Can Authors Take Time Off?

This seems like the kind of career that would allow for a little time away. Wouldn't it be great to just throw the family into the RV and disappear for spring break, or put the pony on the boat and head out to sea. And really, would it matter if you leave the laptop and smartphone behind.

Today's market doesn't allow it. Because there are such things as laptops and smartphones, there's no excuse to ignore your fans and followers for an entire week. I hope your career hits the big-time, if it hasn't already. Then perhaps one week all you're able to post is a tweet that says, “Just getting in from Belize. Wonderful trip!” When you become that best selling jet setter, don't forget to send a message out to the readers who got you there.

The experts agree that it's vital to be consistent in blogging, podcasting, video production and social networking. That means once you get rolling with each of these, there's no stopping for breaks. The impression is that you'll be forgotten during the time you're away. There are so many other things readily available on the web for someone between social networks, podcasts, videos and music. You have to be present to stay in the forefront.

Author mentors and advisers suggest making a schedule. This can stretch into a monthly scope that includes video production or podcasts. Then your weekly plan will show blog posts and facebook additions as well as the number of tweets and instagram shots you're good for per day.

Podcasting and video making is still on the horizon for me. There's enough to keep up with between the day job and working to make the transition to full-time indie author. If you follow this blog, you know that I only write one new post a week. My favorite social network is twitter, though it varies how often I get to log in and read tweets from those I follow. I like to click on the Amazon sale pages for books authors are promoting and read a sample. If I like the writing, I'll retweet the promo. Now I have to make time to finish these books and do some Goodreads reviews too. Scheduling will prove to be the only way to stay on top of all of it.

Lately I'm caught up in preparations for the release of the first episode in the Eusta Diddoo – Runaway Pony series. My last post discusses some of the pre-launch strategies for releasing a book. I have yet to do any research on opportunities for interviews. The Alliance of Independent Authors offer guest posting spots to its members. You can reach their site by clicking on the badge to the right. I have to find lot more spots to make a blog tour. That's what I'll be doing with my day off.

For this author the idea taking time away is out of the question. Although it would be nice to lie on a southern beach during spring break. The only way I can entertain such fantasies now is to write about them.

Thanks for stopping in
- Jonra Springs