In our hyperconnected, ping-me-now world, an author’s work is never done. You could spend 24/7 promoting your book and never check off every task.

So how do you keep your writing vital and alive while also promoting a book? Today, I’m visiting the Literary Ladies blog with a post on this topic.

Since Dream of Things reissued my memoir, Swimming with Maya: A Mother’s Story, it’s been a whirlwind.

While I haven’t found an answer to the balance question, I have stumbled upon a few strategies. Give my “top 5” a try! Even if you’re not an author, these ideas can help you balance competing demands.

Compartmentalize

I block out entire days when I do no promotional activity. To really drop into my writing, I need to focus. Facebook posting and composing email blasts create the opposite for me – a state of hyperalert multitasking that is the polar opposite of deep concentration. If writing makes me happy (or at least content), I prioritize it over marketing and platform building. It helps that my writing group meets monthly, so I have people expecting me to show up with new writing.

Set goals and deadlines

I write my goals for the month in my day planner at the beginning of each month. I now set a daily target of 300 words, a strategy I learned from members of my writing group. I don’t make my target every day, but even if I hit it several times a week, that’s good output. I make dates with myself to write, and do my best to keep them.

Don’t sweat the small stuff

I’ve learned I can’t do or be it all, so my new motto is “good enough.” Today, I’m a good enough author if I do one Facebook post or update my author page on Amazon, or respond to one reader review or email.  I’m juggling so many balls, I’m always in danger of dropping one, so I’ve learned to accept less than perfection. Aiming for the silver rather than the gold standard makes me a happier person.

Take frequent breaks

Sometimes, I just have to get out of Dodge. Whether it’s a walk in the Redwoods, a cup of tea at a favorite café, or a weekend away in a beautiful place, I take breaks from my day-to-day routine. Promoting a book takes a tremendous amount of energy, and writing at the same time burns a prodigious number of brain cells, so down time is vital.

Have fun!

I always dreamed of being a writer. When I was younger, I thought that only men who lived in Manhattan got to do that. Now I know differently. I enjoy saying, “Yes” to my dreams. Being an author – a published writer who does the necessary marketing and platform building – is a great honor. Whenever I feel overwhelmed, I remind myself of that.

Balance is elusive. Finding it while promoting your book and writing your next one is a delicate dance. Do it with happy feet!

Visit the Literary Ladies blog and comment on my guest post for a chance to win a free copy of Swimming with Maya.

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