You know those days when you mean to write, but somehow you end up reorganizing your bookshelves, cleaning your inbox, or deep-diving into random research that totally feels productive. . . but isn’t? Yep — that’s avoidance in disguise. We all do it! Sometimes it’s fear, perfectionism, or the mental fatigue of needing to learn a new skill to level up or your author business. 👉 Tell me: What’s your go-to avoidance activity when you’re avoiding your writing? (I’ll go first — mine is “I just need to clean the bathroom and do the dishes really quick.” 😅) Let’s see if we can laugh about it together and maybe even catch ourselves next time it happens and get our buttocks in the chair and hands on the keyboard instead!

We’re officially in Q4, and that can bring up two very different feelings: 😬 “The year’s almost over, and I didn’t do half of what I planned.” Or. . . ✨ “There’s still time to finish strong!” Here’s the good news — it’s not too late to make progress before the year ends! Even a few focused weeks can move the needle on your goals and sales. Here's how: 👉 Plan one promotional period or marketing blitz (Black Friday is a great time for this but also, people are always hunting for books as gifts or to read for themselves for the holidays!) 👉 Outline your Q4 goals - what would success look like for you in these next 3 months? 👉 Prep your next release or refresh your backlist 👉 Plan ahead for rest! You need time off and the holidays are always a good time to slow down with intention. What do you need to get done and prepare before then to make that a restful time for you and restore your creative juices? The key is to pick one or two priorities and finish the year with intention - not stress. How are you planning to make the most of these last few months of the year?

Some authors swear by a daily or weekly word count goal to keep their writing on track. Others find the numbers intimidating and prefer to focus on “time spent writing” or just finishing a scene. 👉 I’m curious: - Do you set daily or weekly word count goals? - Do you find word counts motivating. . . or more stressful than helpful? There’s no “right” answer here — the best system is the one that keeps you writing!

So many authors battle that nagging thought: “Who am I to be writing this? Am I even a real author?” Here’s the truth: - EVERY author feels this at some point. Even bestselling writers doubt themselves. I don't think it's something that ever goes away. - Imposter syndrome doesn’t mean you’re not a writer - it usually means you are stretching yourself and letting yourself grow through being uncomfortable with the creative process. - The best antidote? Keep writing, keep learning, and keep connecting with your readers. Don't stop. - The fact that you are experiencing this and asking yourself this means you are NOT an imposter or a "fake" author. People who are imposters don't stop to ask themselves this. 👉 How about you? Have you struggled with imposter syndrome in your author journey? What helps you move past it?

One of my favorite opportunities to encourage authors to pursue is right in their own backyard: bookstores! Many indie and chain stores love supporting local authors through signings, launch events, and even stocking books on their shelves! 👉 A few quick tips: - Start small. Walk in, introduce yourself, and get to know the staff before asking about events. - Bring a one-sheet. A simple flyer with your book info (genre, tropes, topics it covers, etc), cover, and contact details makes it easier for them to say yes. - Offer value. Frame it as a partnership: you’ll promote the event to your audience, bring in foot traffic, and make it fun. Local connections not only help you sell books, they also build long-term community support. Have you ever done a bookstore signing, or is it something on your list to try?