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Once upon a time, when I felt like my life was crashing down around me, I would fall apart. I didn't know how to handle the little things in life much less the big things. It took me quite some time (years) to get to the point where I didn't crack at every roadblock. But getting there and staying there are two vastly different things. Most recently, when I was getting a bit stressed, someone reminded me to take the time to be grateful every day. I used to do that, and it did help. So a month ago, I started writing three things I was thankful for that day. And, once again, it's been a blessing. Sometimes, if it was a particularly trying day, I might write that I was thankful for the comfort of my home where I could shut out the world if I needed to. Or that someone had paid me a compliment. And, one day, when I was struggling to get anything accomplished, my end of the day list included that I had gotten my new modem set up. And it made a difference. On a day where I felt like nothing was getting done, I proved that something had gotten done. No matter how small. Being grateful for the little things makes me more appreciative of everything in my life. As crazy as it may sound, I can even be thankful I didn't break a bone when I fell. So it's a different way of looking at the times in my life that aren't the best. And I'm thankful that I was reminded to resume this habit. 
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Originally posted in Funds for Writers by C. Hope Clark
This happens at every appearance I make. Someone hears me speak or hold a conversation, then they buy my book, saying, "I don't normally read fiction, but after hearing you talk, I believe I'd like to try one of your books." We then talk about which one to start with, and a sale is made. Hopefully a fan is made as well. I already know you don't want to appear in public. Most writers don't. Frankly, I'd rather be home in my cutoff sweats and t-shirt with no makeup typing away on a new chapter. I'd rather not put my dogs in a kennel to drive a state away or pack up boxes of books. . . pondering on whether to bring 30 or 130 copies. But once I am there, I own it. I love someone coming up and saying, "I love your books." or "I've followed you for years." But it doesn't stop there. I ask if they write, or what they read, or where they are from, or what they do for a living. How often do they come to Edisto Beach (I do a lot of signings down there) or come to South Carolina. Because asking about your readers makes them love you more. Why? Because it shows that you care more about the reader than simply making a sale. People love for others to care about them. You should care about your readers. These people have offered up to you hours of their finite life, which is a phenomenal gift. A certain number of heartbeats and breaths they'll never get back, all because you were chosen to be a permanent part of their life. . . of their memories. Y'all, that's what you ought to be thinking when someone picks up your book. So, when they say they've chosen your book, especially if it's a genre they don't normally read, then feel honored and thank them from the bottom of your heart in return. I have favorite quotes for each area of my life like motivation, success, love, etc. So while I don't have an overall favorite quote that encompasses everything, I'll share the one that stays on my mind a lot. It's a reminder to me to be grateful for all that I have.  In June, I wrote a mid-year review, and now that 2017 has come to an end, it's time to write the wrap-up for the year. So, picking up where I left off, here goes!
That's it for 2017. I can't wait to see what 2018 brings!  I've been incredibly blessed this year, and we're only nearing the end of April. I know many authors are still struggling to find their way in this community, whether it's through their writing or the marketing of their books. Because of my blessings, I want to pay it forward.
Over the next month, I'm going to randomly choose authors to give something to. It might be a sale, quote graphics, a book video, or business cards. Or maybe a day's worth of shout-outs on my 5000+ Twitter page. Whatever I'll do, I want it to benefit the author and, hopefully, bring a smile. I want to let authors know that we are in this together, that if we work together as a team, everyone reaps the rewards. And so begins my journey of giving back! I'll be on the hunt this week! |
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