Back when we lived in Colorado, I was a member of the Victorian Society. Of course, attending the Time Traveler’s Ball was the perfect opportunity for me to generate some book- promo buzz.
The video isn’t perfect, but it’s a snapshot of a moment that was. It was a lovely night, and I really loved dancing. I’m the one in the green skirt.
As you think about book promotion, try to find ways to make it fun for yourself.
When promo feels like play (dancing, dressing up, sharing stories), it stops feeling like “work” and starts building genuine connections. Readers sense that joy and want in on it. Start small with one idea that sparks excitement for you personally.
Not everyone is a video person–I get that. Just think about ways you can “kill two birds with one stone.” How can you enrich your life and mention your book? Even if you only have a small group of friends and you celebrate and take pictures, that can be enough.
A candlelight dinner with cupcakes?
A fantasy themed picnic?
A weekly video in your favorite coffee shop?
A tour about town and you show us places that inspired you.
Is there something that you can be doing now to set yourself up for your launch? Be sure that’s it’s fun and tailored to you and your personality. If it drains you, stifles your creativity, or burns you out, it’s not for you.
When we shift our mindset from “selling books and work” to being okay with celebrating our journey, promo can feel a little easier.
Remember: You worked hard to be here, so why not document your hard-earned victory?
If you choose to use your social media to celebrate your books, just think about your accounts as your yard. You get the say about what happens in your yard and no one else’s opinion matters. When you do a post, you’re saying, “I matter and my journey is important.”
Here’s the mindset shift: “I have to sell books” to “I’m celebrating my hard-won story.”
Every time you do a post, video, or whatever, you’re lighting a candle for your people/tribe to find you. And here’s what high-payed consultants say: Don’t expect any results for three months. Just keep doing your thing and don’t be alarmed that you’re not getting a response (more on this insight later).
Y’all know I’m not one of these authors or agents who think you need to be on social media all the time. Our mental health is more important than promotion. You’ve just got to know what season you’re in and then release the pressure… no matter what.
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What’s one promo activity that actually felt like play instead of work for you? (Or one you’re curious to try?)
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How do you know when promo is starting to drain you vs. energize you? What’s your signal to pause and reset?
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If social media is your “yard,” what’s one boundary you’ve set lately to protect your peace while still celebrating your books?
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What’s a small “victory document” moment from your writing life that you’re proud of right now—even if no one else sees it yet?