Saturday Star

Don’t just dream of reaching people – get published

-

the wisdom of the ages. Each one of us reaches a stage where we answer the inner call. Women’s wisdom is the foundation­al structure of morality in society.

There is a time to create children and a time to shape them. And when the children grow up, women shape nations. The voice you hear within is not mine but your own, I just reflect it to you.

When you know what you want to say to the world I have news for you: there is no excuse or circumstan­ce that stands in the way of you telling your story. It is more accessible than ever to publish your book. It costs less than you think and you can elect to self-publish with a bit of knowhow. Today indie books meet the highest standards with a bit of homework to learn the ropes.

Start writing. With so many online courses available you are guaranteed to find informatio­n. But don’t stop there. Take the next step and publish a print or ebook according to your budget. Brand your book on social media and use your network to tell people what you are writing about. People love to support friends. As your story grows, so will your audience. Being an author is no longer reserved for the elite few. Over 4 000 books are published every day in the world.

Ten years ago I was a mom with two young boys and living a life around the needs of my home. Now I write for The Saturday Star and talk on radio. Some 10 000 people visit my blogs in a month. The only difference between you and I, is that I actually made the decision to take that first step and stuck to it until I succeeded.

The true obstacles you face are the stories you tell yourself. Author Wilbur Smith says that writing is like taking off a wet T-shirt. You are compelled to take it off. You never know whom you will touch with your writing in your blog or book. But if you don’t try your hand at it, you will never know the difference. Everyone who does what I do started where you are now. There is something inside which drives us, a little voice, an important message, or a need to help others. There is nothing you can do beforehand to get ready. After your decision is made it is just one step at a time.

Find more informatio­n about getting published as a South African author on my website. I interviewe­d publishing experts in a “masterclas­s series” for people like you to learn what is required for print and digital publishing.

Adelé Green is a transforma­tion specialist coach and author of Can You See Me Naked: Grow in a Conscious Relationsh­ip.

Post your question at www. adele-green.com/askadele/ Listen to #360Brunch at noon on Sundays on Mix93.8FM.

 ??  ??

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from South Africa