When Ingrid and I move to California at the end of this April it’s going to be a catalyst for you, in one way or another. So I thought I’d explain what we’re doing (and why), and tell you how it’s going to affect you.
For those of you who’ve followed The Bestselling Author and Literary Agent Undercover for a while, you know that we’ve grown a lot in the last 3-1/2 years. And you know that we’re moving to Beverly Hills.
Here’s what you don’t know…
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You Have a Big Decision to Make
Our move is an opportunity for you
to go big(ger) or be small.
Ingrid and I decided in December of last year that we were finally going to make the big move from the Boulder, Colorado area to Beverly Hills, California (we’re going to have someone in NYC as well, since that’s the publishing capitol of the world).
From the moment I started thinking about the move, it’s been simultaneously exciting and stressful. Tremendous opportunities mixed with equally tremendous unanswered questions and risks. Unfortunately, you can’t have one without the other. Otherwise everyone would be living their big lives and they’d feel more fulfilled.
For those of you who don’t know, Ingrid and I met at a writers’ conference in Santa Barbara in 2001. I was living in Ft. Lauderdale at the time and she was living in Malibu. I convinced Ingrid to move with me to Florida, with the understanding that one day soon we’d end up back in California. Several years later, the publisher I was working for in Florida relocated us to Boulder, Colorado. And now, many more years later, I’m finally making good on my promise to get Ingrid back to California!
Once we made the decision,
we started telling people.
Some of those people (normal people, in my book) said, “Congratulations.” They assumed that our moving from Colorado to California was something we wanted, and it would be a good thing. Those people asked us questions, seeming genuinely interested in our goals and dreams. They also said it made perfect sense for us to be in California since the movie industry is there and Ingrid works with some celebrity clients. Plus, there are a lot more events and places to network in Los Angeles.
Other people have reacted
very differently…
We’ve come across lots of negative Nellies and self-absorbed Sams. They’ve literally said things such as, “I’m sorry” when we shared the news about our move. They assumed that us moving from Colorado to California was something we didn’t want, or that we shouldn’t want. They made faces like they were constipated and told us why they didn’t like California. And they didn’t ask us one question about why we were doing it.
Gee, thanks.
Way to be a buzz kill
for us, and for yourself.
Here’s what
I mean…
Think about how our moving news is affecting you (even though you might think it’s not affecting you at all). When you first found out we were moving from a quiet little mountain town like Boulder… to the faster-paced, celebrity-filled city of Beverly Hills… what went through your mind?
Something did.
Whatever it was, it should be important to you because (on some level) those thoughts are a projection of how you view YOUR potential for greater influence, success, and happiness. That’s why us moving should be important to you. And that’s why we keep talking about it.
Life is nothing more than a series of decisions (big and small) that we’re forced to make every day about who we think we are… and who we think we can be. I say, “forced to make” because we all know that, every moment, we’re either growing or dying. There is no staying the same. So when other people around us make decisions to go bigger or smaller… it validates or challenges our view of ourselves, the choices we’re making, and the choices we’ve made in the past.
The more aware we are of that,
the more empowered we become.
Now…
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What Our Move Means for You
Only good things.
I realized I better spell this out though when someone asked me if we’d be continuing to run our businesses or shutting them down. “Of course we’re going to continue” I exclaimed, “you couldn’t drag us away from what we do, we love it.”
Fair question though…
But we’re not going anywhere
(except to California).
Now…
If you’re one of our coaching clients, you’re not going to miss a beat during our move. Don’t postpone anything you’re doing. With modern technology we have access to phones and emails 24/7, even when we’re on the road like we were this week house hunting (a story for another day – we learned the hard way that finding the perfect home is a lot like finding the perfect literary agent and publisher – not something to take lightly).
If you’re thinking about signing up for an introductory coaching call with me, I suggest you do that right away. Because of our upcoming move and the fact that we were on the road all of this week house hunting, there are less time slots available. In other words, the longer you wait to sign up for a call with me… the longer you’ll have to wait to get me on the phone (or Skype).
Other than that, our upcoming move simply means we’re going to have more influence, be more successful, and be happier. And that’s a good thing for you. No, that’s a GREAT thing for you… because it means we’ll be providing even more information, inspiration, and opportunities to help you become a bestselling author. Who knows, you might even want to come visit us in Beverly Hills.
Our stars are on the rise.
How about yours?
– Mark
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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 
Welcome to California. Colorado and all those other states are nice places to visit, but this is the place to live!
Thank you Ruth, and we agree. Here we come, end of the month. 😉 Mark
Good Grief!!!! I was only looking for an agent to let me know if the writing I have completed so far on this novel was even worth pursuing. It is a unique premice, yet all of this sudden incoming “promise” is bewildering.
Let me know what interest you have in an unpublished writer who THINKS he has a good book, which is not finished but has the complete plan figgured out.
Regards,
“Driver” Dave Farrell
Hi David, not sure what you mean by “of of this sudden incoming ‘promise’. We have a lot here to help you reach your goals as an author, if that’s what you mean. If you want 1-on-1 support, click here to learn about scheduling an introductory coaching call: http://thebestsellingauthor.com/coaching/intro-call/. And here’s a list of our websites to make it easier to find anything else you might be looking for: http://thebestsellingauthor.com/websites/. And you can also post questions for me here. I’ll get back to you ASAP and I’m happy to help. All my best, and good writing. Mark
Mark,
I’m on the camp of one who is so happy for you and Ingrid with your upcoming move. I LOVE California and all that it brings. I wish you happy house hunting…may the perfect house choose you.
Lisa
Hi Lisa, we finally found the perfect place after a few twists and turns… going to write about it later this week… of course. Thank you for sending us your love and support. Soon, I hope, we’ll have more things to celebrate together. 😉 Mark
I love it that you guys found that perfect house and it’s only about 120 minutes from me! While you two are settling into your new place I’ll be learning how to operate my new computer and for the first time I have internet! BBest wishes to you both! The Buckmasters
Hi Kathy, our new “neighbor.” Glad to hear you have a new computer. Have a great week and thanks for taking time to say hello. 😉 Mark
I have not long joined to received your newsletter and just read about you moving. I believe everything happens for a reason and if it is in the best interest of your life then it is meant to be, regardless of what anybody else thinks. No one can live in your footsteps but you. So your move benefits you and all of us who someday will ask for your guidance. Blessed Be.
Hi Jean, thank you for that and have a wonderful week. Welcome to The Bestselling Author and Literary Agent Undercover. And I look forward to learning more about you and your work. All my best to you and yours. Mark
Congratulations, Mark and Ingrid! May your lives in California be filled with happiness and prosperity!
Thank you Buck, right back at you. Mark
Mark, I appreciated your honesty more than I probably would even 2 weeks ago. I have had some major struggles that have made me look long and hard at my life and look deep within. Your honesty is refreshing and REAL! I can’t tell you how much it means to me to hear you being raw and just out there with your thoughts about what’s going on in your life. We should be all in this together so it saddens me that you had people pointing their finger and acting high and mighty. I am happy for you!!!
Hi Carolyn, thank you for celebrating with us… and saying such kind things. I hope things are looking better for you now. And I’m glad you’re part of this like-minded community of people who, for the most part, are positive and supportive of each other. Be well and thank you for posting. Mark
Mark, I could not be happier for you and Ingrid. Isn’t this what you’ve always wanted? An opportunity to move ahead, not slide backwards. So many professional people give up too easily, never quite able to pull it all together. You have my deepest respect for sticking with it and making it all work. I am preparing for my time to speak to you – the 20th from 1-2:00PM. I will have many questions and seek your expert guidance. Congratulations, my friend. You have earned your turn in the sun.
Hi Elizabeth, thank you… and yes, it is! We are celebrating everything we’ve done together over the last 14 years to get here. Life is good. Have a great day and talk soon. Mark
Hi Mark and Ingrid,
I feel it is wonderful for you to move and that you have the chance to do so. With Ingrid, in the field she is in and with your input. You will be able to help out so many more promising screen players, with fresh new talent, something that industries needs. I’ve only found your website a few weeks ago, it has been very informative, uplifting and so very supportive. Unlike what I receive from my family who thinks it is a waste of time.
Good luck with your move!!:)Joyce
Thank you Joyce. I’m delighted that you found me, especially since I now know you’re not getting much encouragement elsewhere. Here’s to staying positive, doing the work, and having great success! Mark
Great news! And congats on fulfilling your promise to your partner, it says a lot about a man. Forget about the ‘nay sayers’ they will never achieve anything really worthwhile. My father used to say “Mix with the people you admire.”
I view your move as ‘destiny’ for me and my project as it is set in beverly Hills but I live in Sydney, Australia! I have been truly blessed to have been given a totally unique story idea and to be the person I have become. What happens next will be very interesting
Hi Graeme, thank you for the support and kind words… and I agree with you. Very few people are part of our inner circle for the very reason you mentioned. Life is too short to let anyone even try to bring you down. Have a great weekend and keep moving forward with your project. And let me know if I can help in any way. All my best to you in Australia. Mark
I wish you both nothing but success. I have been reading and absorbing information since I found your site, but I am still on the fence about taking the leap of faith and signing up for anything. I was burned by an “agent” several years ago and have been very leary since. As such, I run my own editing service and have been struggling with getting published for over a decade.
Your information is very helpful and insightful, but I remain skeptical.
Hi Tami, thank you for the well wishes. Regarding signing up for anything with me, there is plenty of fr*ee information on our websites. So you can just use that and ignore everything else. My business is booming so I don’t need to hard sell anyone and it’s not my style anyway. I’m sorry to hear you’ve had a bad experience with someone else, but don’t let that stop you from finding new people… whether it’s me or someone else. Look at people’s testimonials. I have hundreds of them. And trust your gut. Just get your work out there, one way or another… and keep believing in yourself and your work. Mark
Ignore those who don’t understand California and best wishes to you both here.
Amen brother, and have a great weekend. Mark
I can’t believe people had a negative response. When I read of your upcoming move to southern California, I thought “thank God!” I think it’s a great move. Anyone in the communication business or any aspect of it needs to be where “the action is.” I love Boulder, but… Frankly, I was relieved to hear your news. The best to both of you. I think it can only benefit those of us who work with you. Congrats!
Hi Janis, took us by surprise as well. It’s amazing how much people project their own stuff and don’t even see it. Boulder and Colorado definitely have their perks, but CA is where we’re supposed to be right now. Thank you for the kind words and have a great weekend. Mark
Hi Mark & Ingrid,
Congratulations on your move and your house. I am extremely happy for you both. You give so much to others. You deserve to take care of yourselves as well. With phones and Skype, I don’t see the problem.
As for me, at the moment I only have one question–if you can refer me to a copy editor that is not on the financial high-scale, but good. I’m desperate so I can self-publish my book through BookBaby (this time). Much appreciated. Have fun in California!
Thank you Gippy, we’re going to love it in California. When it comes to editors, I put a call out last week but I don’t have anyone I can recommend yet. Stay tuned though because I will be posting something in the near future. And have a great weekend! Mark
A promise made to Ingrid
You made some time ago
Will now come to fruition
You’re letting us all know
Your move to California
Was always in the cards
You simply kept your promise
A sign of who you are
Your love is strong as ever
Though addresses will change
The west coast or the east coast
Your love still stays the same
Your businesses continuing
Intact, just like before
The thing’s that new will be the view
An ocean at your door!! :)
Hi Lynn, I’ll post pictures once we’re out here for good. Haven’t had time to breathe this trip. 😉 But we found a wonderful place and that’s all that matters… for now. Have a great weekend! Mark
Wishing you both every happiness and success in your new move, and well done Mark for your promise! LA is like everywhere else on the planet – it can be heaven or hell depending on how you choose to live it. Anyone who has anything negative to say about your move should keep stumm – anyone would think THEY are being sent to live there! haha I very much appreciate your amazing resources – keep it real and keep up the great work!
Thank you SJ, my sentiments exactly. Glad you’re getting something out of what we do, and have a great weekend. Mark
Congrats on your move! Keeping options open and being flexible is a great way to live. We just moved from Fort Collins, CO to Anaheim Hills, CA, so I have an idea of what you’re going through. The great news is that every place comes with its unique beauty and set of opportunities. You’re gonna love California! You will miss Colorado, but now you’ve got a wonderful place to go back to for visits and vacations. Getting to experience different places in life is a great thing, in my eyes. Enjoy!
Hi Graciela, well there you go. I’ve only been in California for a week but loving it. Head back to Colorado tomorrow. We have a month to say goodbye, than back to Beverly Hills. Here’s to new places and experiences, and have a great weekend! Mark
Hey Mark!
That’s wonderful, David and I have visited California and walked down Rodeo Drive, had a marvelous time! Life is but a mist, we should enjoy every minute…as far as the coaching call, it’s already scheduled…I’ll talk with you on April 10, 2015 @ 12:00 noon…congratulations on your relocation and new home!!
Terri
Hi Terri… nice. Life is short, that’s for sure. And I’m looking forward to our call. Have a great weekend and see you soon! Mark
I think if its what you both want then by all means you should do that. Personally it’s not what I would want to do, I kind of think of California as cereal land ,chocked full of nuts, fruits and flakes. LOL I’m still going to hire you to help me get my query letter written and teach me how to find a literary agent. My book is at KA and Associates getting edited now. I’ll have it back in about a week, then finish it up and on to you Mark!
Hi Lance, to each his own. We love California and just found the perfect place to live. Someone connected to Jay-Z lived there last. It’s a rocking pad. Good luck with the edits and you know where to find me. Mark
Best of luck to you both on your move to California. I’m still contemplating that coaching call with you and will decide soon. Since you have an office in NYC, will you ever be in the city? I live in NJ and wonder if you ever provide the coaching service face to face rather than Skype. Again, good luck with he move, say hi to Ingrid.
Hi John, and thank you. We just found the perfect place to live in Beverly Hills so I won’t be getting to NYC very often. I only do introductory calls by phone or Skype anyway though. But I do like to meet my longer-term coaching clients in person when possible. Be well and have a great weekend. Mark