Heidi Angell's Blog, page 39
December 9, 2015
Blundering Along, Blogging and Building
Hello lovelies,
As you know, I have been working on building my blogging more intentionally. I have been working on more consistency and I think I am getting that down pretty well. Now I am looking to expand. I have been approaching other authors to do more author interviews, character spotlights, and guest posts on my site to help fill the posts, as well as reaching out to other bloggers to participate in blog hops and blog tours.
I am really excited about one we have coming up in January, New Year New Books blog tour being hosted by Ama et Bema. If you are a reader, you should definitely follow along as we will be showcasing several authors who have new releases in 2016. If you are a blogger, Ama is looking for any bloggers who would like to be a tour host, and if you are an author who has a book coming out in early 2016, definitely get in touch with her so we can showcase your books!
I really enjoy doing blog tours and hops. It is so much fun, not only as a host, but also as a reader being able to go to other blogs and see their different takes.
Anyone else participating in a blog hop or blog tour, let me know as I would love to participate!
I am also reaching out to other bloggers as a guest blogger. This has been a fun and interesting part of building and growing. It often feels hard enough to come up with content for my own blog, and now I am reaching out to these other bloggers and have to come up for content for them as well! But it is fun to be able to step into another writer's space and engage with their audiences. It is also nice because typically they tell me what they would like me to write! Takes a lot of pressure off, let me tell you!
So any bloggers out there who would like me to write on your blog, just let me know what topic you would like covered (Or let me know you would like me to come write on your blog and I will offer some suggestions based on your content. I can handle some pressure ;) )
And in that vein, I was recently invited to guest post on Tasha's Thinkings, for her Writerly Wednesday post about Editing. (Yes, it goes live today!) If you are looking for an editor, and the different terms are confusing you, (like content editing, line editing, copy editing, final edits and proof reading) then you will definitely want to check this post out.
Any thoughts? Share in the comments below!
Until next time,
Keep Reading and Writing!
As you know, I have been working on building my blogging more intentionally. I have been working on more consistency and I think I am getting that down pretty well. Now I am looking to expand. I have been approaching other authors to do more author interviews, character spotlights, and guest posts on my site to help fill the posts, as well as reaching out to other bloggers to participate in blog hops and blog tours.
I am really excited about one we have coming up in January, New Year New Books blog tour being hosted by Ama et Bema. If you are a reader, you should definitely follow along as we will be showcasing several authors who have new releases in 2016. If you are a blogger, Ama is looking for any bloggers who would like to be a tour host, and if you are an author who has a book coming out in early 2016, definitely get in touch with her so we can showcase your books!
I really enjoy doing blog tours and hops. It is so much fun, not only as a host, but also as a reader being able to go to other blogs and see their different takes.
Anyone else participating in a blog hop or blog tour, let me know as I would love to participate!
I am also reaching out to other bloggers as a guest blogger. This has been a fun and interesting part of building and growing. It often feels hard enough to come up with content for my own blog, and now I am reaching out to these other bloggers and have to come up for content for them as well! But it is fun to be able to step into another writer's space and engage with their audiences. It is also nice because typically they tell me what they would like me to write! Takes a lot of pressure off, let me tell you!
So any bloggers out there who would like me to write on your blog, just let me know what topic you would like covered (Or let me know you would like me to come write on your blog and I will offer some suggestions based on your content. I can handle some pressure ;) )
And in that vein, I was recently invited to guest post on Tasha's Thinkings, for her Writerly Wednesday post about Editing. (Yes, it goes live today!) If you are looking for an editor, and the different terms are confusing you, (like content editing, line editing, copy editing, final edits and proof reading) then you will definitely want to check this post out.
Any thoughts? Share in the comments below!
Until next time,
Keep Reading and Writing!
December 7, 2015
Author Interview: Colleen S. Myers
Hello lovelies!
We are doing an author interview with Colleen S. Myers who plays many roles. Not only is she a veteran, a mother, and a practicing physician, but she is a writer of science fiction and contemporary romances. Colleen’s dreams include surviving her son’s teenage years, exploring every continent on this planet, except Antarctica, cause that’s way too cold, and winning the Nobel peace prize. Dream BIG! Collen's debut book Must Remember! just came out the first part of November. Without further ado, let's meet Colleen!
How are you? I am doing really well, Looking forward to Christmas. This is my favorite holiday season, mainly for the sheer glow of goodwill that tends to hang in the air (most of the time, unless you broach Black Friday shopping.)
I hear ya, I love Christmas too! And I never go Black Friday shopping! I am all about decorating on Black Friday!
What is the current book you are promoting? My first book was released 11/2/2015, MUST REMEMBER! It is the start of the Solum series se otn the distant planet of guess what, Solum! Its sequel is slated to be released June 6th, 2016 and the final chapter (for Solum at least) is scheduled for December 2016
How very exciting! I love series. Especially when I don't have to wait too long for the next book.
Who is your favorite character in your book and why? I am all about the villains. I think the complexity of what made them the way that they are is fascinating. Thus my favorite character in my book is Xade. The reader will learn a lot more about his motives as the story progresses.
Juicy villains are the best!
What inspired this book? I daydream all the time about what ifs and what could be's. This just kind of came to me that way. I love romance that is sexy but also makes you think.
If your book were made into a movie, who would you cast?
Charlie Hunnam!
Well not really, but he is my current man crush (I loves him so). I haven't really thought about casting per se as of yet, But if you check out my Pinterest page, you can see how I envision the characters.
Charlie is super yummy, but I love your character visuals on your Pinterest page. What a great idea!
What is your next project? I am currently writing the third book in this series and finishing up a contemporary romance novel that is Earth-based and pulls on my experiences in the military with a crippled hero.
Sounds great! I am always working on multiple projects too. Gotta keep that creative juice flowing.
Who is your favorite author? Oh, that is like asking me to only eat one potato chip! I love so many authors. I think that is why writing is so interesting. Yes, we all have genre's we gravitate towards, but some days I want to read a comedy, others a thriller. It all depends on my moods. My tastes do tend to run toward fantasy authors though, Ilona Andrews, Nalini Singh, Jim Butcher, John Grisham, Thea Harrison. So many good ones out there!
I love meeting author's who are as eclectic in their reading tastes as I am! It was such a joy to have you join our little piece of the blogosphere.
Here is the teaser for Must Remember!
Nineteen-year-old Elizabeth ‘Beta’ Camden is a survivor. When the E’mani—those pale alien freaks—destroy Earth with a plague of madness and scoop up the remains, Beta is one of the ‘lucky’ ones. For years, she endures their tortures, experiments and games. Then one day, she manages to escape their ship with her life, and no memory of her time with them. Stranded on their world, Beta wanders the mountains, looking for a way home. She stumbles onto the Fost—the E’mani’s ancient enemy. Their war with the E’mani is old and rooted in magic that the Fost once had and the E’mani crave. Magic Beta soon discovers she’s developing along with strange tattoos and disturbing glimpses of her past. The Fost take her in and train her in their ways. As she spends more time with them, she falls in love with their culture and with Marin—he of the hot hands and slit eyes. But the E’mani took her for a reason and they want her back—dead or alive. If Beta doesn’t remember that reason soon, they’re all going to die. If this appeals to you, you can purchase Must Remember! on Amazon:It is also available onBarnes and Nobles , Kobo , All Romance/ARE cafe and Champagne books
You can keep up with Colleen S. Myers on her website or on her social media sites:Facebook Twitter Google + Instagram Linked In Goodreads Have you read Colleen's book? Would you like to read Must Remember? Let us know in the comments below.
Until next time,
Keep Reading!
We are doing an author interview with Colleen S. Myers who plays many roles. Not only is she a veteran, a mother, and a practicing physician, but she is a writer of science fiction and contemporary romances. Colleen’s dreams include surviving her son’s teenage years, exploring every continent on this planet, except Antarctica, cause that’s way too cold, and winning the Nobel peace prize. Dream BIG! Collen's debut book Must Remember! just came out the first part of November. Without further ado, let's meet Colleen!
How are you? I am doing really well, Looking forward to Christmas. This is my favorite holiday season, mainly for the sheer glow of goodwill that tends to hang in the air (most of the time, unless you broach Black Friday shopping.)
I hear ya, I love Christmas too! And I never go Black Friday shopping! I am all about decorating on Black Friday!
What is the current book you are promoting? My first book was released 11/2/2015, MUST REMEMBER! It is the start of the Solum series se otn the distant planet of guess what, Solum! Its sequel is slated to be released June 6th, 2016 and the final chapter (for Solum at least) is scheduled for December 2016
How very exciting! I love series. Especially when I don't have to wait too long for the next book.
Who is your favorite character in your book and why? I am all about the villains. I think the complexity of what made them the way that they are is fascinating. Thus my favorite character in my book is Xade. The reader will learn a lot more about his motives as the story progresses.
Juicy villains are the best!
What inspired this book? I daydream all the time about what ifs and what could be's. This just kind of came to me that way. I love romance that is sexy but also makes you think.
If your book were made into a movie, who would you cast?
Charlie Hunnam! Well not really, but he is my current man crush (I loves him so). I haven't really thought about casting per se as of yet, But if you check out my Pinterest page, you can see how I envision the characters.
Charlie is super yummy, but I love your character visuals on your Pinterest page. What a great idea!
What is your next project? I am currently writing the third book in this series and finishing up a contemporary romance novel that is Earth-based and pulls on my experiences in the military with a crippled hero.
Sounds great! I am always working on multiple projects too. Gotta keep that creative juice flowing.
Who is your favorite author? Oh, that is like asking me to only eat one potato chip! I love so many authors. I think that is why writing is so interesting. Yes, we all have genre's we gravitate towards, but some days I want to read a comedy, others a thriller. It all depends on my moods. My tastes do tend to run toward fantasy authors though, Ilona Andrews, Nalini Singh, Jim Butcher, John Grisham, Thea Harrison. So many good ones out there!
I love meeting author's who are as eclectic in their reading tastes as I am! It was such a joy to have you join our little piece of the blogosphere.
Here is the teaser for Must Remember!
Nineteen-year-old Elizabeth ‘Beta’ Camden is a survivor. When the E’mani—those pale alien freaks—destroy Earth with a plague of madness and scoop up the remains, Beta is one of the ‘lucky’ ones. For years, she endures their tortures, experiments and games. Then one day, she manages to escape their ship with her life, and no memory of her time with them. Stranded on their world, Beta wanders the mountains, looking for a way home. She stumbles onto the Fost—the E’mani’s ancient enemy. Their war with the E’mani is old and rooted in magic that the Fost once had and the E’mani crave. Magic Beta soon discovers she’s developing along with strange tattoos and disturbing glimpses of her past. The Fost take her in and train her in their ways. As she spends more time with them, she falls in love with their culture and with Marin—he of the hot hands and slit eyes. But the E’mani took her for a reason and they want her back—dead or alive. If Beta doesn’t remember that reason soon, they’re all going to die. If this appeals to you, you can purchase Must Remember! on Amazon:It is also available onBarnes and Nobles , Kobo , All Romance/ARE cafe and Champagne books You can keep up with Colleen S. Myers on her website or on her social media sites:Facebook Twitter Google + Instagram Linked In Goodreads Have you read Colleen's book? Would you like to read Must Remember? Let us know in the comments below.
Until next time,
Keep Reading!
December 4, 2015
Poetry Corner: Lies
I can't believe a word you say
why must you always treat me this way.
Someday you're gonna be lonely,
and you won't find me waiting around.
That's when you will be sorry,
and realize what you had found.
But it's too late,
after all the lies you chose.
You've lost your chance.
You'll want to hang yourself by the toes.
But you chose to lie instead.
You could have had true love,
but now you hang your head.
I cannot blame you,
but I know it is not my fault.
I guess that is just the way it goes.
I wrote this after a play I did, in which the male lead led me on and used me for my vehicle and my support of him. The irony is that I would have given him rides and everything, even without him leading me to think that he liked me. Unfortunately, he only knew how to use others to get what he wanted.
We are still in touch. He has a relatively successful career playing bit parts in B movies and I support him by watching every single one. My husband laughs every time he sees the guy and says that idiot really missed the boat. That is one lie I will gladly believe!
What are your feelings about this poem? Share in the comments below!
Until next time,
Keep Reading!
why must you always treat me this way.
Someday you're gonna be lonely,and you won't find me waiting around.
That's when you will be sorry,
and realize what you had found.
But it's too late,
after all the lies you chose.
You've lost your chance.
You'll want to hang yourself by the toes.
But you chose to lie instead.
You could have had true love,
but now you hang your head.
I cannot blame you,
but I know it is not my fault.
I guess that is just the way it goes.
I wrote this after a play I did, in which the male lead led me on and used me for my vehicle and my support of him. The irony is that I would have given him rides and everything, even without him leading me to think that he liked me. Unfortunately, he only knew how to use others to get what he wanted.
We are still in touch. He has a relatively successful career playing bit parts in B movies and I support him by watching every single one. My husband laughs every time he sees the guy and says that idiot really missed the boat. That is one lie I will gladly believe!
What are your feelings about this poem? Share in the comments below!
Until next time,
Keep Reading!
December 2, 2015
Writerly Things: Black Friday-Cyber Monday Promo Results
Hello my lovelies,
As you may (or may not) know, I did my first Black Friday through Cyber Monday promo....
and was very disappointed with the results. Because results are what matter, right?
Let's start with the good stuff:
I got several shares during my promo (thanks everyone on Facebook and Twitter who shared!)
I noticed something interesting on Facebook. I did not promote my posts as my budget is... limited at best. Facebook gave my promotional posts a lot less exposure than my other posts. (None got more than 20 views, even though most of my posts get 40+ views at any given time.) Very shady, Facebook!
I got a lot more engagement on Twitter, despite not promoting my posts. Makes me more inclined to spend my valuable limited budget there.
I got about the same number of views directly on my blog. I also shared on Pinterest and Google + and with several promo groups on Facebook, Google +, LinkedIn and Goodreads, but got no notable reaction.
Fortunately, I did not spend a penny, but I did spend upwards of 15 hours of effort in planning, promoting, and after analysis.
At my other jobs, 15 hours of work gross's me $300.
From my promo? $9.38
Ouch.
Back to the drawing board.
What are your top tips for promotion? Share in the comments below.
As you may (or may not) know, I did my first Black Friday through Cyber Monday promo....
and was very disappointed with the results. Because results are what matter, right?
Let's start with the good stuff:
I got several shares during my promo (thanks everyone on Facebook and Twitter who shared!)
I noticed something interesting on Facebook. I did not promote my posts as my budget is... limited at best. Facebook gave my promotional posts a lot less exposure than my other posts. (None got more than 20 views, even though most of my posts get 40+ views at any given time.) Very shady, Facebook!
I got a lot more engagement on Twitter, despite not promoting my posts. Makes me more inclined to spend my valuable limited budget there.
I got about the same number of views directly on my blog. I also shared on Pinterest and Google + and with several promo groups on Facebook, Google +, LinkedIn and Goodreads, but got no notable reaction.
Fortunately, I did not spend a penny, but I did spend upwards of 15 hours of effort in planning, promoting, and after analysis.
At my other jobs, 15 hours of work gross's me $300.
From my promo? $9.38
Ouch.
Back to the drawing board.
What are your top tips for promotion? Share in the comments below.
November 30, 2015
Cyber Monday Book and Service Promotional
Hello my lovelies,
I am continuing my promotions through this lovely Cyber Monday, for those of you who were not able to take advantage of it over the weekend! You can get my books for $1.00 a piece by grabbing the promo code below. If you are looking for editing services or layout for print or digital, I am offering 50% off services to fill up my 2016 calendar. I typically only take 12-15 authors a year, so if you are interested let me know and we can go from there.
Grab the code for the book of your choice, and gift a copy to your coworker, a friend, family, heck grab one for yourself while you are at it!
For the Urban Fantasy vampire fan in your life, grab a copy of The Hunters from Smashwords.
It is a great horror read about vampires who should be killed, not kissed!
It has an average 4.2 star rating on GoodReads, and 4.5 stars on Amazon.
Use the promo code VB94B and get each copy for only $1.00
For your thriller, detective, romance and urban fantasy fans, check out the Clear Angel Chronicles. The first book is Elements of a Broken Mind, and the Second book is Angel's Dance. Fall in love with psychic Clear Angel and Detective Grant Anderson.
Add captionIn Elements of a Broken Mind, you are introduced to sassy genius and psychic Clear Angel, as she tried to stop a serial killer in her home town. Watch as she and jaded detective Grant Anderson use her unique gifts to stop a mad man.
It has a 4.7 out of 5 stars on Amazon and a 4.27 on GoodReads.
Hop on over to Smashwords and use promo code: VM89M
In Angel's Dance, Clear has to help Grant save his daughter, a ballerina in Chicago who has gone missing. With her abilities overwhelmed in such a large city, and her feelings for Grant getting in the way, can Clear pull it together and find the monster before it is too late?
It has a 4.6 on Amazon and a 4.4 on Goodreads.
Hop over to Smashwords and use promo code RU75S
Hope your Cyber Monday is fantastic!
Until next time,
Keep Reading and Writing!
I am continuing my promotions through this lovely Cyber Monday, for those of you who were not able to take advantage of it over the weekend! You can get my books for $1.00 a piece by grabbing the promo code below. If you are looking for editing services or layout for print or digital, I am offering 50% off services to fill up my 2016 calendar. I typically only take 12-15 authors a year, so if you are interested let me know and we can go from there.
Grab the code for the book of your choice, and gift a copy to your coworker, a friend, family, heck grab one for yourself while you are at it!
For the Urban Fantasy vampire fan in your life, grab a copy of The Hunters from Smashwords.
It is a great horror read about vampires who should be killed, not kissed!It has an average 4.2 star rating on GoodReads, and 4.5 stars on Amazon.
Use the promo code VB94B and get each copy for only $1.00
For your thriller, detective, romance and urban fantasy fans, check out the Clear Angel Chronicles. The first book is Elements of a Broken Mind, and the Second book is Angel's Dance. Fall in love with psychic Clear Angel and Detective Grant Anderson.
Add captionIn Elements of a Broken Mind, you are introduced to sassy genius and psychic Clear Angel, as she tried to stop a serial killer in her home town. Watch as she and jaded detective Grant Anderson use her unique gifts to stop a mad man.It has a 4.7 out of 5 stars on Amazon and a 4.27 on GoodReads.
Hop on over to Smashwords and use promo code: VM89M
In Angel's Dance, Clear has to help Grant save his daughter, a ballerina in Chicago who has gone missing. With her abilities overwhelmed in such a large city, and her feelings for Grant getting in the way, can Clear pull it together and find the monster before it is too late?It has a 4.6 on Amazon and a 4.4 on Goodreads.
Hop over to Smashwords and use promo code RU75S
Hope your Cyber Monday is fantastic!
Until next time,
Keep Reading and Writing!
November 26, 2015
Black Friday Book Promotion
Hello Lovelies,
In my house, everyone gets books for every holiday. What can I say, we love to read, especially me. I remember one Christmas, all I got were gift cards for books. My husband felt really bad, but when I realized I had a total of $300 in giftcards to B & N, I was straight up giddy!
And in honor of giving a book for Christmas, I am discounting my books for you! 75% off.
Grab the code for the book of your choice, and gift a copy to your coworker, a friend, family, heck grab one for yourself while you are at it!
For the Urban Fantasy vampire fan in your life, grab a copy of The Hunters from Smashwords.
It is a great horror read about vampires who should be killed, not kissed!
It has an average 4.2 star rating on GoodReads, and 4.5 stars on Amazon.
Use the promo code VB94B and get each copy for only $1.00
For your thriller, detective, romance and urban fantasy fans, check out the Clear Angel Chronicles. The first book is Elements of a Broken Mind, and the Second book is Angel's Dance. Fall in love with psychic Clear Angel and Detective Grant Anderson.
Add captionIn Elements of a Broken Mind, you are introduced to sassy genius and psychic Clear Angel, as she tried to stop a serial killer in her home town. Watch as she and jaded detective Grant Anderson use her unique gifts to stop a mad man.
It has a 4.7 out of 5 stars on Amazon and a 4.27 on GoodReads.
Hop on over to Smashwords and use promo code: VM89M
In Angel's Dance, Clear has to help Grant save his daughter, a ballerina in Chicago who has gone missing. With her abilities overwhelmed in such a large city, and her feelings for Grant getting in the way, can Clear pull it together and find the monster before it is too late?
It has a 4.6 on Amazon and a 4.4 on Goodreads.
Hop over to Smashwords and use promo code RU75S
The great thing about this promotion is that there are no limits on the number of copies, so rack it on up!
Which books will you be getting loved ones for the holidays? Share in the comments below!
Thank you for all of your support, and I hope you enjoy!
In my house, everyone gets books for every holiday. What can I say, we love to read, especially me. I remember one Christmas, all I got were gift cards for books. My husband felt really bad, but when I realized I had a total of $300 in giftcards to B & N, I was straight up giddy!
And in honor of giving a book for Christmas, I am discounting my books for you! 75% off.
Grab the code for the book of your choice, and gift a copy to your coworker, a friend, family, heck grab one for yourself while you are at it!
For the Urban Fantasy vampire fan in your life, grab a copy of The Hunters from Smashwords.
It is a great horror read about vampires who should be killed, not kissed!It has an average 4.2 star rating on GoodReads, and 4.5 stars on Amazon.
Use the promo code VB94B and get each copy for only $1.00
For your thriller, detective, romance and urban fantasy fans, check out the Clear Angel Chronicles. The first book is Elements of a Broken Mind, and the Second book is Angel's Dance. Fall in love with psychic Clear Angel and Detective Grant Anderson.
Add captionIn Elements of a Broken Mind, you are introduced to sassy genius and psychic Clear Angel, as she tried to stop a serial killer in her home town. Watch as she and jaded detective Grant Anderson use her unique gifts to stop a mad man.It has a 4.7 out of 5 stars on Amazon and a 4.27 on GoodReads.
Hop on over to Smashwords and use promo code: VM89M
In Angel's Dance, Clear has to help Grant save his daughter, a ballerina in Chicago who has gone missing. With her abilities overwhelmed in such a large city, and her feelings for Grant getting in the way, can Clear pull it together and find the monster before it is too late?It has a 4.6 on Amazon and a 4.4 on Goodreads.
Hop over to Smashwords and use promo code RU75S
The great thing about this promotion is that there are no limits on the number of copies, so rack it on up!
Which books will you be getting loved ones for the holidays? Share in the comments below!
Thank you for all of your support, and I hope you enjoy!
November 25, 2015
Giving Thanks
Hello Lovely Readers,
Wishing you all a happy Thanksgiving! I really love this holiday, and every year as Christmas crowds out Thanksgiving more and more, I feel sad.
We have a few strict rules in my house about the holidays.
1. No Christmas music until after Thanksgiving.
2. We decorate for Christmas on Black Friday, and not one moment before!
3. Thanksgiving is a time for Giving Thanks and every year as we sit around the table to awesome food, we each tell what we are thankful for. This is huge.
It is important, especially in this busy world, to take a moment and focus on what we are thankful for rather than focusing solely on what we don't have.
We should really do it more than just once a year. But for some people, this is the only time they think about it, and for a lot of people Thanksgiving is just a prelude to Christmas. They are only thinking about the menu, not what the holiday is meant to represent.
I am very excited for Thanksgiving this year because we are going to a friend's house, and I am so Thankful that I don't have to do all the cooking!
What is one thing you are thankful for this year?
Also, because I am thankful for all of my readers, keep an eye out for some crazy "Black Friday" sales on my books. 75% off codes will be released on Black Friday and you don't even have to face the mad crowds to get this great deal! Get a copy for you, for a loved one, for the reader in your office. At roughly $1 a book, that is a pretty great gift for you and for them!
Wishing you all a happy Thanksgiving! I really love this holiday, and every year as Christmas crowds out Thanksgiving more and more, I feel sad.
We have a few strict rules in my house about the holidays.
1. No Christmas music until after Thanksgiving.
2. We decorate for Christmas on Black Friday, and not one moment before!
3. Thanksgiving is a time for Giving Thanks and every year as we sit around the table to awesome food, we each tell what we are thankful for. This is huge.
It is important, especially in this busy world, to take a moment and focus on what we are thankful for rather than focusing solely on what we don't have.
We should really do it more than just once a year. But for some people, this is the only time they think about it, and for a lot of people Thanksgiving is just a prelude to Christmas. They are only thinking about the menu, not what the holiday is meant to represent.
I am very excited for Thanksgiving this year because we are going to a friend's house, and I am so Thankful that I don't have to do all the cooking!
What is one thing you are thankful for this year?
Also, because I am thankful for all of my readers, keep an eye out for some crazy "Black Friday" sales on my books. 75% off codes will be released on Black Friday and you don't even have to face the mad crowds to get this great deal! Get a copy for you, for a loved one, for the reader in your office. At roughly $1 a book, that is a pretty great gift for you and for them!
November 23, 2015
How to Color Outside the Lines
Hello my Lovelies,
I have been struggling with some things lately, and (as I am so apt to do) I have been analyzing why. We are all on this search for happiness, and it seems like I am not the only one having a hard time with the elusive subject.
Now, one of the things I know is a struggle for me, is the saying "You don't find happiness, happiness is a perspective with which you look at life." Kind of like Polyanna's Glad Game. And I used to be more like that, and am working on getting back to that. It helps to a certain extent.
But one thing I have discovered is that the dreams and goals I have set for myself aren't happening the way I wanted. I can play the Glad Game all I want, but it doesn't help me figure out why my marketing isn't working.
In that vein, I have been looking at what I am doing wrong and trying to fix that. After all, I don't have a lot of money to throw at marketing. I can't be glad that I got a few sales out of $100 of marketing and call it good.
One of the things I keep seeing in marketing is to "think outside the box." but I don't really know what that means. (Because obviously, it means doing something different, but what might that be?)
I've been doing all the other marketing tips, blogging, writing, sales, promotions, advertising, etc. I have tried to think outside the box when doing these things so it is not just "Read my book" I have tried to use attention grabbing lines, etc.
But as a child, I liked to color inside the lines. I found intense comfort in it. I succeeded in school because I knew what was expected. When I did what was expected, I got XYZ results. At all my jobs in life, I succeeded by coloring inside the lines. Knowing what was expected, following the path, and getting the right results.
Sales and marketing don't work that way. One of the most frustrating parts of working at my last job is that I did everything that I was told, but still wasn't seeing results. No one could tell me why. Everyone said I was one of the best employees. Everyone said my pitch was great. But the results were not what I wanted. I was miserable because of that.
Same with my book marketing. I am following all the rules, but not seeing results. I need to push outside my comfort zone. I need to start thinking outside the box. I need to start coloring outside the lines. That is probably the scariest thing in the world for me. It is something I have always wanted to do, but the fear of not knowing how is overwhelming. The security of the lines is so tempting.
How do you color outside the lines in your own life? Any tips to help me get going?
Also, quick announcement. I know that doing a Black Friday Sale is hardly coloring outside the lines, but as I have never done one before, it sort of is for me ;)
I will be having great deals on my books on Black Friday, so keep your eyes peeled for the promotions!
Have a fabulous Monday and until next time,
Keep Reading!
I have been struggling with some things lately, and (as I am so apt to do) I have been analyzing why. We are all on this search for happiness, and it seems like I am not the only one having a hard time with the elusive subject.
Now, one of the things I know is a struggle for me, is the saying "You don't find happiness, happiness is a perspective with which you look at life." Kind of like Polyanna's Glad Game. And I used to be more like that, and am working on getting back to that. It helps to a certain extent.
But one thing I have discovered is that the dreams and goals I have set for myself aren't happening the way I wanted. I can play the Glad Game all I want, but it doesn't help me figure out why my marketing isn't working.
In that vein, I have been looking at what I am doing wrong and trying to fix that. After all, I don't have a lot of money to throw at marketing. I can't be glad that I got a few sales out of $100 of marketing and call it good.
One of the things I keep seeing in marketing is to "think outside the box." but I don't really know what that means. (Because obviously, it means doing something different, but what might that be?)
I've been doing all the other marketing tips, blogging, writing, sales, promotions, advertising, etc. I have tried to think outside the box when doing these things so it is not just "Read my book" I have tried to use attention grabbing lines, etc.
But as a child, I liked to color inside the lines. I found intense comfort in it. I succeeded in school because I knew what was expected. When I did what was expected, I got XYZ results. At all my jobs in life, I succeeded by coloring inside the lines. Knowing what was expected, following the path, and getting the right results.
Sales and marketing don't work that way. One of the most frustrating parts of working at my last job is that I did everything that I was told, but still wasn't seeing results. No one could tell me why. Everyone said I was one of the best employees. Everyone said my pitch was great. But the results were not what I wanted. I was miserable because of that.
Same with my book marketing. I am following all the rules, but not seeing results. I need to push outside my comfort zone. I need to start thinking outside the box. I need to start coloring outside the lines. That is probably the scariest thing in the world for me. It is something I have always wanted to do, but the fear of not knowing how is overwhelming. The security of the lines is so tempting.
How do you color outside the lines in your own life? Any tips to help me get going?
Also, quick announcement. I know that doing a Black Friday Sale is hardly coloring outside the lines, but as I have never done one before, it sort of is for me ;)
I will be having great deals on my books on Black Friday, so keep your eyes peeled for the promotions!
Have a fabulous Monday and until next time,
Keep Reading!
November 18, 2015
Dealing with the World
Hello Lovelies,
I have been having a hard time dealing with the world lately. It feels like everywhere I turn there is some incident that creates an upheaval from the seemingly unnecessary (Starbucks cups) to the truly tragic (the Paris attacks, the Mormon church's announcement on policy regarding children of same sex couples.)
When I was in middle school, I had to stop watching the news because I saw a story that emotionally traumatized me. I have tried to "be a good citizen" and stay informed off and on since then, but it gets so overwhelming. And now, with Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Google +, Youtube and all the others putting even more out there all the time, I feel like I cannot turn it off.
And social media adds a whole new edge, because you aren't just getting one perspective. You see every single persons's opinion, links to other news articles, blog posts, memes, and everything out there!
I grew up LDS, left the Mormon church for my own personal reasons, and went on to study many other religions. One thing that I have found universal in religions is the teaching of loving others. Another thing I have found almost universal is separating yourselves from others. I have noticed (because as a writer, I am prone to observing the human condition.) that any time there is an us vs them situation people tend to separate using hate.
And what does that get us? More hate. Whether the separation is racial, religious, political, national, or based on gender- people tend to use hate to keep from blurring the line.
And I don't understand that, when every religion teaches love.
But maybe every religion teaches the importance of love because it is not something that comes naturally to most humans. I know that seems contrary since we are all obsessed with it, but as I watch human behavior, even the most obvious love for a child tends to go out the window when that person takes the side of Them, our love for them gets put aside as we defend our US view.
It is easy to love those who are like you. But not so much for those who aren't.
I would challenge each of you to find your Us vs Them thing. We all have at least one. I am choosing one that is affecting my family right now.
Take some time to walk in the shoes of your Them. Don't just look at them through your lens, but try to understand their lens. See their troubles, struggles, hopes, dreams, fears. Talk with them and really listen to them. Build a relationship. Practice loving them.
Does anyone else think that we can use this to combat all the negativity? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
I have been having a hard time dealing with the world lately. It feels like everywhere I turn there is some incident that creates an upheaval from the seemingly unnecessary (Starbucks cups) to the truly tragic (the Paris attacks, the Mormon church's announcement on policy regarding children of same sex couples.)
When I was in middle school, I had to stop watching the news because I saw a story that emotionally traumatized me. I have tried to "be a good citizen" and stay informed off and on since then, but it gets so overwhelming. And now, with Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Google +, Youtube and all the others putting even more out there all the time, I feel like I cannot turn it off.
And social media adds a whole new edge, because you aren't just getting one perspective. You see every single persons's opinion, links to other news articles, blog posts, memes, and everything out there!
I grew up LDS, left the Mormon church for my own personal reasons, and went on to study many other religions. One thing that I have found universal in religions is the teaching of loving others. Another thing I have found almost universal is separating yourselves from others. I have noticed (because as a writer, I am prone to observing the human condition.) that any time there is an us vs them situation people tend to separate using hate.
And what does that get us? More hate. Whether the separation is racial, religious, political, national, or based on gender- people tend to use hate to keep from blurring the line.
And I don't understand that, when every religion teaches love.
But maybe every religion teaches the importance of love because it is not something that comes naturally to most humans. I know that seems contrary since we are all obsessed with it, but as I watch human behavior, even the most obvious love for a child tends to go out the window when that person takes the side of Them, our love for them gets put aside as we defend our US view.
It is easy to love those who are like you. But not so much for those who aren't.
I would challenge each of you to find your Us vs Them thing. We all have at least one. I am choosing one that is affecting my family right now.
Take some time to walk in the shoes of your Them. Don't just look at them through your lens, but try to understand their lens. See their troubles, struggles, hopes, dreams, fears. Talk with them and really listen to them. Build a relationship. Practice loving them.
Does anyone else think that we can use this to combat all the negativity? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
November 16, 2015
Poetry Corner: Isn't Love All in Vain
I have been hurt so bad inside,
trying to count the times I've cried.
Men, they come and men, they go
like falling rain and drifting snow.
They never give me a second look
and all my love to give, they took.
My love anew was taken away.
I wonder how long the pain will stay.
I need a love that is so near.
Someone to cherish and keep so dear.
I wonder how long my heart can bleed
to mourn the love that I need.
I cannot take much more pain,
But then isn't love all in vain?
trying to count the times I've cried.Men, they come and men, they go
like falling rain and drifting snow.
They never give me a second look
and all my love to give, they took.
My love anew was taken away.
I wonder how long the pain will stay.
I need a love that is so near.
Someone to cherish and keep so dear.
I wonder how long my heart can bleed
to mourn the love that I need.
I cannot take much more pain,
But then isn't love all in vain?
