🙂

Thanks, Jen, that's a nice way to say it - Alpha Dog's term for it would probably be 'nag,' but either way, I'm good with it - as long as there's a book at the end of it all!

Shannon, there are a ton of book coaches out there and they are golden for making sure that you have to report to someone who will push you. I worked with Nina Amir for a while but no one pushes any of us better than Laura. She's an accountability tiger. 🙂

I'm clearly not doing my job marketing (although that's one of my other businesses, teaching marketing.)

Most of my writing clients know how to write. They know what to say (I work with more non-fiction authors right now, but want to help more fiction authors.)

My job is to use what I know about psychology, change, motivation, and the fears we foist on ourselves, and help authors feel the positive motivation that comes from holding ourselves accountable.

When we do something because we're extrinsically motivated, that is, we have to (to meet a deadline, for instance) researchers like Teresa Amabile have proven time and again that the quality of our work diminishes. And yet, we can produce wonders in even less time if we're intrinsically motivated; in other words, we're working hard and fast because we choose to for ourselves, not for others.

When I can help an author remember their "why" and maintain their priorities, writing gets done that never would have seen the light of day. (What's rare is that I can do this for myself, too; I've published 10 books, released 6 of them on the same day, 11/11/11.)

I've never heard of an accountability mentor--that's a new one for me.

An editor who doesn't set a deadline? That's a rarity!

That's why an accountability mentor is the single most important partner an author can have. If you don't finish the book, you'll never need an editor, cover designer, or marketing help.

Aww, thanks Tiffany! I'd love for you to read it, but I know if Scout's napping, you'd better be! Hurry up and come back to the internet - we miss you!

Laura -

I committed a crime 4 days ago....yup I did. While Scout and I were pet-sitting for my mom, my duties are watering plants, feeding the dog...and getting her mail. Teehee!

There was a small white BOOK SHAPED package in that mail box with your name in the return address slot. That was all the permission i needed to rip that thing open and read!!!

Woot woot! I am so proud!