2017 Will Find Me Taking a New Approach to an Old Dream!

With the new year right around the corner, everyone is reflecting on what they want to do differently. So many are caught up in changing the way they look and living a healthier life. I am no exception. I’m turning fifty in 2017 and you best believe that I want to be fifty and fabulous, not fifty and “she looks good for her age.” But it’s no secret how to achieve this dream. The key is the same it’s always been; improve my diet and exercise. No magic there.

One change that isn’t as simple, but quit possible is finding a new approach to my old dream of having throngs of people read my work. Years ago I had a dream of becoming a published author. At the encouragement of my best friend, I realized that dream. I wrote my first book, self published it, and it was well received. I was over the moon to see people (OK, my supportive friends and associates) lined up to purchase copies of my novel. After all these years (and book signings) I still tear up at the memory of that evening. I felt so accomplished. Shortly after that I was picked up by a small publishing company and released the follow up to my first novel (The Knife In My Back). I worked with that publisher for a little bit and and appreciate what the experience taught me.

It wasn’t long before I was picked up by another small (but much more popular) publishing company. I released another three novels with this publisher and I must give credit where credit is due, I learned so, so much about marketing. I did a lot of book events, radio shows, and book club meetings. I appreciate this publisher for teaching me how to step my marketing game way up! But then the time came for us to look at one another say “We’re cool, but it’s time to move on.”

I’m so excited about 2017! My dream to have millions read my work is still very real. I know that my purpose in life is to entertain and spread awareness through my writing. For the longest time I thought I could only accomplish that through a publisher. But not anymore. Independent authors have made great strides in the literary world, sold thousands upon thousands of books on their own. That is the new approach that I am looking forward to taking. I’m taking the lessons learned from my previous publishers, further educating myself about the publishing business, and stepping out on faith. Sink or swim, it’s up to me. And if I don’t sell millions, but touch the lives of a few, I will consider myself a success. The dream will never change, my life’s purpose remains the same, but the approach is looking quit different.

Stay tuned y’all, it’s time to try something new. And if you have a dream that hasn’t been completely fulfilled yet, maybe you should change your approach. 2017 could be your year too!

Stacey Covington-Lee

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