What if my books take off?

Episode Description:

In this episode of "What If? For Authors," Claire Taylor explores the often-overlooked question: "What if my books do take off?" While many authors dream of their books hitting the big time, the reality of success can be disorienting, triggering, and even stressful. Claire delves into the psychological and emotional challenges that can arise when your books suddenly gain widespread attention and offers practical advice for managing the experience. Whether your books have already taken off or you’re still waiting for that moment, this episode provides valuable insights on how to prepare for success and stay grounded amidst the whirlwind.

Key Takeaways:

• The Double-Edged Sword of Success: Understanding that while having your books take off can be exciting, it can also bring unexpected challenges and stress.
• Core Fears Triggered by Success: How different Enneagram types might react to sudden success, from the fear of being seen to feeling trapped or overwhelmed.
• Maintaining Self-Worth Independently of Sales: The importance of not tying your self-worth to fluctuating book sales and strategies for staying grounded and self-assured.
• Balancing Creative Desires and Financial Success: Tips for authors who may feel trapped in writing what sells rather than what they love, and how to navigate that tension.
• Practical Preparation: Advice on setting the table for success before it happens and how to manage the realities if it’s already occurred.

Why Listen? If you’ve ever wondered what life would be like if your books became bestsellers, or if you’re already dealing with the pressures of a successful series, this episode will help you navigate the emotional and psychological terrain of author success. Claire provides actionable strategies to ensure that your well-being and creative fulfillment stay intact, even as your books soar.

Join the Conversation: Have a question or topic you’d like Claire to explore? Send an email to contact@ffs.media. Claire is always open to hearing from her listeners and offering support.

Access the transcript here.

Happy Writing!