Secrets to Self-Publishing Success

Napoleon Hill wrote his infamous book, Think and Grow Rich in 1937. Ever since, readers have continued to pursue the knowledge within its pages. Standing the test of time Think and Grow Rich captures the knowledge of over 500 people, who have become some of the most successful in America’s history. Focusing on the philosophy of Andrew Carnegie, this book contains truths and business secrets still relevant today despite being written over seventy years ago. These secrets to success are just as relevant to authors as they are entrepreneurs.

Many authors equate success in terms of dollars. In today’s market especially, authors are claiming to make four, five, even six figures a month! While these claims often go unsubstantiated, authors still aim for incomes well above the average. All reputable data sources to date show self-published authors on average making between $1,000 and $5,000 a year!  So, how then can authors expect to make this median income or higher? The philosophy of Andrew Carnegie not only holds the key to success, but also remains easy to understand and execute.

Andrew Carnegie’s philosophy is not unique, but its simplicity can be life changing. Summed up in a single sentence Carnegie’s message is this, believe your goals will come true and they will. While this may sound like wishful thinking, Think and Grow Rich outlines a more in-depth process for attaining ones goals. What’s important to remember though is the core of Carnegie’s philosophy. Without first believing in your goals, without refusing to doubt, there will never be success. No matter the goal, success can only be achieved through channeling your every effort toward success.

How does this translate to authors? Well, the process of Andrew Carnegie is very specific. Unlike other self help books, Think and Grow Rich outlines the following path to success:

1. Fix in your mind the exact amount of money you desire. It is not sufficient merely to say “I want plenty of money.” Be definite as to the amount.
2. Determine exactly what you intend to give in return for the money you desire. (There is no such reality as “something for nothing.)
3. Establish a definite date when you intend to possess the money you desire.
4. Create a definite plan for carrying out your desire, and begin at once, whether you are ready or not, to put this plan into action.
5. Write out a clear, concise statement of the amount of money you intend to acquire, name the time limit for its acquisition, state what you intend to give in return for the money, and describe clearly the plan through which you intend to accumulate it.
6. Read your written statement aloud, twice daily, once just before retiring at night, and once after arising in the morning.

These are the steps to attaining your goals no matter how sophisticated they might be. Putting the following philosophy into practice will not always be easy, but the pay off is seen in achieving whatever goal you work toward. For authors Lot’s Cave believes this same process will not only work, but stand the test of any eBook market. As a company we’re dedicated to helping our authors attain their goals, and Lot’s Cave welcomes feedback on their achievements, struggles, and long term goals as authors. Lot’s Cave hopes all authors no matter how small or large the goal, will adopt a similar version of Andrew Carnegie’s philosophy.

1. Determine both a long term goal and a yearly short term goal in exact income levels and dollar amounts.
2. Decide how many eBooks you wish to produce per month(s) and what subject matter these titles will share in common.
3. Establish a stated and exact completion date for your goal.
4. Start writing while your goals are fresh and in your mind. Don’t wait for the perfect time! Now is when action counts… not tomorrow as tomorrow never comes.
5. Put all your effort into attaining your goal. Do not stray from the path. Never let doubt set into your thoughts.
6. Remember and state your goal every day before working. Feel inspired and reaffirm your long term goal until you achieve it.

Authors that put this philosophy into practice will notice the process works. No longer will authors face unattainable and unrealistic goals. All authors really struggle against is doubt, lack of effort, and managing to put pen to paper. For those who haven’t already read Think and Grow Rich the book is certainly worth the time, and it’s available free (as it is in public domain). Any author wishing to achieve their goals should give their prior efforts thought, and focus on the future. Most importantly though, Lot’s Cave invites authors to use every resource available to them– including us!