Introduction

Welcome!

As we move into the new year, I thought I’d take this time to go over how 2021 panned out for me.

Spring/Summer 20201

I spent most of the spring rewriting Palingenesis, and the summer getting ready for its release and trying to build buzz for it. I put a ton of pressure on myself and learned a lot of what to do better next time.

First, I’d invest the time into reaching out to beta readers and book reviewers in advance, so I’d have reviews ready on launch day. I’d also have a longer preorder campaign and offer exclusive swag to entice buyers.   

Second, I’d lower my expectations. I thought I’d sell way more copies than I did, and I was depressed when I only sold a few books. I’ve since learned likes on social media rarely translate into sales and that I must market myself and my work better going forward, which means getting out of my comfort zone and over my fear of public speaking and talking on the phone.

Third, I’d use the time leading up to my book launch better. Instead of worrying about every minor detail and whether my book will sell, I’ll spend that time outlining and drafting the next one.

Fall 2021

Due to lower-than-expected book sales, I spent most of fall questioning my worth as a writer and a person. I slipped into a deep depression and for my mental health, I went on hiatus from Twitter and other social media sites and from writing.

The time away from my WIP gave me clarity and showed me that I can’t tie my self-worth and identity to writing. My hiatus also taught me that I can and should do other things than writing.

Since taking a break at the end of September, I’ve rediscovered my love of gaming, drawing, and reading manga/webcomics. This experience has taught me that I can’t give 110% 24/7 and need breaks, so from now on, I’ll take the last three months of the year off. I’ve planned my writing schedule for the next few years and have factored these hiatuses/vacations into them, so there shouldn’t be any major interruptions in book releases (knock on wood).

Winter 2021

Like many people, I packed on the pandemic pounds, so I plan to spend the rest of this winter and the coming year getting in shape and eating healthier. I’ve been on the big side since I was a kid, but these last two years I’ve done a bunch of stress eating and am now close to 300 pounds, so I need to make a course correction.

I’m also going to get a part-time to help with my bills, which will mean less time to write, so I’m pushing back the release date of Pandemonium (Phoenix Diaries #2) to 2024. I’ll keep you posted if things change.

Conclusion

While things haven’t gone as I’d expected, I’m grateful to everyone who has bought a copy of Palingenesis. I’ll implement all the lessons I’ve learned this year and try to do better next time.

I’m not going to lie. It sucks that I’m not a best-selling author, but I’ve only just begun.

 Stay safe and may you have nothing but luck, love, and success in 2022.

 Happy New Year!