(8 things to consider)

1.     If you started writing a novel in 1989 and today you’re only on page 9, maybe you’re not a writer.

2.     If you’ve been coming to TAN for the last three years, and you haven’t completed the first chapter of your book yet, maybe you’re not a writer.

3.     If you don’t have time to write or every time you start to write, you get a severe headache or break out in hives; maybe you’re not a writer.

4.     If you think that your writing sucks, and you’ve started writing over ten books but none of them have been completed, maybe you’re not a writer.

5.     If you finished your entire book and you think the first draft is perfect, and you don’t need to hire an editor or do any rewriting, maybe you’re not a writer.

6.     If you’ve written over two-hundred pages and you still don’t know the genre that you’re writing for, maybe you’re not a writer.

7.     If you have to ask somebody, “How do you write a book,” or “How do I know whether or not I’m a writer?” Then seriously, maybe you’re not a writer.

8.     And last, but not least, if you’ve written a 500-page book, and spent $5,000 to publish it but now you don’t have any time whatsoever to promote it, maybe you shouldn’t have become a writer.

The moral of the story is that writers find time to write, and they find pleasure in writing. They also know that regardless of how well they write, they need to work with an editor. And finally, writers take time to research their genre and make sound decisions when it comes to promoting their completed works. So are you or are you not a writer?

Every writer gets writer’s block from time to time. However, some writers never get past that first block, and unfortunately, they never finish what could be a masterpiece. If you’ve reached a slump in your writing routine, here are some proven strategies for unblocking your writer’s block.

1.      Take a break. Taking frequent breaks during your scheduled writing time will help prevent writer’s block. If you’ve been writing every day, it might be time to skip a day or two and concentrate on another area of your life.

2.      Watch television. Take thirty minutes to watch a sitcom or the news or an entire movie. Try watching something that you wouldn’t normally watch.

3.      Go for a long walk. Sometimes getting out of the house to clear your head is just what you need. There’s still no substitute for fresh air and its natural ability to rejuvenate the senses.

4.      Go shopping. This is an activity that will take your mind away from writing and help you relax as long as you don’t spend all of your money. While you’re out at the mall or wherever, listen to what people are talking about for new ideas.

5.      Skip to the next chapter. If you’re not sure how to close out the current chapter, that’s okay. You can keep the flow going by moving to the next chapter or maybe the ending if you already have it in mind.

6.      Outline each chapter. This usually helps you to stay focused on the bigger picture. But remember, you don’t always have to follow the outline as printed.

7.      Call a friend. It’s good to have a network of friends or fellow authors that you can call and share your thoughts with and toss around ideas that might stir up your creative juices.

8.      Create a new character. You might be bored with your regular characters or running out of exciting things for them to do so why not create some fresh ones and keep the storyline moving?

9.      Just get it out. Don’t worry about getting it perfect, just get it out. Sometimes your brain will shut down because you’re trying too hard to get it right.

10.  Work on another book. If you’re really stuck, try working on another book idea, write a synopsis, the back cover, or the press release. Just write something different.

11.  Read a book. This is usually the best strategy for me. Try reading a book that's totally opposite from what you’re writing or try the newspaper or magazine. You might get some inspiration from one of them.

12.  Speak it into being. Take a tape recorder and talk about your book, the characters, or what inspired you to write in the first place. The more you speak it, the more creative you become.

13.  Keep writing. My final note of advice is to just keep writing even if it has nothing to do with the current storyline you’re working on. Try writing an article about something that’s bothering you or related to the world of publishing.

I’m sure that if you think about it, you can probably come up with even more ways to unblock your writer’s block. The important thing is to recognize that you have a block and it’s time to temporarily step away from the project long enough to get the creativity flowing again. . .

You're invited to my new book release party for A Man of My Own on:

Saturday, February 4, 2012, at Books-A-Million Bookstore on Thomasville Road in Tallahassee, from 12:00 - 2:00 p.m.

There's more to having a great book signing than just setting a date and showing up. If you're signing with the Tallahassee Authors Network (or on your own) you might want to follow these rules for having a TANtastic day:

1. Wear your TAN t-shirt.

2. Be at least 15 minutes early to set-up, meet the store manager, and relax.

3. Bring at least 20 books and an Email Collection Sheet for collecting email addresses.

4. Bring enough cash for sales. Don't lose a client because you can't change a $20.

5. Make up flyers to pass out before and during your book signing event. Don't sit behind a table the whole time.

6. Inform everyone that you know (via email) and meet about the upcoming event.

7. Contact the local media, post on Facebook, and Twitter.

8. Bring something to give-away to customers like a balloon, bookmark, candy, etc.

9. Bring a friend (or group of friends) for support and/or assistance.

10. Thank the store manager for having you at the bookstore.

11. Take a picture so that the TANtastic day will live on in your memory.

That's it. If you're looking for more information regarding the writing, publishing, or marketing process, please check out my book titled, A Writer's Guide to Publishing & Marketing. Just click on the link at the top of the page to order the paperback or Kindle edition from Amazon.

Barbara Joe Williams

A Man of My Own
Book Release Party on February 4, 2012, 12:00 - 2:00 p.m.
Books-A-Million on Thomasville Road, Tallahassee, FL

If you haven’t joined a writer’s groups yet, don’t think about it anymore…just do it. For most authors who’re serious about the writing craft, a writer’s group will give you the motivation and support needed to further develop your literary skills. You’re likely to meet local authors, aspiring writers, avid readers, professional editors, seasoned photographers, and accomplished publishers willing to share their experiences with you. The benefits are endless and some of the contacts you’ll make will probably last a lifetime. Not only will you feel like you’re a part of a positive organization, but you’ll also grow as a writer if you become an active participant.

 

While getting together with other like-minded individuals, sharing information, and socializing is important, you should never lose focus of your writing goals. Make sure you maintain a balance between the group and the actual writing process. A good place to find a writing organization is online, libraries, colleges, and bookstores.

 

Never underestimate the importance of joining a writer’s group and networking with other writers. If you’re interested in improving your writing skills and want the support and accountability of other writers, check out these tips for joining a local or online writing group:

 

1.      Local vs. online group. The first step is to decide how you’d like to spend your time as part of the group. For extroverted writers, I’d suggest that you find a local group to join so that you’ll have direct interaction with members of the organization. For writers who’re more introverted, you might want to join an online group. And it might be advantageous for you to join both if you have the time and willing to make the commitment.

2.      Determine your needs. Make sure that the objective of the group meets your needs or objectives as a writer. Are you looking for a group to do critiques or simply a place to share ideas? Do you need a group that’s focused on romance, mystery, or welcome all genres? You have to determine whether or not the group is a fit for you and proceed accordingly.

3.      Making a commitment. You shouldn’t join any organization unless you’re willing to make a time commitment. If the group meets once a week, can you handle that? If not, you might be more suited for a group that meets once a month or every other month. Either way, once you join, you should be committed to the organization and at least try to attend all physical meetings.

4.      Giving and Receiving. Hopefully, you’re joining the writer’s group to contribute to the organization as well as receive valuable information and make important contacts. The group forum definitely isn’t a place for blatant publicity stunts or one-way information exchanges. Writing groups are as much about giving as getting!

5.      Formal vs. informal. Some writing groups are more formal than others and may be incorporated with officers, have strict procedures, guidelines, registration fees, and monthly dues. However, other writing groups may be very informal with an open format. But either way, the group has to have a leader who’s the contact person and guides the development of the organization.

 

When I co-founded the Tallahassee Authors Network in 2008, it was formed as a means to bring all locally published authors, aspiring writers, and avid readers together in one venue to learn from one another. It was never meant to be a formal organization, a critique group, or a publicity machine, but just a place for members to network and grow together as a unit. After years of being on the road promoting my work, attending conferences, and visiting writing groups, I felt it was time to come home and build a place where all authors (and literary lovers) could feel comfortable.

 

Since that time, we have established a strong local presence and hosted group book signings at schools, bookstores, the library, and the State Capitol. I believe that I have accomplished more as a part of a group than I could ever accomplish on my own. As a general rule, bookstores are more likely to schedule a group signing than an individual signing because it brings in more patrons. So if you’re looking for a way to improve your writing skills, need feedback as well as support, and you’re ready to commit to an organization, don’t think about it anymore…just do it.

The biggest growing trend in the publishing industry today is independent publishing (also known as self-publishing). With the latest technology on the market, many aspiring authors are finding this avenue to be the easiest way to fulfill their publishing dreams. Independent publishing means that you’re responsible for making sure that your book gets published. You’re also accountable for securing professionals to do whatever you can’t do yourself. This includes, but is not limited to the following: hiring an editor, a cover artist, a website developer, a book printer, and a distributor, as well as financing the whole venture.

            Let’s examine some of the major advantages and disadvantage of this trendy process:

1.      You’re your own boss. The greatest advantage to independent publishing is that you’re self-employed which means you make all the major decisions. But by the same token, this can be the greatest disadvantage if you’re not good at delegating or handling responsibility.

2.      You keep the rights to your book. Another advantage of independent publishing is that you don’t have to worry about signing over the publishing rights to your creation. If you sign with a traditional publisher, you may have to give up your publishing rights for a certain timeframe or be required to sign an exclusive contract.

3.      You can work full-time or part-time. Since you’re the boss, one advantage of independent publishing is that you get to set your own workdays and work hours. However, the process can be very time consuming which is a disadvantage, especially if you don’t have a professional team working with you.

4.      You have creative control over your project. As the publisher, you get to decide the font type, the title of the book, and the book cover design. Once you sign with a major publisher, you may not have any say in how the final project will appear on the bookshelves.

5.      Independent publishing takes less time to produce. If you’re the publisher, you can decide when the book will be released whether it be in one month or one year. With a major publisher, it usually takes at least one year after you sign a contract to see your book in print.

6.      You have a good business tax deduction. As an independent publisher, you must maintain a city/county business license to be legitimate. Therefore, you’re entitled to business tax deductions that you probably won’t receive as a contracted writer. With that in mind, make sure you have a separate business account and credit cards for tracking purchases.

These are just some of the advantages and disadvantages to consider before taking the plunge into the world of independent publishing. Keep in mind that writing may be your passion, but publishing is a business and you need to be prepared to handle it properly.

Barbara Joe Williams is the owner of Amani Publishing, LLC, in Tallahassee, Florida, and the author of A Writer’s Guide to Publishing & Marketing (June 1, 2010). She is also the founder of the Tallahassee Authors Network.

Contact:  850-264-3341 (cell), amanipublishing@aol.com

Word count: 516

Check out these great happenings for 2009. You’re sure to find me somewhere. Wouldn’t it be great to meet?

 

 January 11^th

Winter Briday Show, 2:00 – 5:00 p.m.

616 N. Bronough Street, Tallahassee

Contact: Karen Randolph, randolphkd@aol.com

 

January 17^th

Women in Business Expo, 9:00 – 5:00 p.m.

Jacksonville, Florida

Contact: Katina Amoah, youcan413@embarqmail.com

 

January 24^th

Local Authors Network Meeting (published & unpublished authors)

Downtown at main library, 10:00 – 12:00 p.m.

Contact: Barbara Joe, amanipublishing@aol.com

 

January 31^st

Tallahassee Fitness Fest

Leon County Civic Center, 9:00 a.m.

Contact: Lisa Williams, ldwilliams@devsource.net

 

January 31^st

Glitz, Glam & Chic!

An event for fashionably chic women, 6:00 – 10:00 p.m.

Contact: Karen Randolph, randolphkd@aol.com

 

February 1^st

African-American Read In

Wakulla County Public Library

Contact: Mr. Bossie, bossieh@earthlink.net

 

February 6 – 8^th

Life Eternal Ministries

Living Water Conference

Contact: Dr. Nella, lifeeternalmin@aol.com

 

February 7^th

Black Business Expo

Holiday Inn – Apalachee Parkway, 11:00 – 6:00 p.m.

Contact: Karen Randolph, randolphkd@aol.com

 

February 13 – 14^th

Life Eternal Ministries

How to Make a Good Thing Better Marriage Seminar

Contact: Dr. Nella, lifeeternalmin@aol.com

February 13 – 14^th

Women in Business Romance & Roses Expo

At Tallahassee Mall, 10:00 – 9:00 p.m.

Contact: Katina Amoah, youcan413@embarqmail.com

 

February 20 – 22^nd

Black Female Development Circle Conference

Florida State University Student Services Building

Contact: Sandra Miles, info@bfdcinc.org

 

February 28^th

Local African-American Authors Day Program

FREE to the public, theme is “Poetry” with open mic session

Amen-Ra’s Bookshop, 12:00 – 3:00 p.m.

Contact: Barbara Joe, amanipublishing@aol.com

 

March 21^st

Black Marriage Weekend

Holiday Inn – Apalachee Parkway, 10:00 – 5:00 p.m.

Contact: Karen Randolph, randolphkd@aol.com

 

March 28^th

Jewels & Cocktails III

A showcase of handmade jewelry & cocktail party

Contact: Karen Randolph, randolphkd@aol.com

 

April 3 – 5^th

Tallahassee Writer’s Association Conference

Holiday Inn – Graves Road

Contact: Anne Holt, ahholt@ahholt.com

 

May 2^nd

Sistahfaith Garments of Praise Conference

Tallahassee Community College

Economic & Workforce Development Center, 10:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Contact: Marilynn Griffith, marilynngriffith@gmail.com

 

June 6 – 7^th

Sisterhood Conference

Memphis, Tennessee

Contact: www.sisterhoodshowcase.com

 

June 11 – 13^th

Florida African Dance Festival

Tallahassee Community College

Lifetime Sports Complex

Contact: Jevelle Robinson, acdt93@aol.com

June 18 – 19^th

Black Writers Reunion & Conference

Las Vegas, Nevada

Contact: www.blackwriters.org

 

August 22^nd

3^rd Annual Women in Business Expo

Tallahassee Community College

Contact: Katina Amoah, youcanwomen413@embarqmail.com

  

Stay tuned for more great happenings or send me yours…

Last night, I was fortunate enough to have my first book discussion for Moving the Furniture: 52 Ways to Keep Your Marriage Fresh with a wonderful group of women. Hosted by Lisa Williams, who was also the birthday girl, we had good food, drinks, and stimulating conversation (which happens to be all of my favorite things). After a brief introduction by the host, everyone had an autographed copy of the book in their hands as we relaxed and began our discussion. We had an intellectual group of married, divorced, and single women join in the conversation as laughter flowed smoothly throughout the room. 

I enjoyed sharing with the ladies the history of Amani Publishing, talking about my previous releases, and then diving into the details surrounding the current book. I appreciated the questions and hope that I was able to inspire someone in the group to start writing as well as read the book they purchased and at least use some of the suggestions for keeping their relationships fresh. All and all, nothing compares to the bond of sistahhood. When we get together, regardless of how well we know one another, we know how to share our stories, smile, laugh, cry, and just explore a realm of emotions together. That's why I love being a part of a book discussion group whether it's my work being showcased or that of someone else because it's just about being a part of something with strong supportive women.

And last but not least, I appreciate Lisa sharing her birthday with me in a different way. I was honored to be her special guest. I assure you, it was an evening to be remembered for years to come, and I look forward to getting to know each new friend better as well as supporting their dreams whether it be writing or selling wickless candles...

Yesterday, I birthed my seventh book titled, Moving the Furniture: 52 ways to keep your marriage fresh. When I first started writing this book over a year ago, I wasn't sure if it was something that I should pursue. After all, I didn't want everyone in my business and questioning my marriage. Then, I put it on the back burner until a few months ago.  That's when a newspaper reporter from Canada called to interview me about a blog I'd written a couple of years ago right after my twenty-fifth wedding anniversary. One of the things that I mentioned in this blog was that I'd tried many ways of keeping my marriage fresh over the years but moving the furniture often was one of my trademarks. Anyway, that same week another reporter contacted me requesting an interview regarding marriage. So that got me to thinking again about my marriage handbook. To make a long story short, I pulled up the manuscript on my computer, finished it within a week, got it edited a couple of times, and then sent it to the printer. Now a new book has been birthed.

Whether you're married, engaged to be married, or thinking about getting married, this handbook should be in every sensible woman's handbag. Using practical tips, good humor, and a little bedroom wisdom, it's loaded with fifty-two ways to keep your relationship fresh for the next year.

If you're interested in purchasing a copy for yourself, please send me a message with your contact information. The book is only $10.00 with FREE shipping. At this price, you can easily add it to your Christmas list.

Happy holidays...

Welcome to the month of November.

As we get closer and closer to the end of this year, I hope that you have fulfilled some of your dreams. If you haven't, there's still some time left in the year for you to get something done.

At the end of each year, I normally write out my goals for the upcoming year and post them in my home office right above my computer. Everyday that I turn on  my computer, I glance at my goals for the year and try to do something towards accomplishing each one.

Although my top two goals (secure a major publishing contract for adult books and another contract for teen book series) haven't been fulfilled so far, I'm still working towards them. At least I have an agent who believes in me and is helping me to become a better writer and promoter in the meantime.

So I'm saying to you, it's time to evaluate where you are right now and start planning for the next year. As the saying goes, "he who fails to plan, plans to fail." Don't let that be you in the upcoming year.

As a final thought, I have to mention my upcoming book release for next month titled, Moving the Furniture: 52 Ways to Keep Your Marriage Fresh. It's taken me over a year to complete this book, not because it was difficult to write but because I'd put it aside for several months to work on other projects and had simply forgotten about it. Then a few months ago, a newspaper reporter from Canada called me asking for an interview regarding a blog I'd posted on marriage last year.  That same week, a magazine editor emailed me asking for an interview on the subject of marriage. So I figured it was time to revisit my marriage handbook and get it done even though it wasn't initially one of my goals for this year. Anyway, I'm glad it's been edited and gone to the printer. Hopefully, it'll be available for ordering directly from me on December 1, and available for ordering on January 1 from nationwide bookstores. If you'd like an autographed copy, please send me a check or money order in the mail for only $10.00 to Amani Publishing, P. O. Box 12045, Tallahassee, FL 32317.

I'd love to hear from you anytime about anything. Have a great November and email me at: amanipublishing@aol.com

It's been over five years since I first started writing and four years since I started my own publishing company. So many days I'm torn between whether or not I should be writing or working on publishing another book, or maybe doing some promoting for the books that are already on the market. Either way, I manage to stay busy from eight to two-thirty everyday. After that, my daughter gets off the bus hungry and ready to eat. So I have to push the writing, business, and promoting to the side for a few hours to concentrate on cooking and homework.

Anyway, I've been at this for some years now, and I've been wondering lately, am I learning anything? When I started out, I had a five year plan. The plan was to publish a book every year for the next five years and then reevaluate my business. Well, after self-publishing for about two years, I decided to step out and start publishing other aspiring authors. Since that time, I've published a total of twenty-one books. So it's time to stop and think for a second to see if I'm learning anything.

After a little time and consideration, I'm learning that:
1. I have to budget my time each day to accomplish anything.
2. As a stay-at-home (wife, mother, writer) whatever it's called, I need contact with real people everyday.
3. I'm not perfect, my family is not perfect, and my books are not perfect, but it's okay.
4. Friends are going to call me for crazy favors, but it's up to me to say yes or no.
5. I need daily exercise (time) because sitting in front of a computer for hours is not heathly at all.
6. I can't travel all over the world promoting my work, so I have to take advantage of local events.
7. Speaking at an event and selling books afterwards is more profitable than vending all day.
8. Reinvesting in my business is the only way to stay in business.
9. Reading books by other authors, helps me keep my creativity going.
10. Helping other aspiring writers get published, keeps me motivated to publish my own work.
11. I'm responsible for my happiness and success.
12. It's all about keeping my priorities in order.
13. There are talkers and there are doers and the more one talks, the less one does.
14. Everyone who buys my book is not going to read it, but they might pass it on to someone who will.
15. I'm thankful for everything in life, especially the small stuff.

Wow, I feel happier already. It's a good feeling to know that I am learning something...
If you'd like to comment on this post, please emal me at: amanipublishing@aol.com

October came in like a blast of wind. It reminded me of just how fast time flies. I can't believe that next month is Thanksgiving and Christmas is right around the corner and soon another year will be coming to an end. I haven't met all of my goals for this year, but I'm thankful that I have a couple of months left to get it together.

First, I'd like to welcome the newest author to sign with Amani Publishing from Wickliffe, Ohio. Her name is Alesica Smith, and she's a poetess. The title of her book is Exhale: Wordz from Tha' Soul.  Alesica is a single parent who has been writing poetry for a while. She's excited about signing with Amani Publishing and so am I. Her book is expected to be available by February 15, 2009.

The Local Authors Network is off the ground. We had our first meeting on Saturday, September 27th. We had a nice showing considering the fact that Mrs. Obama and Mrs. Biden decided to stop in town during the same time as our meeting was scheduled. I went with a book and was prepared to read to myself for two hours, but some other writers decided to join me. We had a wonderful time discussing our writing projects and aspirations. Hopefully, everyone learned something from the meeting and will return to the next one on Saturday, November 15th, at the Main Library at 10:00 AM. This time, we'll meet in Program Room A/B on the main floor to accommodate the larger crowd that we're expecting. Please visit our website at: www.localauthorsnetwork.synthasite.com

RAW Sistaz (Reading & Writing Sistaz) Bookclub is hosting an online Writer's Conference beginning on Tuesday, October 28th, and lasting until Sunday, November 2nd. I will be conducting a couple of workshops so if you don't want to miss them, please register at your earliest convenience. RAW Sistaz is the number one online African-American bookclub. They also do book reviews, marketing, and other services for published and self-published authors. For more details, please visit: www.rawsistaz.com

The Women in Business Expo (hosted by You Can Women) held in August at Tallahassee Community College was an awesome event. It was so wonderful that one of the participates decided to have one in her city of Jacksonville, Florida. The date is set for Saturday, January 17, 2009. So stay tuned for more details as they develop. I'll also be presenting a publishing workshop at this event, and I'm looking forward to seeing some local people in Jacksonville. For more details regarding this program, please contact entrepreneur: Tonya M. Moore at www.aSpaLifestyle.com

I have to say a special "thank you" to everyone emailing me to ask about when my next novel will be available titled A Man of My Own. As you may or may not know, this is the title that I signed with an agent to sell to a major publisher. Well, the traditional publishing process moves a whole lot slower than the self-publishing process so I'm patiently waiting for my big break. In the meantime, I just finished editing my next nonfiction project titled Moving the Furniture: 52 Ways to Keep Your Marriage Fresh. Hopefully, the book will be available by February 1, 2009. I'm excited about this book and praying that it will help some married couples rekindled their unions. With twenty-seven years of marriage under my belt and a degree in counseling, I'm looking forward to receiving feedback about this publication. I also have a foreword in the book from the editor, Marilynn Griffith, author of Rhythms of Grace, and many more titles. Her website is: www.MarilynnGriffith.com

The fourth annual Local African-American Authors Day program will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2009. The theme for next year is: Poetry. Each author will bring a favorite poem to share with the audience and we'll have an "Open Mic" session open to the general public. The event is always free and will be held again at Amen-Ra's Bookshop at 812 S. Macomb Street. If you're an author or aspiring author, please come out to meet other authors and our supportive community members.

Black Marriage Weekend is coming up on Friday, March 20, 2009. I'm honored to be the keynote speaker for the luncheon on Saturday, March 21. Please mark your calendars for this momentous event (if you're married and want to celebrate with us). For more details regarding the conference location and price, please contact Karen Randolph at: Randolphkd@aol.com

SistahFaith Garments of Praise Conference will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2009, at Tallahassee Community College from 10:00 - 4:00 PM. SistahFaith is a network of Christian women, ministers, and writers. Marilynn Griffith will be hosting the first conference. For more details, please visit the website at: www.SistahFaith.com
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That's it for now. Thanks for reading my message. I'd love to hear from you, please send me an email to: amanipublishing@aol.com






 

Thanks for visiting my new blog. A couple of years ago, I didn't have any idea what a blog was but I kept hearing about it. After doing some research, asking around, and reading a few blogs, I finally decided to give it a try. Now, I finally have one posted on my website and at myspace.com . This new technology never ceases to amaze me, and I'm struggling like a baby chicken to keep up. Anyway, I'm looking forward to posting here and creating another connection with my readers. Please keep stopping by...