Dream Big & Read Often -- Sylvia Day at UtopYA

UtopYA and its awesomeness will be a common theme on my blog in the coming weeks, maybe months. I'm still on a high, and I want to share as much as I can about the event.

There were two amazing keynote speakers. I'm embarrassed to admit I wasn't familiar with either author, but both reignited my passion for writing with their inspiring words. First up was Sylvia Day. Her speech was focused on the business side of writing. 

Let's face it... indie writers are entrepreneurs. We run a small business where we are in charge of everything from research and development to marketing to taxes to production.

Some highlights of her advice:

Don't Say No Because You are Afraid
She mentioned being afraid of public speaking--she rocks, so I'm not sure why--but does it anyway. In addition, she said her career was built on the lessons she learned from failing.

Don't be Afraid to Say No
She's one of the highest paid authors in publishing today, and this resulted as much from the contracts she rejected as the ones she accepted.

Don't Make Decisions to Seek Validation
Nobody can validate you. You have to be believe in yourself and not be afraid to fail (see above). 

Do Your Research
Not knowing your options is unacceptable. Ask anyone and everyone until you know what you need to know. 

Write the Best Book You Can
Then, let it go. Never let a deadline (whether self-imposed or not) dictate the quality of your book. 

Dream Big & Read Often
Read everything, across genres.

As a hybrid author, she was so respectful of indie publishing. At the end of the day, even traditionally published authors are responsible for their business. She really inspired me to take responsibility for my business and my brand. 

After all, if I don't, who will? 

Her speech was just another example of why I adore the writing community. We are all willing to share and see others succeed. I feel blessed to be a part of it.

Find out more about Sylvia Day on her website, Twitter and Facebook.

*****

Wednesday -- time for my A Round of Words in 80 Days (ROW80) update. We are two days into Round 3, and I'm off to a slow start. Basically, I've spent two days catching up on being gone for almost three weeks. Needed to be done, and it's cleared the way for a much better check in on Sunday. See you then!