By Piper Huguley
At the end of next month, I will have been a published author for a full year. As I come into the close of my first year as a published author, I can see how much of my writing life has had to change because of the new responsibilities that I now have.
I had to have a very serious sit down with some fellow writers of mine in how I’ve been neglecting the business side of things. A lot of that neglect, I realize comes from fear. I understand how to deal with some things (like how to write a novel). Getting and EIN and a business AMEX card? Not so much. Do I know how to create a mailing list and update my website so that it looks more professional….eh, no. I come from the kind of family where, if we didn’t know how to do something, we would hire someone to do it. Well, I don’t make the kind of bank that means that I can hire someone to do the business kind of things. And I reminded of something Oprah was told early as she built her empire “Sign all of your own checks.” Certainly we have seen many artists get “taken” when they didn’t know how to do something.
So I recognize that this is a new era in my life. I’m trying to make sure that I do as I must to remain healthy and strong in spirit, heart and mind as I navigate new territory in the second part of this year. As I do, I’m reminded of the saying, “Feel the fear, and do it anyway.” It makes me so happy that God has my back as I’m doing it.
Piper Huguley’s newest series will be released in July. A Virtuous Ruby, which is Book One of the Migrations of the Heart series, is available for pre-order on Amazon, Nook, itunes and Google Play.
Boy.. you just tugged on my coat tails again. I have been fighting stepping out in the literary world for months. I realize it “my fear” of being on the front line. Thanks for this confirmation Piper 🙂
It will stop you for sure if you let it Cilla! We have to go right through it instead! You are so very welcome and thank you for commenting!
Continue to be that fresh voice in the industry, sis.
Thank you, Pat! I’m trying!
Fear is part of the journey. But my friend you are navigating it very well. You know who you are You know your voice. And you know what stories you want to tell. Everything else will come together. Blessings.
Thank you for your kind words Sandra. I appreciate them so very much.
The funny thing about all this is that once you learn it, it will change. So come on in 🙂
So true, Michelle and well said. Thank you!