Are You Treating Your Writing Like a Hobby or a Career? What the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Taught Me About Creative Discipline

$500 per game. That’s what the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders were earning—yet they trained like Olympic athletes. Forty hours a week. Total emotional and physical dedication. Why? Because passion always shows up, even when the paycheck doesn’t.

In this inspiring episode of The Write Podcast, multi-bestselling author and CEO of Serenade Publishing, Sarah Williams, explores what fiction writers can learn from elite performers—and why treating your writing like a serious career, not a hobby, can change everything.

Whether you're an aspiring author, a self-published novelist, or a traditionally published writer looking to grow your author business, this episode is a powerful reminder that creative discipline matters. You’ll discover how to adopt a professional writing mindset, even before you’ve landed a book deal or hit the bestseller list.

We’ll explore:
✅ Why writers should train like professionals—before they’re paid like one
✅ The mindset shift that turns a hobbyist into a career author
✅ How one book can become multiple income-generating assets
✅ Real ways to monetize your writing through translations, audiobooks, and special editions
✅ Why most writers quit—and how to make sure you’re not one of them
✅ Actionable tips to build momentum and stay motivated
✅ The truth about treating writing like a job—and why that’s your secret weapon

Sarah also shares behind-the-scenes stories from her own author journey, including how she’s earned long-term royalties from books published years ago, reached international audiences through foreign language rights, and boosted visibility with audiobooks narrated by Australian actor Myles Pollard (McLeod’s Daughters).

This episode is perfect for writers who want:

• Fiction writing tips from a pro

• Book publishing advice with a long-term lens

• Self-publishing strategies to build a sustainable author career

• Author marketing insights to increase book sales

• A real pep talk to stay the course and keep writing

If you’re serious about becoming a career author, this episode is your wake-up call—and your roadmap.

🎧 Listen now and learn how to build discipline, believe in your story, and turn one book into multiple income streams.

👉 Subscribe to The Write Podcast for more episodes packed with expert advice, interviews with authors and industry professionals, and monthly book club discussions. Visit serenadepublishing.com for free writing resources, books, and support for your writing journey.