Are You Committed?

Recently, I did a presentation titled “Your Book as a Business.” During the talk, I tossed out a question to the audience about what it takes to be a successful published author. Without hesitation, one brave soul said, “Commitment.” Of course!

When you’re interested in something you’ll do whatever is required. But when you’re committed to something, you’ll do whatever it takes; whatever is necessary; whatever gets you from where you are to where you want to be; whatever gets you to your BFHD (Big Fat Hairy Dream).

Your commitment to writing, finishing, publishing, marketing, selling, repurposing, and leveraging your book is really a personal journey. It’s all up to you to make it happen. Your commitment will override any excuses, road blocks, interruptions, distractions, or fears. There’s no doubt that you’ll face these challenges, but your commitment will stare them in the face and say, “Listen here, I’m a successful published author, and I’ve got work to do!” 

When you have a big vision and an unshakable commitment to it, your self-confidence increases; your boldness takes a giant leap; you toss aside the doubts and uncertainties and you walk up to opportunity, shake its hand and say, “Thank you in advance for what you’ve delivered to me. I receive!” I know that sounds simple; like some of that positive self-talk. Well, you can either cower in a darkened corner of your writing cave and think of one excuse after another for why you haven’t finished your book, or why you still have 100 copies of your published book in your basement, or why you’ve only sold 10 copies of your ebook ... or you can muster up the courage and the commitment to go at it with full force. Here are three ways to boost your commitment to your book project:

Focus. Keep your vision, dream, or goal in the forefront of your mind. If you need to physically see it, find a picture and post it in a conspicuous place. If you need a reminder, discover a motivating quote, memorize it, and meditate on it daily.

Know your WHY. Knowing why you want to accomplish something often builds your commitment. If your why is bigger than you, that should push you towards accomplishment.

Expect results. You don’t have to wait until you’ve finished your book project to see results; expect results along the way. Every accomplishment in the journey of your book project is the result of your efforts. Value each result.

If it’s self-talk you need; do it! If it’s a power team you need; build it! If it’s support you need; find it! If it’s time you need; make it! 

Commit to doing whatever it takes to make your book project a success. There’s no time to waste. 

So, what are you doing to prove your commitment to your book project?