We’ve all heard that success in writing is partly a matter of luck. And while that can feel frustratingly out of our control, there’s a bright side: some aspects of luck are within our grasp.
Jason Roberts’ idea of a ‘Luck Surface Area’ is a great starting point. It suggests that the more you do what you love and share it with others, the more chances you create for lucky breaks to happen. For indie authors, this concept is gold. You’re already out there taking risks and betting on yourself—so why not maximize those odds?
Here’s how you, as an indie author, can expand your own luck surface area:
1. Show Up and Do the Work Consistently
First things first, you’ve got to keep writing. The old cliché that you have to “be in it to win it” applies here. The more books, stories, and ideas you put out into the world, the more opportunities you create for your work to catch someone’s eye. This doesn’t mean you need to churn out novels at lightning speed, but it does mean setting a consistent writing practice and sticking to it.
Luck favors those who keep showing up. Writing regularly not only hones your skills but builds a body of work that gives readers more entry points into your stories.
2. Share Your Work and Your Journey
Writing isn’t just about putting words on paper—it’s about communicating ideas. So share those ideas. Not just in books, but in blog posts, newsletters, or on social media. Engage with readers and fellow writers. If you’ve figured out a self-publishing trick, share it. If you’re stuck on a scene, talk about it.
When you share your journey, you make connections. And those connections can lead to collaboration, visibility, and, yes, luck. Sometimes the simple act of telling people what you’re working on opens doors you didn’t even know were there.
3. Embrace Community
Writing might seem like a solitary activity, but success isn’t achieved in a vacuum. Indie authors thrive in supportive communities, whether it’s through writing groups, genre-specific circles, or critique partners. If you’re an introverted writer, that might feel intimidating at first. But don’t worry—community doesn’t mean oversharing or constant socializing. It’s about finding the right people who lift you up when you need it most.
Community introduces serendipity into your writing life. You might stumble into your perfect beta reader or a fellow author who connects you with the right editor. Even a casual conversation can spark a collaboration or a new idea for your next series.
4. Take Small, Bold Risks
In indie publishing, luck sometimes comes down to taking the right risks. Whether it’s experimenting with a new marketing strategy, releasing that genre-bending novella, or submitting to a big contest, bold moves create new possibilities. Sometimes you’ll win big, and sometimes you won’t. But every step forward adds to your journey and expands your surface area for luck to find you.
5. Be Open to Unconventional Paths
One of the best parts of being an indie author is the freedom to explore unconventional paths. Success in this field doesn’t follow a cookie-cutter route, so be open to exploring side projects, collaborations, or unconventional marketing tactics. Keep an eye out for opportunities that align with your values and goals, even if they don’t fit neatly into a traditional publishing mold.
Takeaway: Create the Conditions for Luck to Happen
When it comes to success, luck is rarely just random. Indie authors can create the right conditions for luck to flourish by showing up consistently, sharing their journey, finding their tribe, taking risks, and staying open to the unexpected.
What about you? How are you increasing your luck surface area in your writing career? Drop a comment below, and let’s chat!
