3 Lifestyle Issues That Can Compromise Your Writer's Health and Your Bottom Line

“Health is the greatest wealth.”---Ralph Waldo Emerson

It was a Wednesday night. I had promised myself that I would retire early to catch up on some much needed rest. Faithful to my word, I did.
TV. off, lights out, thoughts silenced, all by 9ish .

But, around 2 a.m., I found my sleep interrupted as visions of future blog posts danced in my head. Is it just me, or do you find that some of your best creative ideas emerge after your head hits the pillow, not before?

Anyhow, I faded in and out of consciousness waking up multiple times before I finally had to drag myself out of bed to officially begin my day.

Truth is, for all the smart, magical, creative things we accomplish, writers are notorious for not always being the best guardians of our health.

We’re sleep deprived.  We lead sedentary lives.
We “juggle” more than a circus clown. We internalize stress.
Author Truman Capote got his daily fix through caffeine and nicotine. Hemingway was reported to be a heavy drinker.

And though many famous writers were actually discovered  after their deaths, I’m guessing you don’t want to be one of them? :-)

With this in mind, here are a few common issues and ailments that impact today’s writers, along with smart strategies to overcome them, to optimize your health in 2015.

SLEEP DEPRIVATION

Sleep needs vary; experts recommend 6 to 8 hours nightly. Though sleep deprivation may appear to be “nothing to lose sleep over,” think again. It can cause or contribute to poor concentration, diabetes, depression, weight gain and stress. Here’s a great piece by WebMD that goes into greater detail.
  http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/excessive-sleepiness-10/10-results-sleep-loss
Often it’s hard for writers to “disengage” and stop our creative process at the end of the day, but we must. (Think of it as recharging your battery).

On a personal note…I’ve found that not drinking caffeine too close to bed time, taking warm baths, and clearing the mind, can all contribute to a better night’s rest.
Some people swear by warm milk as well.

SEDENTARY HABITS

Let’s face it: one of the best things about being a writer is the ability to work from home in our jammies, and sit in a comfortable, cozy environment as we create. Unfortunately, it’s also one of the worst things for our overall health and longevity. Like it or not, we need to get up and get active to enjoy a good quality of life. Exercise is beneficial to the heart. It delivers oxygen and nutrients to the body. And a host of other positive things.
But I admit that I don't have the time or desire to join the local health club.
In fact, the last time I found myself going out and shaking it up in the gym, President Bush was in administration. I'm happy to say I found an alternative.  I'm still able to maintain a reasonable level of physical activity through dancing. That’s right. I love dance movement. I have a home library of all sorts of  videos--from belly dancing, to Richard Simmons’ “Sweatin to the oldies,” to Jane Fonda workouts.

Of course, your exercise of choice may be skating, or golf, or bowling, or jogging, or basketball. Whatever it is, indulge. Commit to stay fit.

Did you know that even chores around the house, (done properly) can help you to burn calories and stay active? Things like vacuuming the carpet, or doing gardening can surprisingly have favorable results.
It works if you work it!

TOXIC RELATIONSHIPS AND STRESS

Toxic relationships can come in many forms. A client with unrelenting demands, that refuses to pay fairly for services rendered. A combative relative who takes big stands on small issues.
A co-worker who gossips and gets on your last nerve.
“Don’t it make your brown eyes blue?”

Besides the health-related toll that these situations can potentially bring, (elevated blood pressure, a higher risk of fibroids, obesity due to emotional eating, etc.), is the havoc it wreaks with our creativity.  There’s no escaping that stress can cause writer’s block. No output means no income. No income leads to greater stress. Get where I’m going here?
The remedy? Take a chill pill. Learn and adopt the serenity prayer.
http://serenityprayerproject.com/

Here are some additional tips to consider.

• All things in moderation. Whether it's alcohol consumption, fried foods, or indulging in sweet treats.
• Visit your doctor regularly. Particularly for yearly screenings, or if you have certain risk factors.
• Keep your weight in check. Obesity can contribute to heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. 
• Yoga and meditation are said to be effective measures to combating stress.
• Prayer helps. Even the medical community has embraced its therapeutic effects.

One of the most common resolutions each year is to improve health.
It's never too late to start.
Keep these tips in mind, and keep positive thoughts. It's just what the doctor ordered!

Comments here? What's your health goal for 2015? Do share.

Note: The content provided is for informational purposes only. It is not to be substituted for medical advice or care. Consult your physician where applicable.

Additional resources:
http://www.healthywriter.com/links/

How to Increase Your Book Sales Through Libraries

Guest Post by Susan Sundwall

According to the American Library Association there are over a hundred and twenty thousand libraries in the United States.  That’s a wonderful thing for a writer to know because libraries buy books.  And with the advent of e-books most of them also purchase books in that format to loan to their patrons. In our zeal to get our name out there by way of bookstore signings, conventions, blog tours etc., we often overlook our loyal allies in the library.

When my publisher advised their writers submit book suggestions to libraries in their home and surrounding states, I was skeptical. I mean, how many book sales could that be? And how exactly did I go about contacting all those libraries? Silly me. Of course there was a way. And I’m going to tell you just how to do it and the added bonus of connecting with libraries near and far.

First you must craft a short letter about your books. Introduce yourself as the author of whatever genre you work in. Then offer a blurb about the book or books. List the ISBN numbers for your hard cover, paperback, and e-book next to your titles and mention any attributes like good reviews or niche markets. With this information the librarian will have your name and titles on hand when the time comes to order new books in all formats. Direct your inquiry to the Library Director whose name should be available on the library website. Put “book suggestion” in the subject line of your email. Some libraries have a message box on their websites. Some only have an e-mail address. Use whatever is available for that library. To search for libraries nationwide go here:

 http://librarytechnology.org/libraries/

Another way to get your name into the libraries is to offer to give a book talk. This might consist of a reading from your current work followed by a question and answer period. Work with the librarian to come up with the best program for her patrons. So far this year I have lined up three visits. In each one, after my talk, I’ll be able to sell my books. This is also a good venue for participating in a larger event, with other authors, by way of a panel. My mystery writer’s group frequently participates in events with two or more authors. Working with the library staff and promoting the event with available media brings writers together with readers in a comfortable setting that not only gives name recognition, but puts the author’s face to the books being sold.

Bear in mind that you may not hit a responsive cord with every library you contact. There are many that will only take a book suggestion from members served by their branch. But it’s also possible that libraries looking to build their e-book shelves will be delighted to hear from you. One librarian I contacted, not too far from home, replied with a very enthusiastic, “Oh, we have your book already!” What a boon for a writer to hear that!

If you’d like to find out more about how libraries acquire books and what authors can do, visit the American Library Association website at http://www.ala.org/tools/  libfactsheets/authorfaq

Writing a book, getting it published, and basking in the temporary glory selling to friends, relatives and neighbors, eventually gives way to the down and dirty business of marketing your gem. But think of those hundred and twenty thousand libraries. If you only sold to half of them you’d be doing well. When you broaden your horizons and add libraries to your list of potential readers and sales, you’ll be doing yourself, and them, a great service.

Readers
If you found today's post helpful, or have questions, please share in the comments.

BIO:
Susan is a freelance writer, blogger, speaker and mystery author. Find her latest Minnie Markwood mystery, The  Super Bar Incident, at Mainly Murder Press, Barnes & Noble, Amazon, and Google Books. Visit her blog at www.sundwallsays.blogspot.com

Telling and Selling Your Success Stories Successfully

Writers’ success stories are abundant in both online and print publications everywhere.
And for good reason.
Success stories inspire and empower us. They nudge us to reach for our dreams and ascend greater heights.

Whether they're based on “rags to riches” tales, or how-to blueprints that help us emulate others’ actions, break out of our shell, and overcome perceived or real obstacles.
They’re the ultimate win/win deal for readers and writers of all levels.

Yet with all the feel-good potential they possess, they are often overlooked as a way to establish our expertise, elevate our visibility, and enhance our bottom lines as writers.

It’s time for a paradigm shift in 2015.
Accordingly, here are a few common “roadblocks” many writers encounter in sharing their “road to success” stories. Don‘t be one of them.

ROADBLOCKS…

Many writers mistakenly equate “success” solely with making money.
They don’t recognize that success can be defined in numerous ways. Like writing a blog post that goes viral. Or winning a writers’ contest. Or landing an interview with a celebrity. Or being asked to speak at their kid’s school for career day. Here’s an example. In August of 2014, acclaimed writer, Warren Adler, author of the hit movie, “War of the Roses” contacted me (through a representative) by email to let me know he was a fan of my blog, and wanted to submit a guest post. Of course I said yes, and it went live shortly thereafter.  I was on “cloud nine” for weeks after that!

Writers are sometimes uncomfortable when it comes to “tooting their own horn.”
They think of sharing their success stories as bragging or boasting; which most of us have been taught is in poor taste or egotistical.

They don’t maintain a “success journal” or file.
Without one, it becomes difficult to chronicle our creative victories, or the various ways we’ve helped our clients to enhance their businesses. Journals and files help provide an ongoing historical account of noteworthy things accomplished, from which to later draw upon and share.

Now that we’ve addressed a few things to avoid, let’s cover the steps to telling and selling your story.

TELLING YOUR STORY

• When possible, align your story with a common challenge, problem, or situation that writers face: time management, tapping into new markets, dealing with rejection,  breaking the feast or famine cycle, social media. To get others to “invest” in your story, it needs to be relevant and relatable.
• Provide take-away value. What did you learn about yourself? How did your “success” impact your writing approach? What advice would you share so that others can have less trial and error? 
• Appeal to their emotions. Make the reader laugh, cry, or empathize and you're half way there. Remember to tap into the five senses for optimal results.
• Your story should have an identifiable beginning, middle, and end--with smooth, easy to follow transitions.

SELLING YOUR STORY

• Depending upon the subject area of your story, it can be submitted as a guest post to a blog in the writing niche. Many are now beginning to offer compensation for your efforts.
• Success stories can also be successfully submitted to anthologies for writers.
• Writersweekly.com pays $40.00 for short success stories of around 300 words. Check out their guidelines for specific details.

The next time you're searching for marketable ideas to make money, don't forget to consider your writing successes. After all, "Everybody loves a winner."  

Thoughts? Have you ever sold a success story?

Audit Report and Other Announcements...

Greetings, Readers!
Tax time is upon us.
And many of us will be immersed in fact finding, finger-nail biting, and analyzing financial transactions for 2014. A proverbial walk in the park for some, a "necessary evil" for most.

But, did you know that similar measures should be taken to assess your blogging status and the "return" on your sweat equity? That's right.

A wise man once said, "Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results."

In a "blog fog?"
I'm here to help. I offer writers and bloggers an objective evaluation of their site; identifying ways to help increase your traffic, your visibility and your bottom line.
Though I don't boast a huge readership, I have garnered some important online recognition: Top 25 Writing Blogs in 2014, The Power 100 Top Writing Blog in 2013, 60 of the Best Minds in the Blogosphere.

This has allowed me to earn a side income through ads placed at my site, to be considered a thought leader within the blogging community, and to successfully sell my books and services. And you can too.

HERE'S HOW TO KNOW WHETHER IT'S TIME FOR AN AUDIT:

• Your blog growth is stagnant.
• You receive very few comments on published posts (6 comments or less routinely).
• Your blog is not generating income (other than a few books sold).
• You're running out of ideas. Or running out of steam.
• You need help in establishing your goals for 2015.

Here's what a recent client had to say about her BLOG AUDIT:

"I hired Jennifer for a Blog Consultation. With Jennifer's help, I could see my blog more objectively. She gave me very clear and concrete ways to improve my entire site. Within hours, I felt way more confident about my online presence. She's friendly, too. Even in her emails, she provides service with a smile."

SARAH L. WEBB, M.F.A., Writer and Educator

If you're on board, let's get busy. For a limited time only, you can get in on this offer for just $29.00, instead of the regular price of $50.00.

(My competitor charges over a hundred bucks for a similar service)!

I'm happy to answer any questions prior to signing up. Shoot me an email at Gemsjen@yahoo.com.

Why not make 2015 a year to try something new and reach new heights?!

ANNOUNCEMENTS...

This just in! Pen and Prosper has been chosen for the 3rd year for an award: "Top 50 Writing Blogs for 2015." Yay! Thanks to all of you-- for your readership, comments, guest posts, social shares and general support.

Congratulations to author and poet Sirrus Poe, who has been nominated for a Pushcart Prize for his poetry.

Inkitt.com is a "dynamic community for writers to write, share, and improve their writing."

They will be sponsoring a horror contest on February 2nd. The contest is free. Theme? Horror-"You are in the darkest place in the world." See their site for more details.

WRITERS WEEKLY is seeking freelance success stories. Get paid to share your good fortune.

Guidelines found here. 

http://writersweekly.com/misc/guidelines.php

AUTHORS MARKETING PRO provides a very useful and innovative service to authors seeking to work "smarter, not harder" in identifying and marketing to their target audience. Stress less. Connect with greater success. For additional info, check out the testimonials at their site.

That sums it up for today's session. Please feel free to share any good news or announcements from your corner of the world.
Have a super Saturday!

Thoughts?

How to Avoid "Performance Anxiety" on the Virtual Stage!

"The world is a stage."---William Shakespeare

Many years ago, while watching the Tonight Show, I saw an interview aired with Michael Jackson.
Much to my surprise, he revealed a little-known fact that shocked the host and audience members across the nation.

This dynamic dancer, singer, "moon-walk" man and popular legend confessed that for decades he had suffered from stage fright.

Not long after that, in another TV chat with one of my all-time favorites, (Barbara Streisand), she discussed how she also often experienced panic attacks and stage jitters, before she sings at sold out concerts and other public forums.

Imagine that.
These incredibly talented artists with millions of fans, industry awards, and hit records under their belts have feared failure, felt uncertain, dealt with anxiety, and worried about meeting the expectations of their followers.
Sound familiar?

Though the medium may be different, the dynamics are the same for writers.
We all long for the validation and attention that being a "performing artist" affords us; whether it's through a blog post or video that goes viral, a book signing, an interview, or being recognized through a creative competition.

Still, it comes with a great deal of responsibility, angst, and pressure.
Wouldn't you agree?
I remember last year, when I received the awesome news that my site had been chosen as a "Top 25" Site for Writers. My fingers couldn't type the words fast enough, as I excitedly sent notification to friends and folks I barely knew, through an e-mail blast.

My blogging buddy Linda O responded: "Congrats. You're on the big stage now."
Then I went into panic mode.
I hadn't really thought of it that way, but it caused a sense of  hyper-awareness. And for awhile after that, I agonized over every. Single. Thing. I heavily scrutinized pieces produced, before they went public.
In my mind...the more eyes, the more expectations.

But, I've since then mellowed out. And you should too.
Accordingly, here are a few pointers to put you at greaser ease, as you ascend the ladder to success and heighten your platform.

Lights, camera, action!

Five Timely Tips to avoid performance anxiety on the "virtual stage"...

1. Make sure you rehearse.
That's right. Before sharing your "writer's voice" with the world, prepare. Formulate your thoughts on paper through an outline. Make sure it's cohesive and makes sense.  Then create a draft. Then revisit and revise. Then read it out loud.  Labor over your words so your readers won't have to.

2. Take a chill pill.
Relax. Be yourself. Know that some folks will dig you and some won't. Recognize that from time to time you may make a mistake--a spelling error, a quote that you attribute to the wrong person. Apologize. Correct it. Move on. "Lather, rinse, repeat." :-)

3. Don't forget the fun factor!
Word to the wise: you don't always have to come across as "stuffy" to show that you know your stuff! Let your hair down a little. Share a joke. Make fun of your writing failures. Break a few rules your English teacher taught you. If you're not having fun with your writing, chances are your audience won't either.

4. Honor your own truths.
For me, there's something very empowering about honoring my own truths. How about you?
Some of us struggle with how we will be perceived if we tackle a controversial issue in our writing. Like politics. Or immigration. Or religion. Or race relations. It can be tricky. Not everyone will support your position; you may even be criticized in a public forum, or lose followers. "Feel the fear and do it anyway." One thing you won't lose is your self-respect. As the good book states, "What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose his soul?"

5. Have confidence in your competence.
Even good writers are notorious for self-doubt, unrealistic demands, and constant comparisons.
Sometimes we can be our own worst enemy. Cut yourself some slack. Always strive to become better, but never forget the progress you've made, or the obstacles you've overcome.

Additionally for me, it sometimes helps to pray, listen to some classical music, and have a cup of tea or two as I create.
Rituals can sometimes provide comfort, relaxation, and order too.

Follow these five tips to enhance your career, garner "groupies" and enjoy many encore performances in times ahead.
Exit left.


Thoughts? What rituals do you have that help you to unwind and "make nice" with your muse?
Have you ever suffered from performance anxiety in your writing?

Image Credit: Henry L. Jones (King without a crown)

Are You in "Poor Form" With Editors?

Raise your hand if you've ever submitted work to an editor, and was displeased or downright shocked with the level of revisions prior to publication.
Perhaps your words were butchered more than cold cuts at your local deli counter.
Or maybe commentary was added to your piece, under your byline, that didn't feel "authentic" or reflective of your true "writer's voice."

I have.
And here's what I've discovered in the process over the years: it comes with the territory.
That's right.
In the words of a popular Xmas jingle, "You better watch out. You better not cry. You better not pout, I'm telling you why."

How you respond to the editorial process and constructive criticism can make or break your career, and shape your reputation in the literary community.
And I should know: I've seen the best and the worst in these scenarios, as a former senior editor of a regional publication, and as someone who has encountered a multitude of different experiences on the freelancing front.

Accordingly, I'd like to share a few "insider's tips" to enhance your career and your creative efforts.

HERE ARE A FEW THINGS TO CONSIDER:

• No matter how proficient you are with words, no editor wants to work with a writer who is difficult to deal with, unreliable, or demands "diva" status. If you're seeking "Red Carpet" status, you should try Hollywood.
• Be realistic about your expectations. Editors edit. That's what they do. Learn not to personalize rejection or criticism. Apply what you can...then move on.
• Editors are people too. The more you enable them to save time, money, or potential headaches, the greater the likelihood of earning "brownie points," and of working together again in the future.

With these things in mind, let's explore how to stay in editors' good graces, present a professional image, and optimize your career.

DOs and Don'ts

DO's

• Remember that "You never get a second chance to make a first impression." Start out with clean copy, a compelling headline, and a submission that adheres to the writers' guidelines of the targeted publication.
• Recognize that your piece may be "altered" for reasons that have nothing to do with the merit of your work. For instance, a shortened piece may be the result of spacial or budgetary limitations.
• Shift happens. Learn to go with the flow.
• Unless the guidelines state otherwise, provide a current Bio and a photo that you'd like to be included with your submission. If not, busy editors might have to extract what's available on line, or cut and paste from your blog or website. This takes up more time, and also may result in something being presented that does not meet with your approval.
• Have a good attitude! It goes a long way in the writer/editor relationship.

 DON'Ts

• Never engage in word wars with editors-- either in writers' forums, your blog, or social media circles. You're better than that. Remember, the career you save may be your own! Don't get me wrong; most of us have come across an editor or two that has been in "poor form" too! If this happens, mark your records and make a deliberate decision to not work together again if possible.
• Don't be a nuisance. It's okay to pose a question for clarity sake, but it's really not good to "question" an editor's decision in terms of his approach. They quite often know the "big picture" (i.e. advertisers, reading audience, etc.) better than you do. Also keep in mind that it isn't smart to constantly "follow up" for desired answers. The goal is to strive to be memorable in a good way.
• Don't take big stands on small issues. It will minimize stress for all parties involved.

Although these guidelines are provided for editors and articles, many are applicable to guest posting and blogging as well. Heed them to improve your professional image and to increase your bottom line in 2015.

Your turn.

Thoughts? Agree or disagree?

 Image: Freedigitalphotos.net

Self-Published Authors: 4 Smart Strategies to Grow Your Income and Your Business

GUEST POST BY MARCIE HILL, M.S.

I received an email from an author who has self-published over 15 books, asking me to help promote his most recent book. I asked him to send me an image of the book and a link to his website. “It’s down right now.” When I went to find it, there wasn’t a trace of a site.
I then asked him if he was on Amazon. “No. Amazon is not for me.”
So, how do you sell your books? “At book events, speaking appearances, my email list and cold calls.”

While these are good strategies for selling books, they require a great amount of time and effort. He could have earned more money in a shorter period of time by working smarter, not harder.

To avoid watching your time and money go down the drain – literally and figuratively like this author did, following are four smart strategies to go from pittance to profitable.

1. Website
All authors should have an online home - a website or blog - where people can find you. It doesn’t matter if you’re using free tools like WordPress, Tumblr or Weebly, as long as you have an online presence that you own and manage.
Without this home, you are missing out on opportunities to sell books; to connect with people who are interested in hiring or partnering with you; and to showcase your published works, media appearances and other accomplishments.

Smart strategies to grow your income with a website:
Set up your site to include four pages: home, about, products and contact. On your product page, include your books and big orange “Buy Now” buttons for each book. Make sure you have PayPal or another means to receive payments. Try to link to your product page on each page of your site and make it easy for people to contact you with questions.

2. Amazon
When you tell people you are an author, they are going to ask you three things:What’s the title of your book? Where can it be found? Is it on Amazon?
Being found on Amazon makes you a “real” author even if you only publish electronically. It also offers three huge benefits to self-published authors: a reputation as a book seller and distributor; billions of global buyers that you would never reach on your own, not even with a website; and an active and engaged online community through their commenting and rating systems.

Smart strategies to grow your income with Amazon:
Publish a quality eBook to Kindle, even if it’s just a chapter, and sell it for $1.99.  This allows you to start building your credibility as a published author; make money to invest in book projects; and possibly get feedback to help make the final version the masterpiece you want it to be.
Here’s the caveat of using Amazon. You cannot get the names and email addresses of the people who purchase your book, which limits your ability to sell to them in the future. You can get around this by adding links to your site in your eBook; by encouraging readers to sign up for notification of the final release; and by asking them to submit ideas on different aspects of the story or book.

3. Social Media
Social media is a great way to drive people to your product page to buy your book and for promoting your books. While it is not advised to sell directly on the sites, you can sell through conversations, education and relationships.

Smart strategies to grow your income using social media:
You can buy ads; establish relationships with people who will become your evangelists and spread the word about your books; and build relationships with influencers who can put you in front of their audience.

4. Selling on your own
You are the primary salesperson of your book - period. Here’s the problem with that. Many authors are writers and introverts, not marketing or sales people, and prefer to do things that are comfortable for them. Selling is not high on that list.

Smart strategies to grow your income through selling on your own:
Get from behind your computer, leave your house and show your book to everyone you encounter. Explain the value your book provides. This will boost your confidence, sales skills and bottom line.
Studies show that most published authors, even traditionally published authors, sell less than 300 books. This does not have to be you. By utilizing the four strategies mentioned above, you can grow your book sales and bottom line.  Go from pittance to profitable by working smarter, not harder.

BIO:

Marcie Hill is a freelance writer, blogger and author of 62 Blog Posts to Overcome Blogger’s Block who loves technology, roller skating and photography. Find more about her and her written successes at Marcie Writes.

How Working a Few Hours During the Holiday Can Pay for Next Year's Vacation!

For some it seems sacrilegious.
Working and writing during the holidays screams misplaced priorities, disregard for tradition, family and friends, and even the true meaning for the season. For some.

I get that. But, get this. Respectfully.
There's no better way to knock out year-long debt, not to mention the bills accumulated from playing "Santa Claus" to the ones we love.

A few strategically planned projects and the right connections can end the year on a high note that even an opera singer would envy.

Sure, I agree that "money can't buy happiness." But, I promise you this: it can make a pretty good down payment on it.
Hello? :-)

Here's a case in point. From Thanksgiving to New Years, I made it a point to keep the "virtual doors" to my business open.
Though an over-indulgence in holiday music,  decadent desserts, and a little "bubbly," kept me in the spirit, I didn't totally abandon my need to stay on my "financial feet" long-term and to think strategically about 2015.

HERE'S WHAT I DID TO PAVE THE WAY FOR A PROFITABLE NEW YEAR:

• I read my emails periodically to check in with clients, in case my services were needed.    
• I briefly touched base with former clients via email "pitches" to find out if there was a possibility for potential projects in 2015.
• I took a blog break to devote more time to paying projects and to do a year-end analysis of where I was vs. where I wanted to be.
• I sent gifts to my most valued clients, to show appreciation, and to "woo" them for next year.
• I visited other blogs to evaluate what others had to offer, got a few creative ideas, and even signed up for some new ones.   

HERE'S HOW MY EFFORTS "PAID OFF":

• One former client re-hired me to "ghost write" a book, negotiated a 6-month contract, and sent a deposit to begin.
• A new client, who is one of my blog readers, (Wall Street Executive) reached out to me for assistance with his blog. What started out as a general question posed via blog comments, turned into a phone consult and content strategy session. He was great to work with, paid for the entire project within 48 hours of being invoiced, and hopefully will remain on my roster.
• I wrote and sold a 600 word "how to" article to Writers Weekly; it paid 60 dollars on acceptance.
• A writer/poet signed up for me to update his blog content for 90 days. The work begins in January.

HERE ARE A FEW THINGS TO CONSIDER:

• Balance is key. Though I worked over the holidays, I didn't over do it. I still managed to spend time with family and friends. I babysat for relatives. I contributed to the festivities by baking my famous ham, pot roast, and candied yams. I opted NOT to try the turkey and dressing again this soon.
•  I attended parties and holiday gatherings as desired. And you should too.
• It's okay to sometimes mix business with pleasure. Actually holiday shin-digs can present opportunities to meet new friends and potential clients. Mention what you do if it is appropriate and applicable.
• Kick back, but don't disconnect completely. 
• Sometimes the end of year is when businesses and non-profit organizations plan their budgets and goals for the following year. Keeping the lines of communication open and being "creative" can mean that you and your business will be factored into that equation.
• If you'll be taking a blog break anyway, why not spend some of that time building your business? 

These practices and principles can make all the difference between having a "stay-cation" at home and perhaps taking the kids to Disneyland next year. It's time for a paradigm shift.

 Unless you are religiously and/or morally opposed to working over the holidays, I highly recommend it.

After all, there's great truth to the expression...

"You snooze, you lose!"

Thoughts? Agree or disagree?

Thanks for joining me in this new year!