September 1 question: How do you define success as a writer? Is it holding your book in your hand? Having a short story published? Making a certain amount of income from your writing?
Whoa! This shoe doesn't fit. Yes, I'm thrilled when I spot my books anywhere, a bookstore, a friend's house, or a library. And I'm thrilled if I have something published -- a poem, a story, or a novel. And I'm relieved when the monthly book sales reach a certain point. I always feel a little embarrassed when someone compliments me on the writing.
Because, for me, being successful as a writer tags to something else entirely: Immersing myself in the craft of writing. Nearly every morning. When the story unfolds as fast as I can type. When I laugh with my characters or cry. When the words zing on the page. When the scene 'feels' finished, and the next story emerges.
Like right now, this moment, as I balance between final revisions on one project and the first draft of another. Yes, I can be insecure (and, in case you hadn't guessed, introverted). Success as a writer means bringing my stories to life in a way that reaches out and moves readers, perhaps enriching their lives -- even for a moment. Which means leaping out of my comfort zone to face down that other challenge -- reaching out to readers!
My question in return is: Given the pandemic and all that has changed, when was the last time you reached out to your readers? What did you do? What tips can you share? How does your relationship with your readers strengthen your writing?
What's next? Why not join this wonderful community of over 160 writers who care about the craft and who, like me, tackle each day with a weird mixture of doubt and courage. All you need to do is post your own thoughts about writing on your blog and then go to the Insecure Writer's Support Group. Read posts from 10-12 participating writers. Maybe even start with this month's awesome co-hosts: Rebecca Douglass, T. Powell Coltrin @Journaling Woman, Natalie Aguirre, Karen Lynn, and C. Lee McKenzie!
Above all, know that your words are appreciated, and, especially these days, your writerly gift is needed to comfort, heal, and sustain the rest of us.
I so agree with how you measure succes by immersing yourself in the craft of writing. Me too.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Natalie, for stopping by and for sharing your thoughts about the importance of simply writing! Write on!
DeleteWriting is wonderful when I'm immersed in it like that.
ReplyDeleteI reached readers through two online events last spring. One was through an online conference, the other through an local author group doing online events. For the fall, I am going to attend two live events and hope to do one online event - all in the same eight day stretch in October, right after my book launches. It's going to be a little tough. After that, I've put out a few "asks" for in-person events at bookstores and on local radio stations. I'll see what kind of response I get. CoVID is forcing me to be creative and brave.
Hello, Tyrean. What a great idea to jump right into online events, something I haven't tried . . . yet. I'll be following your progress, especially as you work on that book launch in October. Congratulations!
DeleteOh, and I'm planning on launching my own Youtube/podcast type show in the next month or two. I'll mostly want to do pre-recorded type things, but I may be asking other authors to join me. Let me know if you are interested.
ReplyDeleteHello again, Tyrean. Yes, another writer I know is starting to record mini-shows reading his poetry and talking about writing. Please keep me posted! Yes, I'm interested and will write you.
DeleteSuch a lovely post, Beth. Your accomplishments are indeed inspiring, your words encouraging. I hadn't realized how detached I'd become from the whole point of pouring my heart out in words. Writing is always worth it, but sharing helps it matter. Thanks for reminding me ;-)
ReplyDeleteHello, Diedre. Thank you for stopping by. Your comment makes me think again about the importance of sharing what we write -- and the many, many forms that can take. Sometimes I think the effects of the pandemic have led us to be a little more isolated; thus, the importance of reaching out. May the coming month be good to you.
DeleteI try to send an email out to people who subscribe to my list at least once a month. I know the pundits say you must do more, but I'm not sure that works for me. I don't like stuffing peoples inbox, but I do like letting them know when I have something to share that I think/hope they'll be interested in.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with sending that newsletter monthly. Some months, though, I do doubt if anything would be interesting or helpful. Your newsletters have always brought me a renewed appreciation for the writing life. Thank you!
DeleteHi Beth,
ReplyDeleteI need to reach out more. I have a newsletter that is overdue and I will work on it this weekend, because I do feel it is so important to stay in touch with my readers.
Shalom aleichem,
Pat G @ EverythingMustChange
Dear Pat, All I can say is . . . me too! Thank you for connecting goals to action -- and inspiring me!
DeleteYour answer to this month's question comes from the heart and defines a real writer, Beth! I've been super active on social media and contacted magazines to review Plunge. That's how I've been spreading the word and "pushing" my book these last eight months. It's working pretty well. I even did an in-person event (see my last blog), which was fun and different.
ReplyDeleteDear Liesbet, Thank you for stopping by. Yes, I admire your energy and commitment, and am in awe of the work you've done to promote PLUNGE. Congratulations! I hope you have continued access to internet and can stay connected to readers and your own writing!
DeleteAs ALWAYS, Beth, you INSPIRE, both in thought and in action.
ReplyDeleteLove your follow-up question! It reminds me that I've just set up a WordPress blog, to focus more on direct published book-related stuff. I can definitely learn a lot from other writers and bloggers about how to better reach out to readers!
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