Publication Pitfalls #IWSG - August 2018

Hi, gang! Thanks for all the visits last month. I had lots of fun during my first time as IWSG co-host. For any of you who've thought about volunteering to co-host but haven't done it yet, I highly recommend it. The time commitment's not bad and it's a perfect opportunity to reach further into blogland and meet more IWSGers while learning from their experiences.

The August optional question is:
What pitfalls would you warn other writers to avoid on their publication journey?

So many pitfalls...but I'll zero in on one bit of advice: don't obsess too much over one book. Whether you're seeking publication or the book is in the midst of the publication process or has just been released, don't let that one story consume your world - because that will drive you crazy and it's unproductive. 

While you're in the waiting stages - waiting to hear back from agents/publishers, waiting for notes from your editor, waiting for the next sales promotion to kick in - be working on the next project. For me, it's proven to be the best way to relax and remind myself that my entire life doesn't hinge on the fate of one book. 

I obsessed way too much over my first book. It's true authors have to put tons of time and energy into writing, marketing, etc., but I was like a squirrel chasing every possible avenue for book promotion, which left me with zero time or focus for writing my next book. The very best marketing you can do for existing books is to write the next book, and I wasn't doing that. 

If you feel like you're banging your head against a wall trying to get one project published, maybe take a break from the head banging and write something else. That something else might be the project that gets you where you want to go.   

This post is part of the monthly blog hop/therapy session known as Insecure Writer's Support Group, founded by the one and clonely Alex J. Cavanaugh. Click below to join the group!

Co-Hosts:
Erika Beebe
Sandra Hoover
Susan Gourley
Lee Lowery