How to Become a Bestselling Author – As a former literary agency owner (now an author coach and consultant) I know that most authors spend plenty of time writing, and thinking about How to Get a Literary Agent.
This article is about something else, and it’s arguably one of the most important things you will need to become bestselling author.
Scroll below now to find out what it is.
* * *
How to Become a Bestselling Author –
The Secret Sauce
I don’t know about your family,
but mine is crazy.
Certifiable.
None of my relatives (that I know about) are institutionalized, but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be. And the fact that I grew up with some of those people is going to help you become a bestselling author.
Here’s the thing…
In spite of the drama I was surrounded by growing up (you probably wouldn’t believe me if I told you everything), I had one thing going for me. From the moment I was conceived (yes, in the womb) I had people around me saying:
* You’re special.
* You have a big purpose.
* You can do absolutely anything.
* You’re going to be an influential leader.
I got this constant “programming” primarily from my mother. But I also heard it during sermons at the church she dragged me to every weekend. And I heard it consistently from people who attended that church. When you’re a child and people in authority who are “older and wiser” than you say those things, with conviction, again and again, you start to believe them.
At least I did.
I ate it up like an orphan
at his first Thanksgiving dinner.
More, please.
It didn’t matter that everyone’s words were based completely on potential and possibility. Blind hope or belief. Air, basically. You might even say that the people saying those things were delusional.
Except for one little detail…
Their words worked.
Why?
Words are
energy.
Words are
affirmations.
Words have
transformative
power.
That’s one of the reasons authors are drawn to write. That’s also why I’m so careful about the words I use with you. Whether you think you’re “sensitive” or not, you are.
We all
are.
So…
* * *
How to Become a Bestselling Author – Your Mindset
Here are three things you need to remember if you want to know how to become a bestselling author. These three things will sound simple, but they’re extremely difficult to consistently implement. So, don’t just nod your head and tell yourself that you already know these things. That’s not the same thing as doing them, doing them right, and doing them each moment.
1) Be careful who you allow into your space.
Be honest with yourself about any losers you’ve allowed into your life—people that are too negative, always taking more than they give (even if it’s just energetically). I’m not obligated to ANYONE in my life unless they’ve earned it. What about you? I don’t care if someone is my blood or we have history; if they don’t treat me with respect, I’m out of there. Don’t spend time with people who don’t appreciate your positive spirit.
2) Be careful who you speak with about your books.
You might be a strong person, but everyone’s creative space is fragile. When you’re creating anything in this world, you build confidence as you go. If you talk to people during that time who are negative, skeptical, or don’t know what they’re talking about, it can mess with your head. And your work can suffer.
3) Be careful with the voices in your head.
It’s equally important that you pay attention to your own inner critic and skeptic. Keep him on a short leash. You’ll never get rid of him completely, so that shouldn’t be your goal (you’ll feel like a failure every time he comes around talking trash). What you can do, however, is kick him out of the main house in your head… and move him in to the “guest house.” You know, that little property on the far side of your mental space. You’ll still see him from time to time, but only briefly.
* * *
How to Become a Bestselling Author – Conclusion
When was the last time
someone told you:
* You’re special.
* You have a big purpose.
* You can do absolutely anything.
* You are (or you’re going to be) an influential leader.
I hope it was today, or yesterday, or just a few days ago. But I also know that you’re probably surrounded by people (especially on social media) who spend way too much time being rude, nasty, or downright depressing… under the pretense of being “real.” To those people I say balance your generous portions of “truth” with a decent sized helping of good manners.
And a dash of hope.
No matter what people say, always remember that
getting published isn’t luck, it’s a decision.
If you
believe it.
Oh…
One last thing.
If you liked this article about how to become a bestselling author,
click here to read a related article I published a while ago
called Suspension of Disbelief.
And post any comments or questions
you have for me below.
I’ll respond
personally,
– Mark
* * *
* * *
MARK MALATESTA is a former literary agent turned author coach. Mark now helps authors of all genres (fiction, nonfiction, and children's books) get top literary agents, publishers, and book deals through his company 
MARK MALATESTA is a former literary agent turned author coach. Mark now helps authors of all genres (fiction, nonfiction, and children's books) get top literary agents, publishers, and book deals through his company 
Wow! It was a short but a meaty article. We may have heard or even read all what you wrote above, Mark. However, you explain it in a whole different way. I like when you said “Don’t spend time with people who don’t appreciate your positive spirit.”
That is true: first, we must appreciate ourselves, so that we can give a positive place to our work and others will be oblige to respect and appreciate it. Otherwise, they’ll be vanished.
It all begins inside…
Thanks a lot,
Thank you Sara, you just made my morning. 🙂
Have a good Friday!
– Mark
Mark Malatesta
The Bestselling Author
http://thebestsellingauthor.com
Literary Agent Undercover
https://literary-agents.com
Hi, Mark, no one ever told me I was special or any of those things. I have to do all of it on my own, without support or feedback. I am not on social media because there is no reality to it. To this day not a soul has read my book [ except maybe the first few pages to an agent]. I am rewriting it due to a mistake and it’s hard to find the inspiration. But I am not giving up. If only to prove my story is worth the read.
I happen to love my book and hope others will too.
Hi Karin, for what it’s worth… you are special… we all are… and there are a lot of people who’ve made it… without much… or any… support… so keep believing in yourself… and your work… and do what you can to get your work out there.
Have a good Friday!
– Mark
Mark Malatesta
The Bestselling Author
http://thebestsellingauthor.com
Literary Agent Undercover
https://literary-agents.com
Hello my dearest Mark,
Whether or not I respond to your ever inspiring articles I am no less motivated than I was the day we linked up. I sincerely feel that I am equipped with all the points you highlight in this week’s newsletter and for this I applaud myself.(-:) That being said I give myself until December 31 to have acquired an agent. Tell Ingrid to get ready because I’m moving on up!
Love to you both,
Lola
Hi Lola, I love it… and if everyone responded to every comment I wouldn’t be able to read them all… so you stopping by once in a while is just fine. I know you’re thinking of us… and we’re thinking of you… and that’s all that matters. Thank you for your generous spirit and do keep doing what you’re doing so you can share some good news with us sooner rather than later.
We believe in you, and have a good Friday!
– Mark (and Ingrid)
Mark Malatesta
The Bestselling Author
http://thebestsellingauthor.com
Literary Agent Undercover
https://literary-agents.com
Hey, Mark! Sometimes it’s hard to find people who will speak encouragement to us because we’re writers and somehow that makes us and our dreams a little bit weird. 🙂 But when I stepped into the writing world and found others like me, I was surrounded by encouragement from author/bloggers, friends in online critique groups, writers’ guilds, etc. Their encouragement means so much because they understand–my struggles are their struggles, too. I’m so grateful for them (you’re included)!
Hi Karen, thank you… and yes… that’s exactly why writers need to stick together.
Here’s to recognizing and embracing our wonderful weirdness. 🙂
Have a good Friday!
– Mark
Mark Malatesta
The Bestselling Author
http://thebestsellingauthor.com
Literary Agent Undercover
https://literary-agents.com
Mark,
Thank you so much for this article. I’m about to start on a major revision of my novel, and I didn’t realize how much I needed to hear this to get going. Here’s to hoping your words take me to publication.
-Vivian
Thank you Vivian, and I’m glad
the article was helpful. 🙂
Have a good Friday!
– Mark
Mark Malatesta
The Bestselling Author
http://thebestsellingauthor.com
Literary Agent Undercover
https://literary-agents.com
As always, I love your article. Just one question though… Is this just as true for non-fiction authors? It seems all the articles, posts, webinars, etc. i see, are slanted toward the fiction author. i am finishing up on, what Ihope will be, my book, Is Headache, Migraine or Tinnitus Messing With Your Head? If I can put aside enough money, I’d like to take advantage.e of your services. But, I’d like to know whether you have as much experience in the non-fiction world as with fiction.
Mark is quiet an extraordinary coach for writers and authors of any genre. I say this from the perspective of a personal development/self help author, with previous experience as a publicist and personal manager in the entertainment industry. I am a coach myself. It is not easy to find people who are authentic, caring and good at what they do offering valuable knowledge free on a website and on radio. I am near finished with my book and my first stop is “Mark.” I value his opinion and experience
Thank you Deborah, I can’t tell you enough what a positive impact your kind words had on me this morning when I read them. I was having a good morning, but now I’m having a great one. It’s easy for all of us to temporarily somewhat forget why we do what we do… or at least that memory gets muted. And then, suddenly, someone shares something like your beautiful words… and we remember. In vivid color. Your kindness is greatly appreciated… and a reminder of just how powerful writers (and words) can be.
Have a good Friday!
– Mark
Mark Malatesta
The Bestselling Author
http://thebestsellingauthor.com
Literary Agent Undercover
https://literary-agents.com
Hi Ron, thank you… and I work with authors of all genres, ages, and stages of development… so yes… whenever possible… the advice here is for everyone… although I do sometimes post genre-specific articles because that can also be helpful. Click here to see some of the nonfiction authors I’ve helped: http://markmalatesta.com/mark-malatesta-reviews/.
If you want help with anything else, you can post more questions for me online here: http://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/. And, if/when you’re ready, you can register for an introductory coaching call with me here: http://thebestsellingauthor.com/coaching/intro-call/.
Either way, I’m looking forward to learning more about you and your work.
Have a good Friday!
– Mark
Mark Malatesta
The Bestselling Author
http://thebestsellingauthor.com
Literary Agent Undercover
https://literary-agents.com
Needed this today, thanks
🙂
Have a good Friday!
– Mark
Mark Malatesta
The Bestselling Author
http://thebestsellingauthor.com
Literary Agent Undercover
https://literary-agents.com
I absolutely agree. To be a successful writer – or, indeed, anything creative – you have to believe in yourself. Otherwise it’s a self obsessed hobby. Which is exactly why we should all choose the readers of our novels – debut or otherwise – with great care.
Prior to writing, I was a known director of photography, here and in Hollywood. The one thing I learned, quite early on, was a) to like my own lighting and b) only accept criticism when a better alternative was offered.
Good article, Mark
Thank you Chris, much appreciated… and I know your comment will help other authors reading this.
Have a good Friday!
– Mark
Mark Malatesta
The Bestselling Author
http://thebestsellingauthor.com
Literary Agent Undercover
https://literary-agents.com
Thank you for showing your genuine heart for your craft and helping the rest of us keep our sanity. I’m nearing the end to my edits for my manuscript, I’ve signed up for publication through a top notch self-publisher, and I weep with those who shed tears over what I’ve been writing about caregiving. Fortunately I have those in my “circle” who are very supportive. However, I still can be my worst critic. I’m entering final edit stage, and had a moment of “this is junk–start over.” Lies. Defeated
Thank you Cheryl, and stay positive… sounds like the world really needs you and your work!
Have a good Friday. 🙂
– Mark
Mark Malatesta
The Bestselling Author
http://thebestsellingauthor.com
Literary Agent Undercover
https://literary-agents.com
I have basically followed this advice for eighteen years and I am still waiting for the BIG BREAK! To that end I have commissioned a graphic novel based on my first book and it will be done this month! Woo Hoo! However it was a very expensive way to go. I hope that this visual medium will bring recognition to the 26 novels that sit on my computer waiting. I do my best to stay positive, but sometimes that just isn’t enough. You need luck or a famous friend.
READ Element 245!
Hi Paul, I admire your persistence… and thank you for sharing because it will inspire the other authors reading this. Much appreciated, and keep doing what you’re doing.
Have a good Friday!
– Mark
Mark Malatesta
The Bestselling Author
http://thebestsellingauthor.com
Literary Agent Undercover
https://literary-agents.com
Good article. However there was one thing missing. If you truly have the strength of character to banish any and all nay sayers from your life, many if not most of those animals will label you an Asshole, or worse. And negative people talk, to everyone who will listen, to those who don’t or won’t, to a spider on the wall.
I agree with the concept, but be strong when the backlash comes, for it surely will. Also, you must not mind being alone, for you surely will be, until you find better people.
Hi Rob, thank you… I love it… that’s true… and it’s completely okay. Hmm. I better write another article about that. 🙂
Have a good Friday!
– Mark
Mark Malatesta
The Bestselling Author
http://thebestsellingauthor.com
Literary Agent Undercover
https://literary-agents.com
Mark – This is good advice for life.
🙂
Happy Friday, and thank you!
– Mark
Mark Malatesta
The Bestselling Author
http://thebestsellingauthor.com
Literary Agent Undercover
https://literary-agents.com
Awesome article!! I did not have the type of people around me growing up that instilled these truths into me. I have had to play catch-up my whole adult life. Though I’ve been writing for 25 years, I am just starting to try get my creations out there. If all children knew these things, the world would be a much better place. Here’s hoping that changes.
Thank you Laura, you just made my morning… and keep believing… that’s half of it!
Have a good Friday!
– Mark
Mark Malatesta
The Bestselling Author
http://thebestsellingauthor.com
Literary Agent Undercover
https://literary-agents.com
Timely and a great reminder of an article because many aspiring authors (me included) sometimes forget that the quality of external voices is as important as the quality of our inner voices to help us achieve our literary goals.
Hi Saw Lian, well said… well said. Wishing you happiness, good health, and prosperity in the new year. Warm wishes and happy holidays. Mark
Hi Mark,
Thanks again for your really positive input – It’s good to be reminded how important it is to keep all the negative stuff in the trash where it belongs- as well as the practical advice on how to control it!
I also enjoyed and benefitted from listening to you and Ingrid doing your live Q&A show. Thanks again for the inspiration. Look forward to more in the new year! I hope you both get to enjoy a very happy holiday. Selwyn
Hi Selwyn, you’re welcome. Every year that goes by I become more aware of the importance of having the right mindset… and the right boundaries with people. It creates a lot more success and a more enjoyable lifestyle. Here’s to happiness and prosperity in the new year. Warm wishes and happy holidays! Mark
Hi Mark!
Believe it or not. This is the best little talk we’ve had all year.
Keep up the encouragement. You’re a born winner!
Juanita
Hi Juanita, thank you for letting me know. You never know what, or when, something is going to resonate with someone. So I keep putting it all out there. 😉 Warm wishes and happy holidays. And thank you for the love. Keep being you. And don’t ever stop believing in you or your work! Mark
Wonderful article. It helped me realized that I have to stop and think what messages I let penetrate my inner sensitive side.
Hi Jen, yes… you absolutely better be kind to yourself. You deserve it, and no one else is ever going to take care of you that way that you can. So do something extra special for yourself this holiday weekend, that you wouldn’t normally do. And thanks for the typo you emailed me about. I fixed it! Mark
Great three points on a person’s mindset. I use a version of that when I counsel young adults. Glad to see how it crosses over into the writing/publishing business to help keep me centered. Intuitively I was holding to those things, but it is nice to be validated.
Hi Lindsey, amazing how often something that works in one part of life works in another… isn’t it? 🙂 Thanks for posting and Happy Holidays! Mark
Reading this article made me even more excited about our scheduled call next week. I just ended my relationship with my agent who was always negative, discouraging and deflating even though, as I later found out, she never sent my book proposal or sample chapters to a single editor. I wondered why I was feeling depressed and uninspired when writing has always been my favorite thing in the world. Now I realize I’d let too much negativity into my life and my head. Looking forward to a fresh start!
Hi Sharon, glad to hear it (not you ending it with your agent, of course, but you looking forward to our call next week). Here’s to positivity and intelligent action combined to create great results. Warm wishes and happy holidays! Mark
I feel like rising up and giving you a standing ovation for your suspension of disbelief post. Bravo, Mark! I wish I could have witnessed you on that panel. Amazing– typical Mark. I also love your mindset, three tips. I try to implement these myself, but it’s not always easy.
I tried to comment on the Suspension of Belief post, too, but it kept telling me that two + 4 wasn’t 6. Go figure. Anyway, Happy Holidays to you and Ingrid!
Thank you Sue. It was really shocking, being there. I couldn’t believe what I was hearing from the other speakers. Didn’t they know that the writers in the audience spent hundreds of dollars to attend the event? Even it they’d gotten in for fr*ee, who wants to be tortured by people in the know telling you to not even try getting published. Follow that logic and they should pack up their things as well and stop being agents. It’s too hard to sell books, right? Anyway, I know the three mindset tips aren’t easy… but keep reminding yourself of them. I have Ingrid here to remind me. Happy holidays and thanks for your ongoing kindness and support. Now you really know, I am paying attention. 😉 Mark (and Ingrid)