Crack the Code to Book Marketing Success: Maximize Your Focus in 2024

Writers, wondering where and how to spend your time? Let's discuss.

Photo by Ian Schneider on Unsplash

As you navigate the world of New Year's resolutions, especially in the context of writing, book marketing, and personal growth, it's essential to understand why we often fail.

According to a Forbes Health/OnePoll survey conducted in October of 2023, 61.7% of respondents say they feel pressured to set a New Year’s resolution. In addition, many respondents are planning on setting multiple goals with 66.5% stating they plan on making three or more resolutions for the year ahead. (Source: VeryWellMind.com)

Resolutions Vs. Watchwords

Here are five reasons why resolutions might not stick, and how adopting an alternative approach of choosing a watchword could be a more effective method:

1. Too Vague or Ambitious
   
   New Year's resolutions often fail because they're either too broad or overly ambitious. For instance, saying "I want to write more" is a noble goal, but it lacks specificity. Write more what, exactly?

   
   Whereas, if I know I’m focusing on the concept of writing, optimizing, and publishing two blog posts per month, I have a specific goal that is easier to achieve.

   
   As writers working with deadlines, we know the importance of clear, achievable targets. A watchword, on the other hand, is a single word or short phrase that guides your actions and decisions throughout the year.
   
   For example, choosing the word "Consistency" could remind you to maintain a regular posting schedule to continuously engage with your readership, or build those relationships.
   

2. Lack of Accountability
   Resolutions often lack a system of accountability. In the context of your professional goals, this could mean not tracking progress or not having a support system.
   
   A watchword, however, is a constant reminder of your overarching goal. It's easier to remember and can be shared with your community or team for mutual support.
   

3. Not Aligned with True Desires or Values
   Sometimes, resolutions are more about what you think you should want rather than what you truly desire. This misalignment can lead to a lack of motivation due to cognitive dissonance - the state of discomfort felt when two or more modes of thought contradict each other.
   
   A watchword is deeply personal and can be chosen based on your values and what truly matters to you, like "Growth" or "Connection," which resonates with your writing career and personal interests.
   

4. All-or-Nothing Approach
   New Year's resolutions often fail because of an all-or-nothing mindset. If you slip up once, it can feel like the whole resolution is ruined. But with a watchword, there's more flexibility.
   
   It's about guiding your overall approach to life and work, not sticking to a rigid set of rules.
   

5. Neglecting Mental Health
   It's vital to acknowledge that resolutions often ignore this aspect. They focus on external achievements without considering the internal journey.
   
   A watchword can be a kinder, more compassionate approach. It allows for self-care and acknowledges that success is not just about outward achievements but also about inner well-being.

Incorporating a watchword into your life and work could be a more flexible and meaningful approach than traditional resolutions. If this process aligns well with your values, try a watchword instead.

Plus, it's a fairly unique concept you can share on social media platforms, engaging with your audience, and potentially attracting new readers.

Photo by Prateek Katyal on Unsplash

So, What’s A Watchword, Lady?

As mentioned above, it’s a way to concentrate your efforts with a simple guiding word or concept. Incorporating a watchword into your life requires constant creativity and strategic thinking, and can significantly enhance your focus. Here's how a watchword can be a powerful tool:

1. Simplifies Decision-Making
   A watchword acts like a compass, guiding your choices and actions. When you're faced with decisions, particularly in your professional life, ask yourself how each option aligns with your watchword.
   
   For instance, if your watchword is "Innovation," this can drive you to explore new social media strategies, experiment with different content forms, or even approach writer’s block with a fresh perspective.
   

2. Increases Mindfulness and Intentionality
   By having a single, powerful word to focus on, you bring a greater level of mindfulness to your daily activities.
   
   This heightened awareness can be especially beneficial when using social media, where the landscape is ever-changing and requires constant adaptation and intentional strategy.
   

3. Enhances Motivation
   A watchword can serve as a source of inspiration and motivation. On days when you feel overwhelmed or uninspired, recalling your watchword can reignite your passion and purpose.
   
   For example, if your watchword is "Empowerment," it can remind you of your goal to empower others, connect with readers with similar interests, and even form community. Learn more here:

   Maybe you’ve never submitted your books for an award - now’s the time to do so! Learn more here:

4. Promotes Consistency
   In the world of publishing and book marketing, consistency is key. A watchword can help keep you aligned with your goals and maintain a consistent approach to your work.
   
   Whether it's posting regularly, engaging with your audience, or staying true to your brand's voice, your watchword can be a steady reminder of these commitments.
   

5. Supports Personal and Professional Growth
   A watchword can also reflect your personal growth goals. If you choose a word that challenges you, it can push you out of your comfort zone, leading to both personal and professional development.
   
   For example, choosing a word like "Courage" might encourage you to take on new challenges, such as pitching to higher-profile clients or experimenting with different content styles.

In essence, a watchword is a simple yet profound tool that can bring clarity, direction, and intentionality to both your personal life and professional endeavors. It helps you maintain focus amidst the distractions and pressures of daily life, providing a clear path towards achieving your goals and aspirations.

My Watchword Is…

My watchword for 2024 is focus, which means I’m clearing out a lot of noncommitments, scrolling, and other time spent elsewhere when I could, and prefer, to be writing.

What about you? Are you a resolutions person or a watchword fan?

***

Huge thank you to my valued clients, partners, and subscribers. I’ll continue to bring you exclusive, new content in 2024 in partnership with my wonderful advertising sponsor, Booklinker - free, universal links for all writers, and their blog is 💣.

Here is access to my entire catalog on Substack. I hope you’ll share with a writing friend.

I’ll be back on XSpaces this week - on Wednesday, January 3rd at 2 pm pst/5 pm est for #BookMarketingChat. I turn 60 on January 2. Help me celebrate: click now to set a reminder (or hear a replay)!

I’ll also be doing an entire author branding discussion with Vennie Kocsis on January 16. Click now to set a reminder or listen to the replay.

I look forward to lots of writing and marketing in this new year. Please join me! 🥳