany one that you have already written? How about a stellar speech and/or workshop that will take you new places and create new places to see your book? Or an audio program? Do you see a video version of your book or creating Exercises and Projects for readers to use and enjoy? The paths you choose can be multiple, which makes it exciting for the Author.

Your book can do amazing things ... you need to bring the amazing you to the party and invite the pros in for the journey.

 

 

 

Judith Briles is known as The Book Shepherd a book publishing expert and coach. She is the Founder of Author U, a membership organization created for the serious author who wants to be seriously successful. She’s been writing about and conducting workshops on publishing since the 80s. Judith is the author of 31 books including Author YOU: Creating and Building Your Author and Book Platforms (ForeWord Indie/Fab Book of the Year), Snappy Sassy Salty: Wise Words for Authors and Writers and a speaker at publishing conferences.

Become part of her inner circle by joining the Author’s Ark and exclusive monthly webinar and coaching event. Each summer, she holds Judith Briles Unplugged, a two and 1/2 day intensive limited to a small group of authors who want to be seriously successful. In 2015, the dates are August 27-29th.  Her audio and workbook series, Creating Your Book and Author Platform is now available. Join Judith live on Thursdays at 6 p.m. EST for Author U – Your Guide to Book Publishing on the Toginet Network at http://tinyurl.com/AuthorURadio . Follow @AuthorU and @MyBookShepherd on Twitter and do a “Like” at AuthorU and Judith Briles – TheBookShepherd on Facebook. If you want to create a book that has no regrets, contact Judith at Judith@Briles.com.

The Book Shepherds on Publishing: which is for you?

Recently, I responded to a query from an author who wanted to transition from self-publishing to traditional publishing. She had successfully sold 60,000 books on her own. The first words out of my mouth were, “Why would you want to do that?”

And then …

I'm afraid you are in for a rude awakening if you go the traditional route. Yes, you can get the attention of an agent and publisher with 60,000 book sales—especially since the traditional publishing averages LESS than 5,000. What’s motivating you—maybe ego? Do you think there will be less work on your side involved with creating sales? Maybe you think a publisher will promote like hell? Think again. Most publishing via NY is about printing your book—it is expected it will already have the first pass of editing; that anything that you might get in advances will go directly toward you using for re-marketing efforts, a la publicity, etc.

I just did the number crunching of a book I created in 1987. After 28 rejections, a small NY publisher picked it up—how much money went under the table to them was significant—my agent (a biggie in the biz) referred to them as a "crook publisher"—not until I woke up, took control, created new work in the same venue and published and promoted myself, did the numbers start showing. To date, with speaking, consulting, book sales from multiple generations—about $4 million has been generated.

Why would you want to lose control? Why would you want to most likely create an inferior product to one you could do own your own—do you know that publishers are actually reducing the amount of glue used in binding?

 

 

 

 

 Judith Briles is known as The Book Shepherd a book publishing expert and coach. She is the Founder of Author U, a membership organization created for the serious author who wants to be seriously successful. She’s been writing about and conducting workshops on publishing since the 80s. Judith is the author of 31 books including Author YOU: Creating and Building Your Author and Book Platforms (ForeWord Indie/Fab Book of the Year), Snappy Sassy Salty: Wise Words for Authors and Writers and a speaker at publishing conferences.

Become part of her inner circle by joining the Author’s Ark and exclusive monthly webinar and coaching event. Each summer, she holds Judith Briles Unplugged, a two and 1/2 day intensive limited to a small group of authors who want to be seriously successful. In 2015, the dates are August 27-29th.  Her audio and workbook series, Creating Your Book and Author Platform is now available. Join Judith live on Thursdays at 6 p.m. EST for Author U – Your Guide to Book Publishing on the Toginet Network at http://togi.us/authoru. Follow @AuthorU and @MyBookShepherd on Twitter and do a “Like” at AuthorU and Judith Briles – TheBookShepherd on Facebook. If you want to create a book that has no regrets, contact Judith at Judith@Briles.com.

Authors: Make Up Your Mind

Are you a procrastinator? Are you looking for the perfect phrase, word, idea? Are you stuck? Wouldn't getting unstuck and moving forward be a fantastic goal. 

                       

Make a decision to go forward or eliminate vs. the one that you have practiced—to do nothing.

Moving from wannabe author to the real thing is totally possible this coming year. Moving from wannabe speaker to the real thing is totally possible this coming year. Moving from wannabe anything to the real thing is totally possible this coming year. 

Is there a book in you? Most think there is. And most don’t get them out. You could have the makings of a fantastic novel, a creative young adult series, and exquisitely illustrated young children’s stories. Cookbooks, health, space, romance, intrigue, how-to or business book may be lurking in your creative closet.

You just may be able to take your career to a whole new level with the creation of a book. Adding to your professional credentials, if done right, could position you as the expert in a specific field. A book could talk you to a whole new level, a different type of professional business card. Amazing doors can open with book in hand.

Many wannabe authors, speakers, or whatever, practice the art of one for the money, two for the show, three to get ready, three to get ready, three to get ready … and they never go. They keep reaching for one more thing; one more piece of information; another interview; another who knows what. Sometimes, it’s just another excuse. Their book never gets written, much less published. Their quest for the perfect book has become the enemy of creating a good book, even a great book.

Perfection and Procrastination go hand-in-hand. Break the bond and move forward today.

Step 1:  Choose a spot … any spot that is yours and yours alone. It’s the “Do Not Cross … Author at Work” sport. Authors need their space and time. Space will contain all the ingredients you need to support you. Think computer, phone— if necessary, pens, pencils, paper, files with reference items that you've collected, notes you've saved or made to support your topic, other reference books, a favorite snack (I confess—I've written an entire book with M&Ms and Cheetos being the reward each time I finished a chapter), beverage of choice, toys, etc. Your space. Claim it and let others know that when you are in your space, it’s a “Do Not Disturb … Author at Work” sanctuary.

Find time. Some authors have to work specific hours; others are more loosey-goosey. Do what works for you, but do it.

 

Step 2:  Just do it … even if what you get down looks like gibberish. Is it a cliché? Nope, it’s a start. You can’t move forward to publication until you've  got some words. So dump them out. Think of it as a giant puzzle. Sometimes just finding all the edges takes time.  As in a puzzle, colors begin to gather, segments within it come together, and it does come together if you persevere.  The more you organize your thoughts, stories, stats and general info, the better it is when it comes to the first dump. The general topic, sub-topics, stories/facts/stats to support the topic all go into magic piles.

Where you choose to “dump” is your choice. Some still write all by hand … if you having been procrastinating or dragging your feet—it’s best to bypass this method and either pick up the latest version of Dragon’s Naturally Speaking where you can literally put on a headset with a mic and start talking or glue yourself to a favorite spot and just start writing—writing anything to kick start your creative juices.

With Dragon’s program, your works get transcribed to your computer, and then you clean up spellings and missed words after your dictation is done.  Here’s what you don’t do with a speaking program: watch it as it unfolds on your computer. Guaranteed, it’s the kiss of author death.  You will want to stop. In fact, you will stop. Your creative juices vaporize as you start to correct spelling and do a first run at editing.  DO NOT DO THIS.  You need everything flowing when you are in your zone—you don’t need to make the written word perfect … yet.

 

Step 3:   Get help. You may need book coaching to goose you. You may need to get the big picture in place where you can see the book, even virtually feel what it will look like. Do you know your title … or do you need some help in creating it—don’t be surprised, titles can change as a book progresses … and it can be as firm as a slab of cement. If it’s firm, a mock up of a cover might be the visual encouragement that keeps you going. You will need an editor—content or grammar? All authors need editors who edit (this is not your friend or sister, although they can be readers) … all authors no exceptions.   

Plan on engaging other professionals who create books—interiors and exteriors. Will illustrations or cartoons enhance your work? Unless you are a pro in book design, book covers, illustrations, etc., don’t go down that path. Don't expect to do it cheaply—what does that say about you and the quality of your work?

Step 4:  Make up your mind. It's a new year ... changes are everywhere. What’s it going to be—your first book? A new book? A workbook or Teacher’s Guide to accompany one that you have already written? How about a stellar speech and/or workshop that will take you new places and create new places to see your book? Or an audio program? Do you see a video version of your book or creating Exercises and Projects for readers to use and enjoy? The paths you choose can be multiple, which makes it exciting for the Author. 

Your book can do amazing things ... you need to bring the amazing you to the party and invite the pros in for the journey.

 

Judith Briles is known as The Book Shepherd a book publishing expert and coach. She is the Founder of Author U, a membership organization created for the serious author who wants to be seriously successful. She’s been writing about and conducting workshops on publishing since the 80s. Judith is the author of 31 books including Author YOU: Creating and Building Your Author and Book Platforms (ForeWord Indie/Fab Book of the Year), Snappy Sassy Salty: Wise Words for Authors and Writers and a speaker at publishing conferences.

Become part of her inner circle by joining the Author’s Ark and exclusive monthly webinar and coaching event. Each summer, she holds Judith Briles Unplugged, a two and 1/2 day intensive limited to a small group of authors who want to be seriously successful. In 2015, the dates are August 27-29th.  Her audio and workbook series, Creating Your Book and Author Platform is now available. Join Judith live on Thursdays at 6 p.m. EST for Author U – Your Guide to Book Publishing on the Toginet Network at http://togi.us/authoru. Follow @AuthorU and @MyBookShepherd on Twitter and do a “Like” at AuthorU and Judith Briles – TheBookShepherd on Facebook. If you want to create a book that has no regrets, contact Judith at Judith@Briles.com.

It's About Rules ... the Unwritten Ones in the Publishing Maze

Have you been to a writer's or publishing conference where you are a newbie? You quickly learn, and not so quickly, learn where stuff is; what's the buzz; who the must hear speakers are; what's the protocol for the conference. You learn the Rules ... and many times, the ones that matter the most are the Unwritten Rules. One of my Unwritten Rules is to avoid publishing predators ... in reality, it should be a Written Rule!

There’s a classic scene in the movie, A League of Their Own, when manager Tom Hanks sees one of his outfielders approaching the dugout and she’s crying. He says (actually yells), “Crying?! There’s no crying in baseball!”

Hmmm … now where would that be in the player’s policy manual? It’s not. Our outfielder has been hit with one of the deal breakers of the workplace—the unwritten rules. How was she to know that there was no crying … unless someone told her about it?

The unwritten rules reveal the true culture of any environment. The conference you are attending and groups that you belong to. It’s how people treat each other, work with each other, play games—good and not-so-good—with each other. It's know insider tips on how to connect with others while you are there; how to follow up; what's expected--and not expected (or accepted). Think about media and social media--oodles of items to do, and not to do. Most of us stumble through them it's how we learn.

It's the one hundred plus unwritten rules that can destroy your success as an author, as well as the success of the book.

Recently, I was giving a speech for a group within a hospital association at its annual meeting on one of my books. One of the unwritten rules that surfaced during the exercise I do to reveal them was that if you have to see Sister _______, don’t wear red! Truth be told, the good Sister has taken quite a disliking to the color red. If you want/need something from her, don’t go bearing red. If she sees it, you are discounted, almost become invisible. It’s that simple.

You may think that it’s no big deal, but for Sister it is. And, if you had any savvy, you would have done your homework and known that it was a button-pusher for her. It’s her unwritten rule. Don’t wear red. Wouldn't it have been nice if someone had told you of her strong dislike?

~Unwritten Rules Are Everywhere~

What other button pushers do you know about? Have you even been in a situation that you thought or said, “Why didn't someone tell me about that?”

Yes, Unwritten Rules are everywhere. Most of us stumble through them it's how we learn.And here's my tip: once you see them; understand them ... start to share them with others.

 

A common unwritten could be that the first person in makes the first pot and the person who takes the last cup of coffee make a new pot. Another could be if someone switches from regular to legal size paper in the copier, switch back to regular for the next person or if someone uses fuchsia paper for a flyer, switch back to white.

People who smoke get more breaks (and they don’t count the time toward a break until they get outside and light up).

Don’t sit in Bonnie’s chair or use Phil’s parking space. These are what I call pew rules. Think of a place of worship—have you ever notice that the same people sit in the same place week after week? Workplaces are loaded with pew-type rules. Parking places, pens, mugs, chairs at a meeting, space usage.

Coworkers with kids have rules—more personal phone calls are often allowed, time off for events, not working on holidays. And guess what, it bugs those without kids—they may have someone at home who is not a child and they are responsible for that need communicating with.

~Finding Your Unwritten Rules~

Set aside 15 to 30 minutes over the next few days, and just ponder scenarios in your workplace. Identify the different individuals you work with, those in management or supervisory positions and those in senior management, including your CEO. Next, list the women and men you work with directly.

As you identify coworkers, describe their tasks, their personalities, and the interactions you have with them. Does your manager have any idiosyncrasies, mandates, or dictum's? Do you have rules regarding days off, break time, interactions, or housekeeping? Are there dos and don’ts that everyone seems to abide by? No matter how minor anything seems, note it.

Ask yourself, “What things do you know not to do, and to do, just because you know it?” How did you learn it? By observing? By someone cluing you in?

Many unwritten rules seem common nonsensical, but when the unwritten rules are not followed, they seed discontent. Some rules are sacred cows. Some rules have everyone scratching their heads on why they are in place. A single incident may not seem important, but over a period of time, many small infractions can make life a monstrous hassle. It’s not the written rules (show up, do your job), it’s the unwritten rules that can make or break you and your workplace.

Finally, as you learn the unwritten rules, share them. Wouldn't it be so much easier if there was a list of what and what not to do to keep everyone out of the hot water?

Judith Briles is known as The Book Shepherd a book publishing expert and coach. She is the Founder of Author U, a membership organization created for the serious author who wants to be seriously successful. She’s been writing about and conducting workshops on publishing since the 80s. Judith is the author of 31 books including Author YOU: Creating and Building Your Author and Book Platforms (ForeWord Indie/Fab Book of the Year), Snappy Sassy Salty: Wise Words for Authors and Writers and a speaker at publishing conferences.

Become part of her inner circle by joining the Author’s Ark and exclusive monthly webinar and coaching event. Each summer, she holds Judith Briles Unplugged, a two and 1/2 day intensive limited to a small group of authors who want to be seriously successful. In 2015, the dates are August 27-29th.  Her audio and workbook series, Creating Your Book and Author Platform is now available. Join Judith live on Thursdays at 6 p.m. EST for Author U – Your Guide to Book Publishing on the Toginet Network at http://togi.us/authoru. Follow @AuthorU and @MyBookShepherd on Twitter and do a “Like” at AuthorU and Judith Briles – TheBookShepherd on Facebook. If you want to create a book that has no regrets, contact Judith at Judith@Briles.com.