When it too early to talk about success? Tales of Lunis Aquaria went on sale a little over two weeks ago and the sales have already exceeded my expectations. This might be the right time to talk about success, what it means to be successful, and to reflect on my expectations and my goals.
This draft has been sitting there for months and I thought now would be a good time to discuss success
About Success
I finished reading a short non-fiction book on how to become successful. One of my goals is to read more non-fiction and, just like many other people, I do want to become successful. It also was a free ebook as a promotion of my phone service provider. It’d be a waste to not read it.
While I was reading, I found out that this book has been a best seller, and the writers sold out many seminars and hundreds of people every year take part in their program. They seem to know their stuff. The reviews in the book and on their Facebook also confirmed that.
Soon after I started reading, I found out that this book wasn’t for me. Everything I read in there I had already read online, during my search of what I wanted to do and how to make it happen. I followed my own path towards success and it was mostly like this.
What I liked about this book is that it doesn’t tell you when you are successful, unlike many other sources that speak of success. It’s different for everyone. Having a million dollars might be success for one, while someone thinks success is sending the kids to college, worry free. Pick your own dream, mission and milestones for success. You’ll get there, but don’t be afraid to dream big. Have something you can chase after, and once you’ve done that, find something else.
Goals & Milestones
Success is often built upon goals and milestones. There’s a big difference between the two. Goals are something you have control over, while milestones are out of your hands. In my case, my goal is to have ten books published in the next five years. That’s all up to me. As an indie author, I don’t have to worry about rejection from agents and publishers. The only ones who can reject me are my readers. If I keep writing, learn more about the craft, and study the publishing process more closely, I know I can get those ten books published. It’s all hard work, no luck involved.
One of my milestones was selling ten books. I’ve already crossed that on the launch day of Tales of Lunis Aquaria, which I never expected. My second milestone was selling a book to a stranger. I crossed that one of my list as well in the first week. My influence on these milestones is limited to writing good copy and make sure I get enough eyeballs on my books. But I don’t have any influence on a reader clicking that buy button, no matter how good my copy is.
Success is still subjective, and it can be completing your goals, or achieving your milestones. Maybe a mixture of both. But be real about what you have control over. If your success is wholly dependent on others, you’ll have a hard time when you’re not achieving any of your milestones. Focusing on your goals, especially after completing one, can give you the boost you need to keep going on your path.
My Success
I’m not aiming for any of the big awards. I just hope that people will enjoy my books. If I can manage that, I’m content. The monetary side of publishing is nice and I hope that’ll make enough money to cover the expenses of more books (self publishing isn’t cheap) and some bills. It’s a definition of success that’s both based on goals and milestones. The more books I publish and focus on becoming a better publisher, the easier it’ll be to make sales.
The beginning is the hardest. I have no fanbase to speak of and my first book is a collection of short stories. It’s not something that’ll sell well without a series to back it up. That’s why I kept my expectations low. The milestones I had, were low. And all I can hope for, is that the next release will be better and people are coming back.
To every single one who has bought, shared, or commented on Tales of Lunis Aquaria, thank you. You’re not only helping me to make my dream come true, but to achieve success in life.
What do you consider success?
Tales of Lunis Aquaria is available now with all major retailers.
Summary
The balance is tipping. Something shifts in the world of Lunis Aquaria. Menacing creatures, daunting deserts, and treacherous mountains. Hardships and solace, friendships and love. Find out what went on before the world is lost in disparity and meet the heroes who will one day restore harmony.
Tales of Lunis Aquaria is a collection of nine short stories set in the fantastical world of Lunis Aquaria.
The coming of beasts ~ The sacred maiden ~ Moonflower ~ Thomas and the wolf ~ The witch from Monterra Mountain ~ Shepherd’s Stick ~ Archipelago of wonder ~ Decapod’s ire ~ Lovers across time
