Crowded Airport when a woman exclaimed “I love your colors”. Adorned in summer colors, I replied crazy, right? Ahhh vibrancy she chirped. Vibrancy.
I leaned over and whispered back with a smile “vibrancy” and walked on.
I thought of that interface with a complete stranger. Such simple passerby exchange yet amicable. It left me thinking about perspective. It’s late evening and I’m taking the last flight out. I Only wanted to take a carryon to my out of state meeting so I placed the hot yellow necklace around my neck. Added the orange shoes with a red pants. But I’m known for that. I do things others are afraid to do, all with a purpose… my purpose to take one bag (smile)
How about you? Do you do things that perturb others leaving them wondering… could that be me? Do share. We would love to hear.
The publishing process can be intimidating for an unknown writer. The traditional Agent-Publisher-Author relationship is hard. Rejection after rejection is common as Agents say ‘no’. Writers become discouraged and often give up. Manuscripts stay in the darkness of desk drawers for years.
As time has involved, so has the advent of self-publishing. Writers become bold and take advantage of their publishing plight. They make bold moves; step ahead, take the reins to achieve their publishing goal of becoming an author. With low budget and unplanned expenses, some cut corners and quality becomes compromised. Book covers are mediocre. Titles lack depth. Formatting is non-existent, which leads to the demise of some great manuscripts.
On the other hand, some writers step out, work hard, invest, learn the process, and viola! Success follows!
Self-Publishing Success
Here are 15 Authors of color who achieved significant success through self-publishing:
Toni Morrison – While primarily known for her traditionally published works, she self-published her first novel “The Bluest Eye” before gaining wider recognition
Terry McMillan – Initially self-published her debut novel “Mama” before securing a publisher for subsequent works
N.K. Jemisin – First self-published some of her fantasy work before becoming the first author to win the Hugo Award for Best Novel three years in a row
Alexandria House – Found success self-publishing contemporary romance novels featuring Black characters
Kristen Ashley – Built a dedicated following through self-publishing her romance novels before signing with traditional publishers
Brenda Jackson – Pioneer in African American romance who began with self-publishing before becoming a New York Times bestseller
Alyssa Cole – Initially self-published her diverse romance novels before becoming an award-winning author
K.M. Jackson – Self-published romance author who found success writing diverse contemporary stories
Nikki Turner – Self-published her first urban fiction novel before becoming known as the “Queen of Hip-Hop Fiction”
Beverly Jenkins – Started self-publishing historical romances featuring Black characters when traditional publishers showed little interest
Sister Souljah – Self-published “The Coldest Winter Ever” which became a groundbreaking street lit phenomenon
Nnedi Okorafor – Self-published some of her early Africanfuturist works before winning multiple prestigious awards
Kiini Ibura Salaam – Award-winning speculative fiction writer who self-published collections of her short stories
Octavia Butler – Though mostly known for her traditionally published works, she self-published some early stories
Zane – Built an erotic fiction empire beginning with self-published works before launching her own publishing company
These authors demonstrated outstanding entrepreneurial spirit and literary talent often creating space for Black women’s voices. This occurred at a time when traditional publishing wasn’t receptive to their work. Many of these women went on to sign traditional deals. Suffice it to say they proved their commercial viability through self-publishing. Others maintained independence throughout their careers.
Need help to get over your fear to make the leap? Let these women inspire your journey. Thoughts about any of these or other women of color who have experienced success? Do share. We would love to hear.
“Writing is a process, a journey into memory and the soul.”
Isabel Allende
Award-Winning Storyteller and Journalist Sharon Gordon published her debut novel Sheribaby and started off with a bang! Introverts may not be as purposeful due to shyness. They are reserved and avoid putting themselves ‘out there’ for the world to see them and their author life.
That said, here are 15 women authors who found significant success through self-publishing:
Amanda Hocking – Became a millionaire by self-publishing her paranormal romance novels before signing with a traditional publisher
E.L. James – Initially self-published “Fifty Shades of Grey” as fan fiction before it became a global phenomenon
Colleen Hoover – Self-published her debut novel “Slammed” before becoming a #1 New York Times bestselling author
Rachel Abbott – One of the UK’s most successful self-published authors with her thriller novels
Lindsay Buroker – Found success with her Emperor’s Edge fantasy series and numerous other works
Bella Forrest – Self-published the phenomenally successful “A Shade of Vampire” series
H.M. Ward – Romance author who sold millions of copies of her self-published works
Jasinda Wilder – Self-published numerous bestselling romance novels before signing a traditional deal
Vi Keeland – Initially self-published her romance novels before becoming a #1 New York Times bestseller
Penny Reid – Built a successful career with her self-published romantic comedies
Rupi Kaur – Self-published her poetry collection “Milk and Honey” which became a worldwide bestseller
Sierra Simone – Found success with her provocative romance novels
Sarina Bowen – Award-winning romance author who began her career self-publishing
L.J. Shen – Romance author who built a massive following through self-publishing
Many of these authors began self-publishing when traditional routes weren’t available to them. They remained independent even after achieving success. Several eventually signed traditional publishing deals after demonstrating their commercial appeal through self-publishing
Need help to get over your fear of leveling up to achieve your goal of being a published author? Let these women inspire you. Have you or someone you know stepped out and achieved success? Do share. We would love to hear.
Absolutely thrilled to announce that Sharon Gordon’s debut book “Sheribaby is NOW AVAILABLE!
Journalist Sharon, is the talented 2025 Award winning Storyteller and niece of beloved Jamaica’s Singer Songwriter Beresford Hammond.
I met Sharon a decade ago when Reggae music matriarch Miss Patricia Chin, hosted my Success Strategies of Caribbean American Leaders book event at VP Records, New York.
It’s been such an honor to guide Sharon through the book publishing journey – from connecting her with Raquel, the perfect editor for her genre, to navigating publisher conversations and finally seeing her words in print.
Her dedication to the craft and willingness to embrace the publishing process made this success inevitable. This is why I do what I do!
Congratulations Sharon! Indeed, hard work pays off!
If you have been dreaming of becoming a published author but aren’t sure where to start, let Sharon’s journey inspire you. With the right guidance, YOUR story could be next on the shelves!
Poetry is ordinary language raised to the Nth power. Poetry is boned with ideas, nerved and blooded with emotions, all held together by the delicate, tough skin of words. – Paul Engle
An evening of laughter, fun and cheer! Yes indeed, it was great ❤️ The Writers Group of South Florida Authors performed. Energy pumped, attendees became inspired, created and shared on-the-spot pieces.
Personally, it was an honor to have lead this initiative and to have read Poet Charmaine Allwood-Hanson’s piece “WE ARE THE CARIBBEAN”, written in recognition of Caribbean American Heritage Month 2021.
An energizing event with promises of more to come.
Thanks fellow author and Poet, Dr. Susan Lycett Davis for the La Veranda venue referral. It was the perfect location to host this inaugural Open Mic event 🎙️
At the end of the day, we can endure much more than we think we can.
Frida Kahlo
Women often face unique financial challenges due to various societal, economic, and cultural factors. Lots of changes on the horizon albeit slow. Here are some common financial problems that women frequently encounter:
Gender pay gap: On average, women earn less than men for comparable work, which affects their overall financial health.
Career interruptions: Women are more likely to take time off work for caregiving responsibilities (children or elderly parents), impacting their earning potential and career advancement.
Longer life expectancy: Women generally live longer than men, requiring more savings for retirement and potentially facing years of managing finances alone.
Lower lifetime earnings: Due to pay gaps and career interruptions, women often accumulate less wealth over their lifetimes.
Underrepresentation in high-paying fields: Women are often underrepresented in STEM and other high-paying industries.
Financial literacy: There’s often a gap in financial education and confidence in managing complex financial matters.
Divorce financial impact: Women may face significant financial challenges following divorce, especially if they were not the primary earner.
Single parenthood: Single mothers often face additional financial strain managing household expenses on a single income.
Investment gap: Women tend to invest less and more conservatively than men, potentially leading to lower long-term wealth accumulation.
Healthcare costs: Women typically have higher healthcare expenses over their lifetime, including reproductive health costs.
Debt: Women, on average, carry more student loan debt and may take longer to pay it off due to lower earnings.
Entrepreneurship challenges: Women-owned businesses often face greater difficulties in securing funding and investments.
Can you align with one, two or a few? Any challenges missing that you can add? Please share. We would love to hear.
Empowering Women’s Ascent. A great event for sisters, friends or colleagues to boost your self esteem, increase your knowledge, set goals, become assertive, practice self-care and more. The Writers Group of South Florida’s upcoming Women’s Empowerment event promises to be inspiring and an event not to be missed. It will be held at the West Regional Library Broward Boulevard, Plantation, Florida on Saturday, September 28.
Attendees will be inspired by thought provoking topics including:
Women in Leadership: Empowering Women to rise into leadership roles to reach their full potential
Learn the Challenges women face and the strategies to overcome
Breakthrough: Transitioning from Burnout to Balance helping driven women and busy moms transform their thinking and redefine balance in their lives
Achieving Financial Independence: Enabling women to gain control of their financial futures and becoming financially secure.
The event will be cemented by an exciting Panel Discussion with Founder, VP Records and Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient Patricia Chin (Miss Pat).
Other guest speakers include Dr. Susan Davis, Attorney Asiah Wolfolk Manning, The Sisters and yours truly, Dr. Shelly.
This empowerment event promises to be great. In South Florida? Plan to attend and if you’re not, we will revert with all the Deets post event.
Coaching is partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential. The process of coaching often unlocks previously untapped sources of imagination, productivity and leadership (International Coaching Federation – ICF)
People often misunderstand what coaching is. It is often misinterpreted as only being needed by people who need to improve their on-the-job performance or when facing challenges. To provide clarity, here are some common myths about coaching:
Wisdom deepens with age, and at 50, it’s a treasure.
Here are 50 things I have learnt as I traversed a life dedicated to learning, community and personal growth of myself and others. The excess have been included as a gift for those who are more curious and may choose to adopt a nugget or two as you transition at ages 30, 40, 60 or above.
May you be inspired to achieve.
Let no one define what success means to you. Define it for yourself.
Some people are beautiful. Others are just searching. They Maybe sad or even lonely. Don’t hold it against them.
When you’re at the top, stay true to who you are. You’ll see the same people on your way down.
Be cordial. It contributes to your success.
Smile often. It attracts.
Read. It’s an action.
Pray about everything.
Give thanks in all things.
Say thank you.
Stay curious. Ask Questions.
Find a mantra – a quote that drives you to achieve.
Believe that all things are possible because they are.
Get a dog.
Don’t understand something? Ask. You may help someone in the same situation as yourself.
Show up.
Get involved in your community.
Roll up your sleeves and work.
Go to the beach. Be mesmerized by the waves, the sea and its natural beauty.
Look up. Get inspired.
Dream it. Then work it. You’ll achieve it.
Embrace love. It’s beautiful.
Fight for what you want.
Don’t give up too easily.
Be smart. Know when it’s time to let go.
Move on when the time is right.
Try something new.
Get away often. Stress dissipates.
Travel the world.
Try a staycation.
Bask in beautiful memories.
Celebrate other’s success.
Mourn with those who mourn.
Appreciate depth.
Be yourself… always.
You’re never too old to try something new.
Take care of yourself.
Listen to your body. It speaks.
Save for a rainy day.
Age teaches wisdom but it also brings sighs when you watch others making the mistakes you did because they won’t listen. But remember everyone has to grow on their own path. Don’t be sad, they will learn and make their own U-turn.
Pray with others.
Listen to that still small voice.
Don’t let life pass you by. Stop and smell the roses.
Stay engaged. Learn.
Relax. Watch a movie.
Smell the rain. Embrace the sunshine.
Plan a trip with extended family.
Be there for someone who needs you.
Dress up for no reason.
Have dinner by yourself. Experience you.
Surprise a friend.
It’s time. Don’t put it off anymore.
Go for a walk. Ease stress.
Call a parent, grandparent or someone elderly.
Volunteer to help a neighbor.
Go on a solo retreat at least once in your lifetime. You’ll find out a lot about yourself.
Keep your eye on that goal.
Get an accountability partner or a coach if you need help.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Journal your thoughts. It’s great to look back and reflect on how far you have come. Besides, it helps build mental strength.
Keep your mouth shut. Share only what needs to be said.
You can count on me. Can others count on you?
Take accountability for your actions.
Stay focused on your future but don’t become so obsessed that you miss the journey.
Life is what you make it. Make it great.
You win some. You lose some. That’s life. Move on.
By the age of twenty, you know you’re not going to be a rock star. By twenty-five, you know you’re not going to be a dentist or any kind of professional. And by thirty, darkness starts moving in- you wonder if you’re ever going to be fulfilled, let alone wealthy and successful. By thirty-five, you know, basically, what you’re going to be doing for the rest of your life, and you become resigned to your fate…
Doug Couplan
Anthony felt like Doug’s quote when he cried out for help. It seems like doomsday to him. We began chatting with the goal to put some things in place because all is not lost.
For those turning age 30 and feel alone as if they’re fighting to achieve their dreams, this is the stage where you should be self-reflecting, skill evaluating, engaging in healthy habits and networking. Here each point is explained.
Self-Reflection:
Reflect on your achievements and experiences so far.
Identify personal and professional goals for the next decade.
Skill Enhancement:
Assess your skillset and consider acquiring new skills.
Explore educational opportunities or certifications that align with your career goals.
Healthy Habits:
Establish and prioritize healthy lifestyle habits.
Focus on physical and mental well-being to set a foundation for the future.
Networking:
Build and strengthen professional networks.
Seek mentorship and guidance from experienced individuals in your field.
Are you age 30 and experiencing any of these signs? You may also have already turned 30 and have lots to share about your journey. Do share. We would love to hear.
As an author of several books in business, leadership, success and inspiration, I jump at author learning event opportunities.
As a member of the Florida writers association, this was no exception.
This year’s festival was filled with tons of learnings as Readers and Writers came together at FWA’s annual Sunshine State Book Festival held at #UF Gainesville, Hilton University of Florida Conference Center Gainesville
Met many new authors doing Big things! Discussions included Pulitzer Prize winner – Jack Davis on writing and publishing. Engaging panel discussion on Freedom to Read vs banned books, children’s book live presentations and more.
As my favorite quote says, writers write, readers read, together they are one.
Seek them out. Buy their books. Write reviews. Get consumed in reading no matter the genre.
