About Being “Lucky” as an Indie Author
I’m a firm believer that luck in your writing career is something you create, not something that just happens.
Just like I wasn’t “lucky” to have a successful 23+ year career as a business and marketing coach — I built it. I spent years honing my craft, learning the ins and outs of online marketing, and working with mentors and thousands of students.
My success came from consistently doing four things, the same four things I’m now applying to my indie author career. I’m sharing them with you here so that you too can apply these same principles to your own journey as an indie author.
Here’s how you can start creating your own luck in your writing career:
1. Always Be Learning
As writers, we’re constantly growing—not just in our craft but in how we market ourselves and reach readers. Whether it’s mastering a new plot structure, learning how to run Amazon ads, or studying what makes a great book blurb, the more you learn, the more you grow, and the better you’ll get at all of it.
If you’re not learning, you’re not evolving as a writer, and that can stall your progress. Every bit of knowledge you gain—whether it’s about writing or marketing—adds up and shows in your connection with readers and in your book sales
2. Implement What You Learn
Learning is great, but if you don’t put it into action, it’s just wasted energy. I always try my best to implement what I learn, whether it’s a new writing technique or a fresh way to promote my books and other offers.
And if you’re feeling overwhelmed with the to-do list, especially when it comes to marketing, delegate if you can, or use proven processes and templates to help.
Pick one thing you’ve been meaning to implement, whether it’s setting up your author newsletter or finishing that short story. Set a deadline, ask for help if you need it, and get it taken care of – then celebrate!
3. Leverage Your Time and Talent
As an indie author, time is one of your most valuable resources. So, how do you get more out of the time you have? By leveraging your efforts. My go-to rule is the “3+” method: if I’m going to put effort into something, I ask myself if I can use it in at least three different ways.
For example, if you write a blog post about your writing process, you can turn that content into a newsletter, a podcast episode, or social media posts that drive traffic back to your website. Repurposing content is key to maximizing your efforts.
4. Find a Mentor or Community
Writing can feel like a solitary journey, but it doesn’t have to be. I’ve had mentors since I was a teenager, and they’ve made a huge difference in my personal and professional growth. Whether it’s through writing groups, author communities, or investing in a mentor, having someone to guide and support you can make all the difference.
Find a writing mentor or join a community of fellow authors who can offer advice, feedback, and encouragement. You don’t have to go it alone.
Take Action and Create Your Own Luck
Which of these four resonates with you the most? Pick one and start applying it to your writing life. Whether it’s committing to learning something new, implementing a strategy, leveraging your time, or seeking out guidance, you have the power to create your own success as an indie author.
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When you’re ready, here’s how else I can help:
1. Join the Indie Fiction Authors Circle for just $25/year for ongoing support here
2. Take the Online Marketing Map for Indie Fiction Authors course here