From the Publisher, Issue #14 - June 2022

Upgrade Your Brain’s Operating System

I have a new analogy I’d like to share this month. Indulge me as I rock this newborn while her exhausted parents try to get a nap.

When you become a grandparent, the universe upgrades your operating system with a new app called “Been There Done That.”

It pulls the most obscure memories out of your brain’s deep freeze related to how you did things with your kids. You’re now able to confidently say, “Oh, yes, that’s normal. You did that.” or, “Hmm … I went through that with your sister. The urge to scream will pass. Hang in there.”

Voila! You managed to keep them alive, so now you’re an expert on all things parenting. You’re wise. Seasoned. You know things.

When we pursue a career as an indie author, we’re like new parents. We don’t know anything, and it seems as overwhelming as a 3 a.m. feeding with a screaming baby.

Luckily, this is a generous industry, with a lot of folks who have the “Been There Done That” app installed. They’re ready and willing to share their stories of what worked and what didn’t so no one has to go it alone.

You’re learning and growing. Every new thing brings more knowledge.

You’ll find a lot of that wisdom tucked into every article. Soak it up. You’ll find your brain’s operating system upgraded in no time as you too start to know things. Then you’ll be able to help another indie on their journey.

To Your Success,

Chelle

Chelle Honiker, Publisher

Indie Author Magazine

Chelle Honiker

Chelle Honiker is an advocate for the empowerment of authorpreneurs, recognizing the importance of authors taking charge of both their craft and careers. In response to this need, she has founded a media and training company dedicated to supporting these creative professionals. As the co-founder and publisher of Indie Author Magazine, IndieAuthorTraining, Indie Author Tools, and Direct2Readers.com, Chelle’s team of more than 80 writers, editors, trainers, and support staff provides resources and insights that help authors navigate the complexities of self-publishing. Her role as the programming director for Author Nation, an annual conference in Las Vegas, further exemplifies her commitment to fostering a community where authors can grow and succeed. With a career spanning over two decades in executive operations and leadership, Chelle has honed her skills in managing complex projects and delivering impactful training programs. Her experience as a speaker and TEDx Organizer has taken her to many countries, where she has shared her insights with diverse audiences.

Make an Appointment with Chelle

Start or Join a Conversation About This Article:

When Writing Means Business, Storytellers Read Indie Author Magazine

Read Indie Annie's Latest Advice:

Dear Indie Annie,

I’m still in the “side hustle” stage of my career, and I sometimes struggle with deciding whether larger costs—platform subscriptions, conference tickets, a specific editor or cover designer, ads—are a good investment or something that should wait until I’m earning more from my books. Any tips? Trying to Be a Smart Spender Dear Trying to Be a Smart Spender, Oh, darling Spender, managing your author finances is trickier than solving a Rubik’s Cube blindfolded! But

October 1, 2024 No Comments

Dear Indie Annie,

I keep hearing that I need to niche down into a genre to build a solid author brand, but I love writing multiple. Is it possible in our industry to build my brand around me and write what I want to write? Genre Wanderer Dear Genre Wanderer, My precious Wanderer, I feel your pain. Being fenced into one genre simply won’t do! That’s like being told you can only sip one type of tea for

September 1, 2024 No Comments

Dear Indie Annie,

I like to think I’ve conquered impostor syndrome, but any time I give interviews, reach out to someone with a research question, or try to set up local author events, I feel awkward and out of place. How do I confidently approach professionals outside the author community? Out of My Element Dear Out of My Element, My dear elemental friend, reaching beyond our cozy author circles can indeed feel as precarious as a hobbit venturing

August 1, 2024 No Comments

Weekly Tutorial

Sign up for our Newsletter

We’ll send you our best articles, special offers, and industry updates

INSTANT ACCESS

Upgrade Your Brain’s Operating System

Chelle Honiker

Start or Join a Conversation About This Article:

Read Indie Annie's Latest Advice:

Dear Indie Annie,

Dear Indie Annie,

Dear Indie Annie,

Follow Us

Weekly Tutorial

Sign up for our Newsletter

Would You Like a Free Issue?