Can you quit your day job as a new author?

The simple answer is not yet. For me, I have to keep working my day job simply because profits from book sales have not yet replaced my regular income. I have a family to feed so the phrase starving author is not going to work for me and that is okay, I just have to do double duty.

I am enjoying the fact that I am a published author; however, it would be nice to be a career author. My literary work is copyrighted, registered with the Library of Congress, and assigned an International Standard Book Number (ISBN). I will forever have something imprinted in the world of books and that alone is satisfying. My children and their children will have something tangible that will live on long after I am gone.

Be aware, writing a story and getting it to print is only half the work. Marketing is the part that takes the most work when releasing a book. If you decide to become an author, remember to stay the course because your own thoughts can get the best of you when social media buzz isn’t as noisy as you want it to be. You will have ups and downs during this adventure but that’s apart of life. As my twin brother would say, “This will just add to your story when you make it big.”

I discovered a good practice and that is to find a way to work problems during the down times that keep myself productive. Do research, write blogs, network, read books, and write another/the next story. This way, I am always moving forward and growing as an author and businessman. Being an author means business because your story becomes your brand. When readers see the name Robert May, they know the story will be well thought out and captivate them as readers. Murder Justified is only the beginning because the Duane Cooper story continues.

Remind yourself to stay active to advance not just busy for the sake of doing something.

Also, find new environments and avenues to market your book. There are social media book clubs, websites, and local store fronts that will give you a way to place your book in the public eye; but just because they see your book, doesn’t mean readers will purchase it or even share it. This is where having a solid team can help. Your team will become your think tank and help find new ways to market and spread your story. A team is also there to keep you focused on your goal. If you do not have a team, self-discipline is key. You wrote a book and came this far, why not finish the race and keep up your good work ethic. You should be proud of what you have accomplished so far.  

I have been told I have written a fascinating story that is “big screen worthy” but I still have a day job. How is that so? Simple math: I haven’t sold enough books but mark my words, one day I will.

If you need insight, stay tuned or contact thoughtfulpages.ips@gmail.com. But if you want to contact the author of Murder Justified contact RDMayBooks@gmail.com.

Stay encouraged and keep writing.