In this episode of "What If? For Authors," Claire Taylor addresses a common anxiety among authors: "What if my books never take off?" Drawing from her experience as an Enneagram Certified Coach and her own author journey, Claire explores the balance between preparation and luck in achieving success, the importance of feedback, and how to find deeper purpose and enjoyment in writing regardless of external success. This episode offers a compassionate and realistic approach to managing expectations and sustaining an author career over the long term.

Key Takeaways:

Preparation vs. Luck: Understanding the role of luck in author success and how to stay in the game long enough for luck to find you.

Feedback and Improvement: The importance of seeking and accepting feedback to improve your books without taking it as a personal indictment.

Dealing with Uncertainty: How to tolerate the uncertainty of whether your books will take off and finding ways to balance the pain of uncertainty with the joy of writing.

Purpose and Enjoyment: Connecting to a deeper reason for writing that provides immediate fulfillment and sustains you through the ups and downs of an author career.

Self-Compassion: Practicing kindness and compassion towards yourself and deconstructing the lies that link your self-worth to external success.

Why Listen? If you find yourself questioning whether your books will ever take off or struggling with the uncertainty and pressure of author life, this episode offers valuable insights and strategies to help you stay motivated and find deeper meaning in your writing journey. Claire's empathetic guidance will help you navigate the challenges and uncertainties of being an author with resilience and hope.

Join the Conversation: Have a question or fear you'd like me to explore? Reach out to me at [email protected].

Access the transcript here.

Happy Writing!