Kate M. Colby's Blog, page 4

My 2018 Goals and Resolutions

Welcome, new readers! And welcome back, longtime readers! I hope you enjoyed your holidays and New Year festivities, and are ready to tackle 2018 with me.

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If you read the blog last year, you know that I’m a major goal junkie. Whether that’s New Year’s resolutions or just my daily to-do list, I’m always gunning to tick off those pesky must-do tasks and thinking forward to my larger goals. So, late December / early January is one of my favorite “seasons.” It’s a time to reflect on my accomplishments, consider where I want my writing and life in general to go, and plan out the next year.

Over the last few years, I’ve adopted my husband’s tradition of making one resolution per year of my age. That means I’m making 25 for 2018. (Before you comment about how you’re 48 and could never do this … the whole mentality is that you find more reasons to live and make the most of your time as you age … there’s no rule against making small, simple goals!).

As I sat down to write my New Year’s resolutions, I realized that most of them don’t have the typical “resolution” quality. Sure, some of them speak to personal habits or lifestyle improvements, but the majority are simply goals or tasks that I aim to accomplish. As usual, with 25 goals, I’m biting off more than I can chew.  In 2017, I “only” hit 17 of 24 goals … but if I hadn’t set so many objectives, I wouldn’t have done even that much.

I know I won’t accomplish every goal I set. But if I shoot for the moon, I can still hit several stars along the way.

Usually, I list out all my goals and resolutions to share with you. This year, I’m going to share a few of them, but mostly focus on the larger reasons and themes that connect my goals. (Some are rather personal in nature, and others details exciting projects I’m not yet at liberty to discuss!)

Writing Goals

[image error]Same as last year, my primary writing goal is to create (either writing, editing, or outlining) at least five days per week. Like many writers, I still struggle with consistency. I’ll write a whole book in 90 days or less … then go for a month without putting a single word on the page. I know consistency is the key to a sustainable, long-term writing career (as well as my specific production goals), so it remains top of my list.

As for my specific production goals, I’d like to finish the Desertera series this year. This means writing and publishing the final two books in the series, and hopefully putting out a complete boxed set and starting audiobook versions. I’d also like to kick off my dark fantasy / paranormal thriller series … and I have a few other ideas in the works too.

Business Goals

Most of these are pretty boring for non-entrepreneurs (okay, even for some entrepreneurs too), so I won’t go into too much detail. Mainly, I want to refine my author brand. With three novels, a nonfiction series, and several other endeavors under my belt, I think I finally have a strong grasp on who I am as a writer and who my readers are. Everything I do with my business in 2018 will focus on creating value for my readers, sharing more of myself, and building assets/revenue so I can do even more in the future. So, yes. MY business is really all about YOU.

Personal Goals

[image error]In the second half of 2017, I finally made exercise a regular part of my life. I also started meditating. These are habits on which I hope to expand in 2018. I’m lucky to be young and in good health … so I want to keep it that way as long as possible! (Though, I’ll still have the occasional cookie — especially if it’s that cute!)

Another major theme of my personal goals is being more present and intentional with my actions. Like many people, I feel the need to be superhuman and do ALL THE THINGS. This societal-/self-imposed pressure has led to stress and even migraines (which resurfaced with some negative events at the end of 2017). So, one of my big goals is to stop multi-tasking and focus on one task at a time. I’m hoping that this will reduce how often I feel “spread too thin,” as well as increase my efficiency and the quality of my work, whatever the task may be.

How I’m Tracking My Goals

For daily tasks that apply to my goals (such as meditating, exercising, writing, reading, etc.), I use a habit tracker on my phone. This allows me to check off each task as it is accomplished, as well as see my progress for the week, month, or year. Sometimes, I’m surprised by how much I completed … and other days, it’s the harsh wakeup call I need!

For weekly, monthly, and one-time 2018 goals, I’ve created my own tracker in Google Sheets. Each category of goals has its own sheet, and once a week, I will go into the spreadsheet and report my progress. Instead of simply checking off a goal or leaving it blank, I’m marking it off with a color (green for accomplished, red for failed, and yellow for partially accomplished) for an easy and immediate visual representation of my progress. At the end of 2018, I hope my spreadsheet will have lots of green!

Making Your Own Resolutions

[image error]If you’re looking for advice on making your own resolutions or goals, I give my strategy in this post. (And Dr. Google has millions of tips too). In the end, what it comes down to is deciding what’s really important to you (not what you “should” do, but what you genuinely want to do), dreaming as big as you can, then working toward that dream with several small, specific, and realistic goals. It might take the whole year (or several years) to accomplish your dreams, but if you don’t start taking those steps, you’ll never make it.

And if you’re one of those New Year Scrooges who hates resolutions, that’s fine too.

As for me, I’ll keep shooting for that moon one goal at a time.

What are your goals and resolutions for 2018? Why did you choose these objectives? Share your dreams (and tips for reaching them!) in the comments.

2017 Year-End Update

[image error]Looking back on 2017, the year hasn’t been as much of a dumpster fire as I originally thought. Author-wise, I published my third Desertera novel, The Tyrant’s Heir, re-evaluated my writing and business goals, and strengthened connections with my amazing readers and author friends. On the personal side, I lost two beloved family members to chronic illnesses, moved from Connecticut to California (with a brief vacation at home in Kansas), and traveled to new places in the United States.

When it comes to New Year’s resolutions, I accomplished far more than I did in 2016! My husband and I have a tradition of making one resolution per year we’ve been alive, so I made 24 goals for 2017. I never expect to achieve them all — but if I shoot for the moon, I still hit the stars. And I hit quite a few stars this year.

Writing & Publishing

[image error]1. Create (write, edit, outline, or research) 5 days a week

My average ended up being four days per week, as I allowed myself extended breaks for my cross-country move and two bereavement periods.

2. Write Desertera #3

3. Edit Desertera #3 (C)

4. Publish Desertera #3 (C)

5. Write a second novel

While I didn’t start drafting, the world is built and ready to write for 2018!

6. Edit a second novel

7. Start Desertera #4

8. Make 2018 production schedule

Business

9. Make $2,000 from Boxthorn Press

Just a little short!

10. Create freebie for Writing Newsletter subscribers 

11. Create freebie for Reader List subscribers

12. Blog 2x per month

13. Maintain social media schedule

14. Diversify existing products (audiobooks, box sets, etc.)

I’ll be focusing on this in 2018 instead!

15. Do one marketing/promotion task per month

Choosing to forgo marketing until I have a larger catalog is why I didn’t hit my income goal. While I’m disappointed with myself, I know playing the long game will pay off eventually.

16. Read 52 books

I read 40 books. Now that I don’t ride the train every morning, I need to find a new reading time!

Personal

[image error]17. Work on positivity

18. Exercise 3x per week

19. Break a bad habit

20. Recoup savings account post-Yale

21. Make post-Yale plan

22. Visit final NYC sites

23. Visit new state

24. Visit new country

I achieved ALL of my personal goals! Here’s to leaving 2017 a happier, healthier, and better-traveled human!

Overall, I’m pleased with how much I accomplished in 2017. I’ll be finalizing my 2018 New Year’s resolutions today, and I can’t wait to dive into them. Here’s to a fantastic year!

What did you accomplish in 2017? What goals are you setting for 2018? Share them in the comments!

Filed under: Author Business & Publishing, Fiction Blog, Writing Updates Tagged: 2017, ambition, amwriting, author life, blogging, fantasy, goals, independent publishing, indie publishing, list, long term goals, new years resolutions, planning, publishing, science fiction, self-help, writing

Month-End Update: November 2017

Living in California has been interesting for several reasons … but the weather here has me downright disoriented. As I write this on a “chilly” December day, it’s 53 degrees Fahrenheit. Yesterday reached 61. I’ve been sweating in my favorite “fall” clothes, and I can’t help but laugh at my neighbor’s blow-up snowman. I feel like it’s been September for three months, and I can barely believe it’s December … I have to be in some dystopian novel, right?

[image error]Well, whether I believe it or not, November is over. And it was a much better month than October. My husband and I had two house guests and attended a lovely Thanksgiving wedding (yes, they served turkey!). While I didn’t “really” commit to NaNoWriMo, I finished my short story draft, outlined (most) of Desertera #4, and had a little affair with my upcoming Salem book. Friendly reminder: if you want to catch up on the Desertera series before book four launches, check out my Desertera Holiday Sale.

Though 2017 isn’t over yet, I’m already in goal-setting mode. I’m thinking a lot about where I want to take my writing and business in 2018 (and beyond), and I’m excited about my plans. After two years as an independent author, I’ve learned a lot (some from my own mistakes) and I feel like I’m finally finding my true voice. Thank you all for sticking with me so far — I can’t wait to see where this journey takes us.

Writing & Publishing

[image error]Main goals:

Create five days a week – a little behind

Start Desertera #4 – on its way …

Between house guests and a Thanksgiving wedding, I didn’t devote as much time to my writing as I would have liked. That being said, I’ve laid some important groundwork for December (and 2018).

The fourth Desertera novel is mostly outlined (at least with what I’m confident won’t change during drafting), and I’ve completed most of my research for my upcoming dark fantasy series. Now, it’s time to finish the year strong!

Business

[image error]Main goals:

Make $2,000 from Boxthorn Press – almost there!

Create short story for my Reader List – in progress

Blog twice per month – on track

Read 52 books this year – catching up!

While I’m not sure whether I’ll make my sales goal for the year (partly my own fault for not advertising as much as I should have), I’m close! Likewise, the short story for my Reader List is in the editing phase, so it’s nearly finished. Blogging is going well again, but I’m not sure if I’ll reach my reading goal … perhaps time to break out the graphic novels for some quick reads!

Books Read:

Angel & Faith: Season 10, Vol. 4 by Victor Gischler

Angel & Faith: Season 10, Vol. 5 by Victor Gischler

The Missing by Chris Mooney

Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn

Book in Progress:

The Black Arts: A Concise History of Witchcraft, Demonology, Astrology, and Other Mystical Practices Throughout the Ages by Richard Cavendish

Story: Substance, Structure, Style, and the Principles of Screenwriting by Robert McKee

Personal

[image error]Main Goals:

Work on positivity – still going well

Break a bad habit – dare I count this as done?!

Exercise 3x week – still doing it!

I have a weird relationship with my personal goals. While I know they are most important for my longterm health and happiness, they feel less urgent than my writing and business goals.

That being said, I’m really proud of myself. I’ve maintained positivity through a difficult year, broken my bad habit, and have finally made exercise a priority in my life. Now, if I could just yank out that sweet tooth …

DECEMBER GOALS

Finalize 2018 goals

Continue Desertera #4

Continue Desertera short story

Finish Dark Fantasy pre-production

How did your November go? If you participated in NaNoWriMo, how much did you accomplish? Share your successes, failures, and goals in the comments!

Filed under: Fiction Blog, Writing Updates Tagged: author, business, drafting, dystopian, entrepreneur, fantasy, goals, month-end update, monthly update, NaNoWriMo, reading, resolutions, science fiction, self-publishing, steampunk, writing

Desertera Holiday Sale

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As the holiday season approaches, our minds turn to two things: gratitude and shopping. To say thank you for your support AND help with your holiday list, I’ve put the entire Desertera series on sale for a limited time in signed paperback (available through my website only) and ebook format (available at all major online retailers). Whether you’re curious about the series, have fallen a book or two behind, or are eager to introduce a friend, now is the time!

Signed Paperbacks: $10 Each + FREE U.S. Shipping

[image error]U.S. readers: Click the title(s) below to select an individual book or the complete Desertera series (as published so far). They’re JUST $10 each and shipping is FREE. Sale ends December 31.

Buy T he Cogsmith’s Daughter (Desertera #1)

Get  The Courtesan’s Avenger (Desertera #2)

Order  The Tyrant’s Heir (Desertera #3)

Enjoy The Complete Desertera Series (Books #1-3)

International (non-U.S.) readers: you’ll pay just $10 per book, plus receive an extra $3 OFF (the equivalent of U.S. shipping) your shipping cost. Contact me for your special deal.

Want a custom message or a different name in your signed copy?

Make a note in your order or shoot me a message!

Ebooks: 3-for-1

[image error]Pick up a digital copy of any Desertera book for JUST $0.99 USD (or the equivalent in your country’s currency). That makes the full series JUST $2.97!

Use the links below to choose your favorite online retailer. And don’t delay — prices return to normal ($2.99 each) on November 29.

Buy The Cogsmith’s Daughter (Desertera #1)

Get The Courtesan’s Avenger (Desertera #2)

Order The Tyrant’s Heir (Desertera #3)

Thank you again for supporting my writing, sharing the series with your friends, and hanging out on the blog and social media. Here’s to finishing the Desertera series strong in 2018 and to entirely new novels to come!

Filed under: Fiction Blog, The Desertera Series Tagged: discount ebooks, dystopian, ebook, fantasy, holiday sale, independent author, indie books, indie books be seen, sale, science fiction, signed books, steampunk, steampunkish, the desertera series

Which Books Are You Grateful For?

Despite all the negativity surrounding Thanksgiving, the holiday endears itself to me more each year. Why? At its essence, the American tradition of Thanksgiving is about coming together with family, sharing a special meal, and taking just one day to express gratitude. 

[image error]Thanks to Black Friday (the day after Thanksgiving), Thanksgiving has started to be overshadowed by Christmas shopping, But, as Americans have become desensitized to the “amazing” deals, and Black Friday sales have pushed themselves into Thanksgiving night, there’s been a quiet call to reclaim the good parts of Thanksgiving. The family time, the gratitude, the restfulness. Yes, please.

For the second year in a row (and in my entire life), I’ll be spending Thanksgiving away from my family (and, almost as regrettably, my Uncle Dave’s famous smoked turkey). Now, I know you might not be an American or a meat eater, but I have a strong feeling you’re probably a reader. So, fellow bookworm, would you indulge me in a little bookish gratitude?

In the spirit of Thanksgiving and our insatiable craving for book recommendations, drop the title of a book you’re thankful for in the comments. It could be a book that brought you joy, helped you through a difficult time in your life, or even one you wrote yourself!

[image error]What book am I grateful for? I’ll give you a simple answer and a serious answer. I’m thankful for Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn for getting me through the bulk of a 14-hour plane flight from Australia to the U.S. No matter what I do, I cannot sleep on planes for more than a few minutes at time, so having that novel engross me to the point where I lost track of time was a huge relief.

On a more serious note, I recently found myself grateful for one of my own novels. A reader shared that reading The Courtesan’s Avenger had served as an escape from her depression and that the themes of the novel resonated with and inspired her. That is exactly why I write, and it meant so much to me that something I imagined could do that for her. I was also thankful to “pay it forward,” as several books have helped me through tough times or made me feel less alone.

Now, before you scurry off for turkey or holiday shopping (no judgments), share your own bookish gratitudes in the comments. Feel free to add non-book gratitudes too – mine include my husband and our feline son, the friends who invited us to share Thanksgiving with them this year, and the internet for connecting me with you!

Filed under: Fiction Blog, Musings & Bookish Things Tagged: amreading, book lists, books, bookworm, favorite books, gratitude, holidays, reader, reading, tbr list, thankful, thanksgiving

Month-End Update: October 2017

If October were a chapter in a novel, I would let my eyes linger over the final word. Then, I would take a deep breath and close the book, keeping my thumb wedged between the pages to mark my place. As I cradled the tome against my chest, my eyes would sting with tears already cried, but a small smile would play at my lips. After a few moments, I would sigh and reopen the novel, ready to face whatever Chapter 11 had in store.

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In other words, October was bittersweet. The month began with a personal loss, but also with an outpouring of love for which I am incredibly grateful. It ended with a wonderful visit from my best friend and a few days exploring my new, long-term but still temporary, home in San Francisco (that’s us at the Golden Gate bridge). Somewhere in between, I followed my creative passions to some major world-building for my upcoming dark fantasy series … but didn’t make as much progress as I’d hoped in Desertera.

All in all, October has been a bit of a mixed bag. But, sticking with my “positivity” New Year’s resolution, I’m going to focus on the good. I wrote more in October than I did in September. I’m feeling more confident in my author skin. And I’ve got two more months to work on my 2017 goals!

Now, let’s recap the details …

Writing & Publishing

Main goals:

Create five days a week – still a little behind

Write a second novel – starting for NaNoWriMo!

While my October word count is nothing to write home about, it’s exponentially better than September. Though I’ll be starting NaNoWriMo late (due to my friend’s visit), I plan to write a large chunk of a new novel. Good news for Desertera fans: given my recently revised publishing plan, this will now be Desertera #4!

Business

Main goals:

Make $2,000 from Boxthorn Press – catching up

Create short story for my Reader List – in progress

Blog twice per month – on track

Read 52 books this year – catching up!

Things are slow but steady in the business realm. There’s a lot I want to put into practice for 2018, so I’m trying to focus more on writing for the rest of this year. Once again, good news for readers!

Books Read:

Angel & Faith: Season 10, Vol. 3 by Victor Gischler

Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Season 10, Vol. 3 by Christos Gage

Selkie Cove (Ingenious Mechanical Devices #5) by Kara Jorgensen

Interview with the Vampire by Anne Rice

Angel Omnibus by Jeffrey J. Mariotte

The Sixth Gate by K.T. Munson

Book in Progress:

Story: Substance, Structure, Style, and the Principles of Screenwriting by Robert McKee

Personal

Main Goals:

Work on positivity – still going well

Break a bad habit – huge improvement!

Exercise 3x week – still doing it!

While being positive was difficult this month, I’m still proud of the attitude I maintained. Though I did have two stress migraine days (my first in over a year), I remembered to be kind to myself and give my body the time it needed to rest. As for my bad habit and exercising, I’m actually impressing myself with the progress I’ve made and even rewarded myself to some goal-related treats. Woot!

Goals for November

Participate in NaNoWriMo (and ideally catch up)

Send Desertera short story to my editor

Begin Desertera #4

Continue re-evaluating and planning for 2018

How was your October? What’s your project for NaNoWriMo? Share your successes, failures, and goals in the comments!

Filed under: Fiction Blog, Writing Updates Tagged: author, business, drafting, dystopian, entrepreneur, fantasy, goals, month-end update, monthly update, NaNoWriMo, reading, resolutions, science fiction, self-publishing, steampunk, writing

Why We Love Ghost Stories

Katherine crept down the basement stairs, cringing as each step sent a creak throughout the empty room below. While she was allowed to play in the basement, she didn’t want any of the adults to hear her go down there. She needed to escape the half-empty boxes, tearful conversations, and big decisions. Though no one had asked her to participate, she still felt compelled to solve the problems, ones she could only begin to understand.

[image error]As Katherine reached the bottom of the stairs, her sneakers squished into the dingy brown carpet. Despite the warm, 1970s color palette and the bright light bulb hanging over the pool table, the room sent a shiver down her spine. Katherine had visited the house hundreds of times in her 12 years, but this was only her second visit since her great-grandmother had died.

The first had been on the night IT happened. Katherine and her parents had received the phone call during dinner, discarded their unfinished plates, and rushed into town. All the commotion had passed by the time they arrived. So, they stood around the edges of the living room with the rest of the family, each member careful not to disturb the towel in the center of the floor. Katherine almost wished they’d hadn’t covered up the blood. She worried her imagination was worse than the reality.

Alone in the basement, Katherine walked over to her great-grandmother’s pantry closet. Sliding back the door, she surveyed the shelves. They were stacked full with brownie mixes, canned vegetables, and more. Atop each container, her great-grandmother had written the expiration date in thick, black Sharpie. Katherine touched her fingertip to one of the dates, partly sad that her great-grandmother would never reach 11/05, partly comforted by her familiar scrawl.

As Katherine pulled back her hand, goosebumps rose across her arm, and she got the distinct feeling that someone was watching her. She turned around, expecting to see her mom or one of her aunts waiting on the stairs. No one was there.

Just as Katherine started to turn back around, the light bulb above the pool table flickered. Katherine froze and stared. The light bulb flickered again, and that time, the chain swung back and forth, clinking against the glass bulb.

Putting her hand over her mouth to avoid screaming, Katherine turned and bolted up the stairs. As she reached the top, she slammed the door shut and pressed her back against it. Her mom rushed in from the kitchen, her forehead wrinkled in concern. “Are you okay?”

[image error]“Mom, the basement is haunted!” Katherine gulped in a deep breath and pressed her hand to her chest, as if that would keep her heart inside her rib cage. “The light bulb over the pool table flickered. And the chain… it was moving like someone had pulled it.”

“Wow.” Mom rubbed her lips together, and her eyes narrowed in thought. After a moment, she gave a small smile. “I bet grandpa was just teasing you. I’m sure he’s happy now that grandma is with him again.”

Katherine wrinkled her nose. “You think?”

Mom nodded. “He was always a trickster. I’m sure he’s having a good laugh at your expense.” Mom’s face softened, and she rubbed Katherine’s shoulder. “But don’t worry. You know he would never hurt you.”

“Of course.” Katherine shifted from foot to foot. She knew her mom was right, but something about the house still felt wrong. Even if the ghost had just been her grandpa saying hi or playing a joke, she needed some fresh air. “I’m going to go outside and see what Daddy is doing.”

No ghosts, not even Grandpa, could bother her with Daddy there to protect her.

Unfortunately (or maybe fortunately), that’s the only real-life ghost story I know. Oh, yes. I am not a Katherine. But that Katherine and her story represent me.

Despite my lifelong fascination with the paranormal and supernatural, I’ve never come closer to a ghost or monster. And as I’ve grown older, I’ve rationalized that moment from my childhood to normality (I haven’t asked my mom if she believes in what she said, but since she reads my blog, I bet she’ll tell me…). The light bulb was probably just close to burning out or a large appliance, like the furnace clicking on, caused it to blink. The jolt of electricity (or my wild imagination) could have caused the chain to move. I don’t know. I’m not an electrician. But ghosts can’t be real… right?

[image error]Every October, I remember my near-ghost experience as I bask in the glory of Halloween. This year, as I’ve suffered yet another family death, it got me thinking: why do we love ghost stories? And why, not-so-deep down, do I hope my great-grandpa really was teasing me that day?

On the surface, the answer seems obvious. If ghosts are real, then there’s something after we die. Whether its heaven or hell, purgatory or haunting our old house, we continue to exist. It’s a comforting thought — for our future and all the loved ones who have already passed away.

On the other hand, maybe ghost stories prepare us for the opposite. After all, who wants to turn into an evil specter and harm the living for eternity? Maybe nothing would be better than being a Grade A asshole until Sam and Dean come along and blow us away with rock salt.

And perhaps it’s even a little deeper than that. In a way, ghost stories allow us to “experience” death in the same way that romance stories allow us to “fall in love” through their characters. And by doing so, they also remind us to appreciate life.

We often see the tormented ghost berating the innocent protagonist, until it finally lets go of its lost life and finds peace. As we reject the ghost’s behavior, we commit ourselves to being a better dead person than it is. We will accept our fate with dignity, and as such, we will appreciate our life while we have it, “live life to the fullest,” etc. Thus by entertaining the ghost story, we end up feeling more alive.

Then again, maybe there’s nothing deep to it at all. Maybe some of you twisted souls just like to be scared.

I, for one, do not. So, Grandpa, if you’re still present in the ether and watching over me as I write this… please don’t mess with the lights. At least not until sunrise.

How do you feel about ghost stories? Have you have any encounters with the supernatural? Share your experiences in the comments!

Filed under: Fiction Blog, Sci-Fi, Fantasy, & Geeky Things Tagged: afterlife, death, flash fiction, ghost story, ghosts, halloween, horror, paranormal, spooky stories, supernatural

Month-End Update: September 2017

Have you ever had an experience that fundamentally changed your view of a subject? Maybe you read a transformative novel or attended a mind-blowing lecture or traveled to a new country. This month, I had one of these experiences, right here at my desk.

[image error]During the last week of September, I attended the Smarter Artist Bootcamp hosted by Sterling & Stone (which I’m sure you’ve seen me mention a time or twelve). This free event featured five two-hour workshops, in which Johnny, Sean, and Dave shared their process on planning, writing, editing, publishing, and marketing a novel. I attended Bootcamp last year, and it was really helpful, so I was extremely excited for the 2017 edition.

What I didn’t expect was a major revelation. I won’t go into details here — partly to avoid boring you and partly because I still have a lot of soul-searching to do. However, the main point is that I finally realized how much I’ve grown over the last three years and how my desire to be super human (aka do ALL THE THINGS) has held me back. So, while I start my next novel and finish out 2017, I’m going to allow myself to rethink everything I’m doing and only keep the essentials that bring you the best stories I can write.

Now, let’s take a quick look at the goals, so I can get on with October!

Writing & Publishing

Main goals:

Create five days a week – still a little behind

Write a second novel – hoping to start this month

While I didn’t complete as much writing as I would have liked in September, I accomplished strong pre-production work (e.g. outlines, worldbuilding, character sheets, etc.). Though I want to count this as a win, I also know I’m suffering from a little analysis-paralysis. Too many ideas! Too many characters! Too many series! In October, it’ll be back to drafting.

Business

Main goals:

Make $2,000 from Boxthorn Press – catching up

Create short story for my Reader List – in progress

Blog once per week – fun plans for October

Read 52 books this year – catching up!

After attending Bootcamp, I am sorely tempted to re-evaluate my business goals. Instead, I’m going to save that for 2018 and focus on finishing 2017 as strong as I can. I’m really excited about the blog posts I have planned for October (all Halloween related!), and I’ve found more reading time, which has done wonders for my creativity and stress levels.

Books Read:

A Time to Die (The Legend of Carter Gabel #3) by Jonas Lee

Revived (Foreverers #1) by Nina del Arce

Risen Gods by J.F. Penn and J. Thorn (audiobook)

Angel & Faith: Season 10 Vol. 2 by Victor Gischler, Will Conrad, & Joss Whedon

Buffy The Vampire Slayer: Season 10 Vol. 2 by Christos Gage & Rebekah Issacs

Book in Progress:

Selkie Cove (Ingenious Mechanical Devices #5) by Kara Jorgensen

Story: Substance, Structure, Style, and the Principles of Screenwriting by Robert McKee

Personal

Main Goals:

Work on positivity – still going great

Break a bad habit – a little setback

Exercise 3x week – actually doing it!

At risk of sounding like a cliché, moving from the East Coast to the West Coast has dramatically improved my quality of life. My new work-from-home schedule gives me the afternoons to focus on myself, and I’ve started a meditation practice that has done wonders for my positive outlook. Daniel and I have also recommitted ourselves to exercise, and I’ve worked out at least three times per week since we moved here. We’re eating healthier too. It’s been so refreshing!

Goals for October

Finish Desertera short story for my Reader List

Start drafting my next novel

Begin thinking ahead to NaNoWriMo

Track author/business activities to decide what should stay/go in 2018

How was your September? What goals do you have for the last quarter of 2017? Share your successes (or failures — no judgment here!) in the comments.

Filed under: Fiction Blog, Writing Updates Tagged: author, business, drafting, dystopian, entrepreneur, fantasy, goals, month-end update, monthly update, NaNoWriMo, reading, resolutions, science fiction, self-publishing, steampunk, writing

Why Do You Write? (An Idea Revisited Two Years Later)

If you’re reading this, I assume you want to be or already are a writer. I also assume that there’s a decent chance you want to be a full-time author. So, if that’s you, let me ask you two difficult questions: Why do you write? And why do you want to be a full-time author, when there are hundreds of easier career options?

[image error]Now, your gut instinct is probably something like, “Come on, Kate! Writing is my life. Those questions are so easy!”

But do me a favor and really think about it. I’ll give you a personal anecdote while you ponder your own situation …

After my recent move from New Haven to the Bay Area, I’ve had a difficult time getting back in my creative groove. I have a lot of perfectly valid excuses: organizing the new place, adjusting to a new work and household routine, exploring new shops and landmarks, to name a few. But, I think I finally understand the real issue.

Whenever I meet new people, I introduce myself as a writer. I include my novelist side, but I always admit, with a twinge of unnecessary shame, that my books don’t pay the bills. I’m “really” a copywriter for a wine marketing company (which has actually helped my fiction writing). It sounds super-sexy on paper, and while most of the time I just stare at a computer screen like every other office worker, it is a great job. Though I’m still the lowest rung on the company ladder, I could make copywriting/marketing a long-term career. And I think it would make me happy.

It would be SO. MUCH. EASIER. to just let go of my author ambitions and relax into the 9-to-5 life. I’m NOT saying every 9-to-5 job is easy, and I’m definitely challenged at my work, but giving up the author stuff would relieve me of several challenges. I could stop spending nights and weekends at the computer. I could stop heaping guilt on myself when I don’t meet my creative goals. I could stop spending hard-earned, harder-saved money on editing, cover designs, and marketing expenses. I could stop all the other nuisances of indie authorship and still call myself a professional writer.

[image error]Back to you: your situation is obviously much different from mine. Maybe you’re working a job you loathe. Maybe you have tons of extra money to shower on self-publishing. Maybe you view writing solely as a career and aren’t bothered by any of the emotional, passionate aspects.

Still, I ask again: Why do you write? And why do you want to be a full-time author?

(If you’re a fan of the Sterling & Stone trio, you can probably guess that I’m a big believer in Sean’s “Know Your Why” mantra, which this insightful article discusses more eloquently than I can.)

While contemplating this question, I remembered a blog post I wrote over two years ago. It lists the reasons why I write, along with some great additions from fellow writers in the comments. They all still hold true, but they don’t answer why I want to write fiction professionally and not just as a hobby.

After giving it some careful thought and seriously evaluating my larger personal/life goals, here are a few of my reasons:

Writing is my greatest passion.

Writing is my most employable skill.

Creative satisfaction means more to me than conventional success.

I want to be my own boss and set my own working hours.

I want the freedom to vacation when and how I choose.

I want to work be able to work from anywhere in the world.

I don’t want to regularly manage other people.

I don’t want to give up my dream to help someone else achieve theirs.

I love storytelling.

I want the opportunity to make my daily work meaningful and valuable.

I want to entertain, inform, and educate others.

I want to make a difference in the world and provide a source of escape for others.

Conclusion? Being a full-time writer both satisfies my creative passions and provides several practical benefits that “regular” jobs cannot.

If you’re in a similar situation to me (and I know at least one of my friends reading this is), do yourself a favor and ask these questions. You might realize that writing is just a hobby for you — and that is 100% awesome. Or (more likely, I bet), you’ll realize that full-time authorship is really the career you want. If that’s the case, you’ll be armed with a list of reasons to keep you motivated when the going gets tough. And trust me, it will get tough.

But, if you’ve made it all the way to the end of this post, I’m sure you’ll agree that it’s also wholly, completely, utterly worth it.

Leave your reasons in the comments and cheer on your fellow authors. If you’re already living the full-time dream, I’d love to hear whether your “why” remains true now that you’ve reached your goal. 

Filed under: Author Business & Publishing, Musings & Bookish Things, Writing & Publishing Articles Tagged: amwriting, author, career goals, creative writing, dreams, entrepreneur, fiction writing, goals, independent author, indie author, indie publishing, inspiration, know your why, motivation, self-publishing, writer life, writers life

Should Books Be Written on Soapboxes: Social Responsibility & Literature

As someone raised in the Midwest, I learned at a young age not to discuss sex, politics, or religion. While I’ll gab about the former with the right people (and after a glass or two of red wine!), I tend to avoid politics and religion. From a cultural standpoint, I learned by example that discussing these issues seems pointless and sometimes rude. How can I, as one little person, cause any real change in the world? Why waste my time trying to alter someone’s mind on such divisive topics? What does someone’s political affiliation or religious beliefs matter if they’re a good person?

[image error]From a personal standpoint, I feel I have no right to discuss these issues. Since I don’t have a political or religious association of any kind, who would take me seriously? How can I ensure the information I learn is even factual? And, given how much I hate conflict, why open myself up it?

However, with the current state of the world, politics and religion are becoming increasingly difficult to avoid. And perhaps rightly so. Between the radical propositions made by President Trump, Alt-Right/Nazi rallies (a phrase I never thought I’d type in present-day context), and devastating climactic events, politics and religion arise in nearly every conversation. And as I sit there, mouth clamped tightly shut while friends and family members rattle off their views and theories, I have a realization.

While I don’t often voice my views on contentious issues, I’ve written them into my books.

In the Desertera series, I’ve woven in several topics I care strongly about — sometimes intentionally, sometimes not. I advocate for a positive view of female (and all) sexuality. I grapple with the de-criminalization of prostitution (an issue I’m still uncertain about). I support homosexuality by making it a non-issue in society (except for where it prevents the nobles from having biological heirs). I condemn classism and social stratification. And, especially in the final books of the series, I’ll warn the reader about climate change.

Listed bluntly like this, I marvel at my boldness. I do have opinions — quite a few that would shock my fellow Midwesterners — but I’ve made them more palatable, I hope, by lacing them in fiction. And I’m not alone. Not by a long shot.

Most of the literary fiction I studied in college contained moral or political messages for the reader. Many of my author friends use their writing to advocate for causes or social issues. Hell, Science Fiction as a genre basically serves as a warning from the future (it’s one of the reasons I’ve always been attracted to it). You’ll find the same agendas in nearly every form of artwork at nearly every stage in history.

[image error]This brings me to the crux of this article: As an author, do you feel a social responsibility to stand on your “soapbox” in your writing? And as a reader, how do you feel when authors “preach” a message within a novel?

I don’t think there’s a right or wrong answer.

On one hand, inserting your views into fiction can be a noble endeavor. It gives readers with similar views a safe place in entertainment. It allows readers with different views a chance to consider a new perspective without being personally attacked. And it offers you, as the author, to remain at arm’s length from the topic.

On the other hand, shouldn’t fiction just be fiction? In a world where the news constantly showers us with depressing topics, our social media feeds fill with contention, and our dinner table conversations get usurped by arguments, we need a break. Isn’t it just as noble for books to offer pure entertainment and unbiased escape?

I go back and forth on this issue a lot.

As a writer, I do feel an obligation to make my fiction meaningful. Though, I don’t always agree with myself about what is “meaningful.” Sometimes, I want to use my fiction as a platform. Other times, I just want to offer my reader that innocent escape.

Same goes for when I’m reading a novel. Mostly, I appreciate when an author attempts to make me think deeper — so long as she writes in way that feels respectful to me and doesn’t belabor her point. Though, other times, even the slightest hint of an agenda will make me cringe and wonder, “Why can’t I just enjoy this story for the story’s sake?!”

Maybe it’s about choosing which type of author you want to be, or which type of writing is right for each particular story. Maybe it’s about knowing what your ideal reader expects. Maybe it’s about striking a balance between theme and entertainment. Maybe it’s about being sneakier, having your cake and eating it without the reader even noticing you baked it.

My specific answer keeps changing, based on whether I’m writing or reading, the story itself, the mood I’m in, even the day (it’s no coincidence that I’m writing this on 9/11). But my politically correct, moderate, agnostic answer remains the same: as long as the author respects the story and the reader, that’s what matters most, soapbox or not.

What do you think? Do authors have a responsibility to advocate for their political/religious views in their fiction? As a reader, do you expect a “message” from the author, or are you only looking for entertainment? Leave your thoughts in the comments.

 

Filed under: Fiction Blog, Musings & Bookish Things Tagged: author, fiction, indie author, literary analysis, politics, reader, reader expectations, reading, social responsibility