Carma Spence's Blog, page 54

July 26, 2023

Book Marketing Tip: Gamification

People love to play. So, help them make your book an integral part of their downtime. Create a game or interactive experience that ties into the themes or characters of your book. It could be a mobile app, an online puzzle, or even an augmented reality (AR) scavenger hunt. Gamification can generate excitement, encourage word-of-mouth promotion, and provide a unique and immersive way for readers to engage with your work.
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Published on July 26, 2023 04:37 Tags: book-marketing-tip, gamified-marketing

July 25, 2023

Life is a carousel

I’ve always loved carousels. I’ll hop aboard one every opportunity I get. They are such an amazing metaphor for life. Sometimes you get to ride the horse that bobs up and down. Sometimes you lounge in the dragon-painted chair and kick back. Sometimes you get the brass ring and sometimes you don’t. But it doesn’t matter, you’ll come back again and have another chance to do it better.
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Published on July 25, 2023 04:45 Tags: carousel-day

July 24, 2023

PODCAST: Unleash the Power of Intention in Your Writing

I'm thrilled to share with you the latest episode of The Author Switch Podcast, episode number 30, titled From Intention to Impact: How To Find the Why That Fuels Your Book. In this episode, I dive deep into the power of intention in writing a book and how it can shape the success and impact of your work.

As an award-winning and bestselling author with five books under my belt, I've come to understand that three crucial elements must be in place for a book to thrive:
1. Your intention,
2. Your target market, and
3. The message that bridges the two.

Throughout this episode, I reveal the secrets to uncovering your book's intention, understanding your target audience, and crafting an authentic message that resonates with your readers.

You'll discover how a clear intention gives you focus, direction, and a sense of fulfillment during the writing process. It enables you to connect with your readers on a deeper level and create a lasting impact through your work. Drawing inspiration from impactful books like Susan Cain's "Quiet! The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking," I illustrate how a well-defined intention can transform the way the world sees your book.

Are you ready to take your writing journey to the next level?

Listen to the podcast episode on Spotify here: authorswitch.com/spotify

Or watch it on the website here: authorswitch.com/impact

To help you discover the true purpose behind your book, I've prepared an exercise that prompts you to answer important questions about the impact you want your book to have on readers. This self-reflection exercise will help you align your intention with your message and target audience.

Remember, it's essential to get clear on these three key elements before you start writing. The synergy between your intention, audience, and message will be the driving force that propels your book toward success and impact.

For those who want even more personalized guidance, I invite you to book a free, no-cost, no-obligation Curious Conversation with Carma. Let's explore how I can help you set your book's intention, match it to your target market, and craft a message that resonates deeply with your readers. Schedule your Curious Conversation here: authorneering.com/schedule

Happy writing and happy listening! I hope this episode inspires you to embark on a transformative writing journey.

P.S. If you know any fellow authors or aspiring authors who would benefit from this episode, please feel free to share the Spotify or website links with them. Let's spread the power of intention in writing far and wide!
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Published on July 24, 2023 05:33 Tags: authors-life, book-writing, podcast, the-author-switch, writing-tips

July 22, 2023

Embracing the Power of Action and Inspiration

In our pursuit of authorial dreams, we often wait for inspiration to strike. However, the Muse rarely visits when you’re not actively working on your book. She hides in our experiences, and her presence is only discovered through action. When we engage in our craft, inspiration flows. It emerges gradually as we navigate challenges. Waiting stagnates progress. So, start imperfectly and embrace the process. Inspiration will meet you halfway. Keep going, keep creating, let inspiration unfold.
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Published on July 22, 2023 14:06

July 19, 2023

Book Marketing Tip: Book Subscription Boxes

Partner with book subscription box services to include your book as part of their monthly subscription packages. These subscription services cater to avid readers who enjoy discovering new books. Go beyond the ordinary: Collaborate with the service to create an exclusive edition, bonus content, or even a personalized letter to engage and delight subscribers.
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Published on July 19, 2023 04:34 Tags: book-boxes, book-marketing, subscription-box

July 18, 2023

We all have our gifts

I’ve loved writing since I was at least four years old. Writing is one of my gifts and I am so grateful for it. But there are plenty of things I don’t do well, such as sports, ballet, and physics. But that didn’t stop me from trying (how do you think I know I’m not good at them?)! The best way to discover your gifts is to try out new things and learn what works for you. You might be surprised at what you uncover!
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Published on July 18, 2023 06:56

July 17, 2023

Healing through the Author’s Journey

🎙️ New Episode Alert! 📚

Tune in to the latest episode of The Author Switch Podcast, where I have an inspiring conversation with Jennifer M. Alemany, the author of "Mark My Love." Join us as Jennifer shares her transformative journey of turning grief into a powerful memoir. Discover how she found solace in writing, learned the ropes of self-publishing, and gained valuable insights about love, loss, and embracing life from a fresh perspective. Don't miss this heartfelt discussion that will leave you inspired to follow your dreams and prioritize self-love. 🎧✨

🎧 Listen here: https://authorswitch.com/spotify

📺 Watch here: https://authorswitch.com/jennifer-ale...
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July 15, 2023

Embracing the Journey of Writing and Motherhood

Today is a milestone birthday for my Mom, and as you read this I'm hanging out with her in California. Yay!

Thinking about the impact Mom has had on my life made me think about how writing a book is a little like being a mom. (Hey, I wasn't blessed with children, so God blessed me with books and pets to compensate.)

Anyway, writing a book is a journey that demands your heart and soul. It is filled with ups and downs, challenges and triumphs. As a mother pours love into her child, an author pours words onto paper, nurturing a creation that will touch lives.

Just like a mother's unconditional love, a writer's dedication knows no bounds. Countless hours are spent shaping prose and weaving intricate ideas, just as a mom shapes her child's future. Both endeavors require patience, perseverance, and an unwavering belief in the magic of growth and transformation.

The process of writing a book is a labor of love, just as motherhood is. Both can be messy, chaotic, and overwhelming at times, but they are also incredibly rewarding. Each word on the page is a reflection of the author's innermost thoughts and emotions, just as a mother's actions speak volumes about her unconditional love.

In the journey of writing, self-doubt may creep in, mirroring the insecurities that sometimes plague motherhood. But just as a mother finds strength in her child's smile, a writer finds solace in the power of storytelling. They both learn to trust their instincts, nurturing their creations with boundless love.

Both motherhood and writing require sacrifice. Sleepless nights spent tending to a crying baby are akin to sleepless nights spent perfecting the nuances of a book. Yet, in those sacrifices, both mother and writer find purpose and fulfillment. The joy of seeing a child take their first steps parallels the thrill of seeing your book in print.

But perhaps the greatest similarity lies in the legacy we leave behind. A mother's love shapes a child's life, just as a writer's words shape the hearts and minds of readers. Both have the power to inspire, teach, and leave an indelible mark on the world.

So, to all the mothers who write and all the writers who embrace the essence of motherhood, celebrate the incredible journey you're on. Embrace the challenges, cherish the moments of joy, and believe in the power of your creations. You are shaping lives, nurturing souls, and leaving a legacy that will transcend time.

And to my mom, thank you for helping to shape the person ... and author ... that I am. Without you, there would be no me, and therefore no books that I've created. ❤️📚🌸
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Published on July 15, 2023 07:53

July 12, 2023

Book Marketing Tip: Interactive Online Events

Engage readers and potential readers through interactive online events like virtual book clubs, live Q&A sessions, webinars, LinkedIn audio events, and Facebook Lives. These events provide an opportunity for direct interaction, fostering a sense of community and building a loyal reader base. Promote these events through social media, email newsletters, and event promotion websites.
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Published on July 12, 2023 04:42 Tags: book-marketing-tip, interactive-events, online-events

July 11, 2023

Happy Cow Appreciation Day!

I’ve had two opportunities in my life to milk a cow. 🐄

The first time was at the Texas State Fair … and not one drop did I get. The second time was a couple of years ago at the Minnesota State Fair. This time, I achieved milk! 🥛

Life can kind of be like milking a cow. If at first you don’t succeed, try again! You just might get some milk! #CowAppreciationDay
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Published on July 11, 2023 04:45 Tags: cow-appreciation-day