It’s one of the most coveted entrepreneurial superlatives: Bestselling Author. It proves that not only did you actually write a book, but people bought it too. You’re winning at writing!
 
If you are a bestselling author, before I continue with my mini-rant let me reassure you – I’m one too. We’re both in the club. I’m also an “Amazon #1 bestselling author” as are most of my clients.
 
So what?
 
Does it seem like the club is getting a little crowded lately? Have you noticed that whenever a speaker or interview guest is introduced, 9 out of 10 times the phrase “bestselling author” is somehow involved? How special does that feel? It’s like being a sparkling jewel – in a giant swimming pool full of sparkling jewels.
 
More importantly though – what does the label “bestselling author” mean?
 
You’ll put it on your bio but will you include it in your obituary? I’m not trying to be morbid. I’m being real. Rip the “bestselling author” tag out of your bio and answer these questions:
 

• Why did you write your book?
• Was it for the label or for the longevity?
• Was it for the marketing shout out or to make a difference?

 
And in case my fellow Amazon bestselling authors were wondering, the New York Times pool is filling up too. Because swimming pools are not designed to remain empty. They all eventually fill up.
 
It’s crowded out there. Which means if you’re writing a book to stand out and make a difference, you’d better damn well aim higher than a marketing label. Your readers might be enthralled with your bestselling author status – for about 15 minutes. It’s up to your work to hold their attention after that first 15 minutes of fame. Marketing labels don’t have nearly the staying power of quality.
 
Do you think readers will recommend your book to their friends solely because because you’re a bestselling author? What other reasons can you give them to talk about you?