If you’re anything like me, you sometimes need more than how-to guides and marketing tips—you need a dose of inspiration. That’s exactly why I recorded my latest episode of Indie Author Blueprint, where I share what struck me most from a recent interview between Jenna Bush Hager and bestselling author Kristin Hannah.1
I love how Kristin Hannah weaves heart and history into her novels, but I was even more inspired by her winding path to becoming a writer. Did you know she went to law school before writing her first book? Her story—and stories like Michael Crichton’s pivot from medicine to bestselling thrillers—reminded me that there’s no one “right” way to become an author. I myself started out in nursing! So if you ever feel behind, just remember: your path is valid, no matter what it looks like.
One of Kristin’s biggest lessons for me was her commitment to discipline and depth. She could easily crank out quick reads, but she pours herself into researching and crafting truly rich, meaningful stories instead. As indie authors, it’s easy to feel like we have to publish fast. But what if we focused instead on honing the craft—making every story (or nonfiction book!) the very best it can be? That’s how you build a body of work that matters.
Another thing that stuck with me was how surprised Kristin was by her own success. She never set out for bestseller lists or book signings with long lines. She simply wrote because she loved it. The recognition came later, and maybe that’s something we indie authors need to remember too. We can’t control viral moments or sales numbers, but we can control the heart we put into our books.
And perhaps my favorite lesson: staying in it for the long haul. Kristin’s debut novel came out in 1991, and she’s still writing, evolving, and dreaming of trying new genres. The publishing landscape changes fast, but perseverance and adaptability are always in style.
If you want to put these lessons in action, here’s what I challenge you to do this week:
Audit one piece of your writing—maybe a chapter or even a book blurb—and revise it with excellence in mind.
Revisit your ideal reader profile (or write one if you haven’t!). Is your current work really connecting with them, or are you chasing trends?
Redefine what “success” means for you right now. It might be finishing a draft, growing your list, or simply showing up consistently for your writing. Let that definition guide your next steps.
If any of this resonates, you’ll definitely want to hear more from the episode. I share more actionable steps and a few personal stories you might find encouraging. Listen to the episode and, as always, feel free to share the episode with another writer who’s in it for the long haul just like we are.
Let’s keep writing, keep growing, and stay true to who we are—one page at a time.
“‘The Nightingale’ Author Kristin Hannah on How She Went from Lawyer to Bestselling Author,” Open Book with Jenna podcast, March 20, 2025. Links:
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