You Should Write a Book With Camille Pagán
By Even Better Co.
You Should Write a Book With Camille PagánMay 07, 2024
83. How to say no
Reaching your writing goals is going to require you to say no—sometimes even to opportunities you might want to say yes to.
- Why saying no can feel so uncomfortable (and how to do it anyway).
- When it’s actually worth it to say yes.
- The serendipity of making more space for yourself and your career.
Quick note: In today’s episode, Camille mentions and recommends Turning Pro by Steven Pressfield.
82. How to make writing (and your career) easier
No, writing doesn’t have to feel so hard all the time. In this episode, Camille shares:
- The one question that reduced the workload on her latest revise.
- Simple solutions for creating more ease in your career.
- How other people are often the key to locating the “easy button” on a tricky project.
For more resources to uplevel your author career, visit evenbetter.co.
81. How to create a second chance
If your last book didn’t sell well and you’re worried your publishing career is over, this episode’s for you. In it, Camille shares:
- The myth of being “unpublishable”—and the reason you probably couldn’t quit if you tried.
- The unexpected lesson she learned as a runner that made all the difference in her author career.
- Why writing a book you care about is the most important step in creating another chance.
- How to make your own luck.
80. How to take a break
Rest is essential for your brain and body—and yes, for writing a good book. In this episode, Camille talks about:
- The reason you probably feel restless when you’re away from your computer.
- The surprising way taking time off benefits your story.
- How to stop worrying about losing momentum and start trusting you’ll follow through.
- Why rest may just be a bestseller’s best strategy.
79. How to tell a better story (about yourself)
Whether you realize it or not, you’ve probably got some not-so-great stories about yourself—and they may be standing between you and success. In today’s episode, Camille shares:
- The reasons your brain skews negative (even though it makes you feel lousy).
- Why telling a better story doesn’t necessarily mean being positive.
- The research-backed benefits of taking control of your career narrative.
- How to harness your own storytelling skills to reach your goals—and actually enjoy the process.
Note: This is the last episode of season 2 of You Should Write a Book. Camille will be back with a new season and episodes May 7th. For free resources on creating an even better author career, visit evenbetter.co.
78. How to get rejected
To succeed as a writer, you have to be willing to get rejected—a lot. In this episode, Camille discusses:
- Simple ways to normalize “no”
- Why we often mistake short-term data for long-term results
- Using small wins to boost your confidence and overcome negativity bias
Interested in one-on-one coaching? Camille is taking on two new clients in Q2. To learn more and fill out an application, visit evenbetter.co/coaching.
77. How to get unstuck—and get back to writing
If you’ve ever gotten stalled while working on your story, this episode’s for you. Camille shares:
- Why it’s so easy to interpret uncertainty as a sign you need to stop writing.
- The surprising step that’s more important than “butt in chair” when you’re stuck.
- The reason reworking your outline is the worst thing to do when you’re overwhelmed—and what to do instead.
Note: Camille mentions (and recommends) Albert Ellis Ph.D.’s book How to Stubbornly Refuse to Make Yourself Miserable About Anything—Yes, Anything! in this episode. You can read more about Ellis here: https://albertellis.org/about-albert-ellis-phd/
76. How to stop fearing success
Who on earth would be afraid of success? The truth is, almost everyone. But that fear doesn’t have to stand between you and your writing goals. In today’s episode, Camille shares:
- Four common reasons we fear success
- What she learned about self-sabotage from The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks, Ph.D.
- Signs you might be getting in your own way without even realizing it
- A simple but incredibly effective exercise to move past worry and take more action
75. How to move past the fear of failure
You may always be a little afraid of failing—but there’s a lot you can do to prevent that fear from holding you back. In today’s episode, Camille shares:
- A powerful new way to look at failure
- What you’re really afraid of when you say you don’t want to get things wrong
- The paralyzing effect of trying to make the “right” decision
- Why getting clear on your mission as a writer can help you take more action (even when you’re afraid)
74. How to decide if and when to abandon your manuscript
Not sure if your current story or draft is publishable? Camille shares a framework for deciding whether to do more work—or move on to the next project.
She covers:
- How her four “drawer drafts” helped her publish ten books she’s proud of
- The most important thing to ask yourself when evaluating your own work
- A simple trick for getting out of your own head and getting much-needed perspective on your story
- Why breakthroughs often follow a much-needed break
73. How to use disappointment to your advantage
Feeling disappointed? That’s not a problem. In fact, you can harness that emotion to succeed. In today’s episode, Camille shares:
- Common misconceptions about disappointment (and how they can keep you from reaching your goals)
- The real reason criticism can live rent-free in your head
- Simple ways to reframe setbacks—without gaslighting yourself
Join Camille and book coach Nicole Meier on Monday, February 26th, for a free webinar: Build Your Creative Community: How to Connect With Other Writers to Create a Better Writing Career. For more details and to register for the event, visit https://www.evenbetter.co/webinar
72. How to set boundaries
Boundaries aren’t just about safeguarding your writing time; they’re also essential for protecting your mental health and creativity. In this episode, Camille shares:
- The painful lesson she learned after sharing her manuscript without setting boundaries first
- How to set standards that serve your career
- The simple way to stop worrying about how your boundaries will impact others (and get back to writing)
To get details for the free webinar Camille is hosting on February 26th with book coach Nicole Meier, sign up for the You Should Write a Book newsletter at: www.evenbetter.co/how-to
71. How to play the long game
If you’re feeling frustrated that you haven’t reached your publishing goals yet or that your hard work hasn’t paid off, this episode is for you. In it, Camille shares:
- Long-game strategies to steal from athletes and actors
- The simple concept that takes luck out of the equation—so you can stop worrying and succeed
- Why your self-imposed deadlines may be a secret form of self-sabotage
- A better way to compare yourself to other authors
P.S. If you’re querying or preparing to publish, be sure to check out Pitch Pro, a free guide to writing a stellar query or book blurb: www.evenbetter.co/pitchpro
70. How to find time to write
A busy schedule doesn’t have to stand between you and getting your book done. In this episode, Camille discusses:
- Why there will never be the “right time” to write—and the reason that’s a good thing
- How to handle transitions between writing and other tasks
- Using your calendar to overcome decision fatigue and waning willpower
- The simple self-talk strategy that can help you overcome procrastination
Want to go deeper on time management? Camille recommends Laura Vanderkam’s books, especially 168 Hours: You Have More Time Than You Think.
69. How to feel self-confident
Though they’re often used interchangeably, self-confidence isn’t the same thing as confidence—and it may just be the secret to reaching your writing goals. In this episode, Camille shares:
- The surprising connection between self-confidence and energy
- Why you can be anxious—and still feel self-confident
- How to stop comparing yourself to others, even if you’re not where you want to be in your publishing career
- Simple ways to build self-trust (hint: it begins with honoring your commitments to yourself)
The Career Novelist Mastermind is almost full. To apply, visit www.evenbetter.co/mastermind
Questions about the mastermind or this episode? Email team@evenbetter.co
68. How to get over imposter syndrome
Most writers will experience imposter syndrome—but feeling like you don’t deserve your success can sabotage your career. In this episode, Camille shares:
- The simple framework that can help you stop feeling like a fraud
- How to take credit for what you’ve done … without turning into an egomaniac
- What’s changed for Camille since she got over her own imposter syndrome
- Why real talk with other writers may just be the secret to being secure in your own career
Note: The 2024 Career Novelist Mastermind kicks off on February 1st. If you want to make this year the year you reach your big publishing goals, apply now at www.evenbetter.co/mastermind.
Questions about the mastermind or podcast? Email team@evenbetter.co
67. How to put the wind back in your sails
If you’re feeling defeated by the publishing industry or thinking of giving up on your writing dreams, listen to this episode first. In it, Camille shares:
- What she did after feeling burned out last year (hint: it wasn’t writing)
- The most important thing to ask yourself when you’re discouraged
- The surprising connection between slowing down and creativity
- Why supporting other writers can be as beneficial as being lifted up by them—and how to find the right community to help you succeed
Seeking a community of dedicated novelists who will have your back? The 2024 Career Novelist Mastermind begins February 2nd. Learn more at www.evenbetter.co/mastermind
66. How to make a change
Ready to make 2024 the year you reach your big writing goals? You can—but doing so will probably involve some degree of change.
In this episode, Camille shares:
- Why writers who are willing to change have a distinct competitive advantage
- How to shift the way you identify yourself in order to change your habits
- The paradox of embracing the old in order to create something new
- What research reveals about the “fresh start effect” and how to use it now—or at any time—to succeed
If you’re ready to believe, behave, and run your business like a bestseller, the 2024 Career Novelist Mastermind begins February 2nd. Learn more about this small group coaching program and apply at www.evenbetter.co/mastermind
65. How to succeed as an author
In today’s episode, Camille shares eight things she’s learned from her clients this year, including:
- Why it’s never too late to go for your big publishing goals
- The true definition of a career author
- How to speed up your growth (hint: it has everything to do with community)
- The reason tactics tend to fail—and why mindset matters most
The next round of the Career Novelist Mastermind begins in February, and applications will open in January. To learn more, visit
Note: This is the last episode of the You Should Write a Book podcast in 2023! We’ll be back in 2024 with a new season and new episodes. Thanks for tuning in, and happy New Year.
64. How to write a book in an hour a day
One of the biggest reasons people don’t finish (or even begin) writing a book is because they believe they don’t have time. But even if you have a day job and family obligations, you can still reach your publishing goals. In today’s episode, Camille shares:
- Why a single hour actually is enough to finish a draft—fast
- How to pick the best time to write
- Simple ways to set better boundaries
- Routines that create success
Sign up for the free Success Strategies for Career Novelists webinar on December 8th from 12-1 ET here: www.evenbetter.co/novelsuccess
63. How to be your own benefactor
Too many authors avoid talking—or even thinking—about money. But being able to pay your bills ups the odds of reaching your publishing goals. In today’s episode, Camille discusses:
- Why she’s always had a second income source, even though she could be writing fiction full-time
- How to create a side hustle that benefits your writing career
- A simple but super-important step to take if you get a six- or seven-figure book deal
- The surprising reason setting up a LLC or S-corp can lead to more success
Sign up for the free Success Strategies for Career Novelists webinar on December 8th from 12-1 ET here: www.evenbetter.co/novelsuccess
Links from today’s episode:
The Hot Sheet: https://hotsheetpub.com
The 2023 Author’s Guild Author Income Survey: https://authorsguild.org/news/key-takeaways-from-2023-author-income-survey/
62. How to choose yourself (rerun and update)
Note: Because it’s a holiday week in the United States, this week’s episode is a rerun, with an exciting update. Tune in next week for a new episode and a special announcement. Happy Thanksgiving to all who celebrate.
Camille coaches Debra, a novelist who’s considering self-publishing. We cover:
- How to tell a better story (about your career)
- When it makes sense to self-publish
- A simple but ultra-effective way to brand yourself as an author
- Why making long-term plans can lead to quick short-term wins
61. How to care less
Worrying about what other people think often paralyzes writers and prevents us from creating our best work. In this episode, Camille shares how to move past the fear of judgment. She discusses:
- How to make your own opinion the loudest voice in the room
- The simple question that often leads to major career breakthroughs
- Whose feedback to consider—and whose to forget
- Three questions that can help you get better feedback
60. How to find flow
Working in a flow state doesn’t just feel good—it can increase productivity by a whopping 500%. In today’s episode, Camille talks about:
- The most common misconception about flow
- Why self-consciousness sabotages flow—and how to stop judging yourself
- The surprising way to supercharge creativity
- How to use a writing habit to get in a flow state more often
Important note: If you or someone you know are in emotional distress or in suicidal crisis, please get help instead of trying to go it alone. If you’re in the U.S., call 988 or visit https://988lifeline.org for free 24/7 support and crisis resources.
59. How to sell yourself—without selling out
Pitching your projects and building an author brand doesn’t have to feel slimy or unaligned. Whether you’re querying your first book or are looking for more efficient ways to market your backlist, there’s an easer—and yes, more authentic—way to sell yourself. In this episode, Camille shares:
- The baffling conversation with a fellow author that made her rethink how she was describing her work
- Why genre isn’t as important as you might think
- A simple framework for making your writing sound enticing
- The importance of choosing good comps (and how to do exactly that)
58. How to keep going when life feels hard
If you’re struggling right now and it’s impacting your writing, you’re not alone. In this episode, Camille shares:
- The time she missed a major deadline—and why she was wrong about it hurting her career
- The simple question that can help you feel better
- When to lower the bar—and even take a break from your book
- How to make writing more of a respite (which is crucial when you’re grappling emotionally)
57. How to be visible
Being afraid to be visible can keep you from following through, sharing your work, and reaching your big goals as an author. In today’s episode, Camille shares:
- How to tell if visibility issues are holding you back
- The real reason we fear being canceled
- The surprising link between procrastination and visibility
- Simple ways to be less invested in all feedback (your career will thank you)
56. How to love writing
Yes, writing can be hard sometimes. But you can and should enjoy it more often. In this episode, Camille shares:
- Why feeling good while you write—instead of just afterwards—can lead to a better book
- The surprising benefit of viewing drafting as “me time”
- How to use simple rituals to reinvigorate your daily writing practice
- When to drop deadlines that may be keeping you stuck
You’ll find Lainey Cameron's podcast, The Best of Women’s Fiction, which Camille mentions in this episode, here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-of-womens-fiction/id1552557042
55. How to finish strong
Want to end 2023 on a high note? In this episode, Camille discusses how to go all in on what’s most important to you in Q4. She shares:
- What you can accomplish in just three months (hint: it’s a lot)
- Why we use negative self-talk to motivate ourselves—and how to stop doing that
- Simple ways to make time and energy for your big writing goals
- The upside of embracing discomfort
54. How to get your hopes up
Camille shares the keynote speech she gave at the Women’s Fiction Writers Association’s 10th Anniversary Conference in Chicago. She discusses:
- One key sign that you actually do believe you can reach your goals
- How viewing your industry as your enemy impacts your career—and how to change your mind (without gaslighting yourself)
- Why getting your hopes up actually ups your odds of success
- A paradigm shift for any writer agonizing over the amount of marketing authors “have” to do
The Career Novelist Mastermind kicks off October 12th. If you’re interested in learning proven strategies for taking your author career to the next level and beyond, visit evenbetter.co/mastermind to learn more.
53. How to pitch your novel
Yes, there are a million ways to market your work (only a slight exaggeration). But arguably the most important step that any novelist should take is often the one they most struggle with, or simply overlook. In this episode, Camille shares:
- Why marketing begins and ends with your query or book blurb
- The importance of honing your pitch—even if you’ve already sold a novel the traditional route
- The overlap between a query letter and a book blurb (and why, when done well, the two are virtually identical)
For a free training on how to effectively pitch your novel, visit evenbetter.co/pitchpro.
52. How to deal with naysayers and negative people
What do you do when a friend, partner, or even fellow writer doesn’t believe you can reach your big goals? In this episode, Camille discusses:
- How other people’s expectations can shape your experience
- When to be direct about the support you need—and when to change the subject (or even your relationships)
- Why well-meaning experts may tell you not to get your hopes up
- The importance of protecting your dreams … and even being “selfish”
51. How to believe you can reach your writing goals
Yes, belief is important—but what you do every day may be even more important. In today’s episode, Camille shares:
- The fascinating relationship between belief and behavior
- How to get past imposter syndrome (without writing affirmations all day)
- What research reveals about optimism and not “jinxing yourself” by getting your hopes up
- Two simple questions that can motivate you to write more
For more resources, including free webinars, on reaching your writing goals, visit EvenBetter.co.
50. How to focus
Camille talks about deciding to make more space for her writing this summer. She discusses:
- Why we overcommit (it’s not just about guilt)—and how to stop doing that
- The fundamental ingredients of focus and flow
- The real benefit of setting an “impossible” goal
- The question that will help you make goal-oriented decisions that feel good
Note: The You Should Write a Book podcast will be on hiatus this summer. Get free advice on business, branding, and mindset for authors by signing up for the You Should Write a Book newsletter at: www.evenbetter.co/newsletter
49. How to find your throughline
Camille speaks with Katie Rose Guest Pryal, an award-winning author and speaker on mental health and neurodiversity. Among other things, they discuss:
- The truth about making money as a writer
- Writing about mental health and neurodiversity in a way that isn’t reductive or centered around “overcoming” a disability—and how to get help writing about perspectives you haven’t lived through
- The joy of giving up your backup plans and going all in on writing (or anything else you really want to do)
- How to find your lane as an author … by pursuing what actually interests you (and why you don’t need to rush to define your brand)
For more on Katie’s work, https://katieroseguestpryal.com
48. How to avoid a disastrous debut
According to a new report from The Bookseller, more than half of authors say publishing their debut negatively impacted their mental health—and just 22% reported an overall positive experience with their first publication. But your debut doesn’t have to derail your career or mental health. In this episode, Camille shares:
- Why her own debut experience was the opposite of what she expected
- The three most powerful steps you can take to make your debut a better experience (and the launchpad for a long, successful career if you’ve already published)
- Details on a free event for debut authors taking place on May 25, 2023
Register for Success Strategies for Debut Authors, a free hour-long webinar, by visiting evenbetter.co/debut
47. How to write a first draft
Camille coaches Saleema, a writer who's confident drafting flash fiction and short stories, but feels less certain about writing her first novel. They cover:
- How long a first draft of a novel really needs to be
- Why we want to be perfect when we know it’s not possible (and how to get over that)
- The best way to show up on social media before you’re published
- Easing your way into telling a better story … about yourself
46. How to collaborate for a better book
Camille chats with Jodi Warshaw, who was until 2021 a founding editor of Lake Union Publishing (and Camille’s longtime editor), and is now an independent developmental editor and publishing consultant. They cover:
- Why publishing takes so long—and how to embrace that
- The foundation of a successful editor-author relationship
- What “relatable” really means when it comes to characters
- How to work with an editor to ensure your intention for your story comes through on the page
Learn more about Jodi’s services and career at https://jwedits.net
45. How to trust your gut
Camille coaches Kelly Farmer, a traditionally published novelist who’s trying to tell the difference between her intuition and old stories she has about indie publishing.
They cover:
- Why gathering more information often sets the stage for intuition
- The secret to successful visualization
- How to mine your past in order to recognize a true aha moment
- The Leslie Jones quote that changed everything for Kelly (hint: it’s about not making decisions from desperation)
To learn more about Kelly’s books, including her forthcoming novel It’s a Fabulous Life, visit https://www.kellyfarmerauthor.com.
44. How to find what works (and cut what doesn’t)
Camille coaches R.J. Fox, an author and screenwriter who needs to cut his current draft in half.
They cover:
- How to prove whether an idea is working (hint: it’s not about getting feedback from other people)
- The power of making advanced decisions about how you’ll work
- Using a simple 3-act structure to streamline your story
- Why watching TV and movies can make you a better writer
For more on R.J.’s books and work, visit https://rjfoxwriter.wordpress.com/ or follow him on Twitter @foxwriter7.
43. How to stop overthinking and start writing
Camille coaches Julie Chavez, a memoirist who’s making the leap to writing fiction. They cover:
- Why our love of books can get in the way of actually writing them
- A simple exercise to tell if your story’s compelling
- How to spread success from one area of your life to your fiction career
- Why fiction is a mood—and how to create it
For more about Julie’s writing and forthcoming memoir, Everyone But Myself, visit: JulieWritesWords.com.
42. How to go from aspiring to author
Camille interviews Kyunghee Kim, an author who just published her first children’s book.
They cover:
- Why staying flexible can be the secret to getting published faster
- How to tell if your new idea is a distraction … or your next project
- The trials—and rewards—of being multi-passionate
- The importance of letting other people celebrate your success
Learn more about Kyunghee and her book, See Us Bloom, at https://kimkyunghee.com
41. How to go pro
Whether you’re working on your first novel or your fiftieth, showing up a professional will help you reach your goals faster—and make your success last.
On this episode, Camille shares:
- The one question every writer should ask herself
- How to plan to succeed (hint: it doesn’t involve a traditional business plan)
- Using setbacks to supercharge your motivation
- Why belief is more important than talent (really)
P.S. In this episode, Camille mentioned writing books by the following authors:
David Gaughran: https://davidgaughran.com
Chris Fox: https://www.chrisfoxwrites.com/for-writers/
40. How to feel confident talking about your book
Camille talks to Suzy England, an author who wants to feel more prepared when speaking to book clubs and other groups. They cover:
- Four simple topics authors can talk about at any event
- Why book club questions can be as helpful for you as they are for readers
- How to transfer confidence from another area of life to your author career
- Focusing on connection instead of validation to feel at ease in front of a crowd
You can learn more about Suzy and her books at SuzyEngland.com
39. How to find the writing process that works for you
Camille talks to Kelly, an author who is reassessing the way she writes after receiving helpful feedback from her literary agent. We cover:
- Using comparisonitis—a.k.a. imposter syndrome—to your advantage (yes, it’s possible!)
- Why it’s so important to write for yourself first
- How to turn an aha moment into a sustainable habit
- The perks of scheduling a weekly coaching session with yourself—and the one question to consider reflecting on when you do
38. How to pick the best publishing path for you
Camille coaches Lesa, a novelist who’s considering publishing with a hybrid publisher (that is, a company that combines aspects of traditional publishing and self-publishing, and charges the author to publish their book). They cover:
- What to consider when choosing a publisher
- Why being intentional can help you avoid overwhelm and simplify your publishing process
- How to pitch your book to book clubs and land other book-related speaking engagements
- Questions to ask a potential hybrid publisher, including:
> What are my deadlines for each step of the process (such as editing, copyediting and proofreading, design, and marketing)?
> How do you handle distribution and where will my novel be sold?
> What do you expect of me in terms of marketing?
> Beyond the publishing fee, will you ask me to make additional financial contributions (for example, for marketing endeavors)? If so, how much?
> What do you consider a “success” for the titles you publish, and which of your titles fit the bill?
Camille’s note: For more information on hybrid publishing, check out these posts on Jane Friedman’s excellent site:
https://www.janefriedman.com/what-is-a-hybrid-publisher/
https://www.janefriedman.com/everything-youve-always-wanted-to-know-hybrid-publishing/
37. How to become a career author
On the eve of the publication of her tenth book, Good for You, Camille shares ten things she's learned about making a living as an author. She shares:
- The one question that transformed her writing and career
- The difference between optimism and toxic positivity—and how to harness the former without repressing negative emotions
- The reason “thicker skin” is overrated (plus better ways to protect your mental health)
- Why choosing yourself ups the odds you’ll be chosen by readers … and yes, publishing gatekeepers
If you're ready to take your career as an author to the next level, apply to the Career Author Mastermind today. Applications are on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit evenbetter.co/careerauthors to apply.
To learn more about Good for You, visit https://camillepagan.com/books/good-for-you/
36. How to create better writing habits
Camille coaches Jessica, a writer who’s trying to stop editing as she drafts so she can finish her novel faster. We cover:
- The importance of identifying with the habit you’re trying to create
- The real reason we self-sabotage—and how to stop
- Creating flow by separating editing and writing time
- Using your “why” to follow through when you feel stuck
35. How to turn a good idea into a great book
Camille coaches Maggie, a journalist who’s considering writing a book about a topic she recently explored in a set of essays that went viral. They cover:
- A simple reframe that allows you to speak with expertise when you don’t identify as an expert
- Why writing a non-fiction book proposal is crucial (even if you plan to self-publish)
- Simple ideas for building the kind of platform that makes publishers more likely to buy your book
- How to feel comfortable sharing your successes with decision-makers
34. How to publish your first novel
Camille chats with her friend and former coaching client Annie Cathryn (anniecathryn.com), whose debut novel, The Friendship Breakup, is out today. They cover:
- How to know when you’ve found “the one” (that is, your ideal literary agent)
- Effective strategies for preparing for your first book launch
- How to invest in your career—without blowing your budget
- Authentic ways to connect with readers and authors and create a supportive network