#PublishingReinvented 233 - Enthusiasm: The E in Our New ERA

This is the first in a three party exploration of the impact of three little addressed and often overlooked factors in the success of a book or author.

#1 is E for Enthusiasm!

I know this personally, as my energy levels rise as my enthusiasm rises, especially when others reflect my enthusiasm.

The book How to Become Famous: Lost Einsteins, Forgotten Superstars, and How the Beatles Came to Be emphasizes the critical role of enthusiasm and champions, others who are enthusiastic about you, in the journey toward success.

You may think enthusiasm is a little woo-woo, but again and again as book promoters we see the impact that an individual’s enthusiasm and resulting willingness to work hard have on their book sales.

Obvious, right, but there is more to this.

There is the critical impact of other people’s enthusiasm for a book.

Here's a summary of the key ideas related to this:

1. The Importance of Enthusiasm

• Success often hinges on not just talent but also the energy and enthusiasm that surrounds a creative endeavor. A passionate supporter can amplify this energy, bringing the right attention and opportunities.

2. Finding a Champion

• The book underscores the value of having a champion—someone who believes in your work and is willing to advocate for it. Champions often serve as connectors, promoters, or facilitators, helping creators reach wider audiences.

• For instance, Jane Austen's nephew, James Edward Austen-Leigh, played a significant role in championing her work and legacy after her death. He is best known for writing and publishing the first comprehensive biography of Austen, titled A Memoir of Jane Austen, in 1869. The memoir was instrumental in reviving Jane Austen's legacy during a period when her works risked being overshadowed by contemporary authors. By documenting her life and sharing personal insights, he introduced her to a broader audience and laid the groundwork for her enduring literary status. A champion made a legend.

3. Enthusiasm Creates Momentum

• Enthusiasm is contagious. A champion who genuinely believes in your work can inspire others to take interest, creating a snowball effect. This enthusiasm often fills the gap between raw talent and mainstream success.

• The How to Become Famous book discusses how this principle applies broadly to inventors, artists, and writers who might otherwise remain "lost Einsteins" or "forgotten superstars."

4. Building a Network of Enthusiasts

• It’s not just about finding one champion but also fostering a network of supporters who collectively amplify your work. These networks often include mentors, peers, and early adopters who help spread your message.

5. Overcoming Obscurity

• Many talented individuals fail to achieve recognition not because of a lack of ability but due to a lack of someone championing their cause. The book encourages creators to seek out those who are enthusiastic about their work and align with their vision.

6. Strategic Positioning

• Enthusiasm alone isn’t enough; it must be channeled effectively. The Beatles, for instance, paired their artistic talent with Brian Epstein’s business acumen, which strategically positioned them for success.

In essence, the book argues that enthusiasm, especially from champions who believe in you, is as pivotal to success as talent itself. It invites creators to actively seek out and cultivate relationships with those who can amplify their work.

How can BooksGoSocial help?

1. By finding the good in your book and telling people about it via an editorial review here. Every book on Amazon should have an editorial review.

2. By giving you personal feedback on how to present your book in the best possible way. We tweak book descriptions and change covers too. See our Amazon ads here, where all that is done as a free extra.

3. By arranging online and live events where you can build your list of champions. More on that in the weeks ahead.

Stay tuned for lots more this January!

Next week we will break apart the impact of Reputation on an author’s success.

After that we will discuss Alignment.

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