Hi, I’m Kelly Morgan — indie author, indie publisher, and host of BTA Fridays – Breaking the Algorithm™.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re shouting into the void when you promote your book online, you’re not alone. Many indie authors feel the same way: the algorithm buries your posts, ads are expensive, and the “hope someone scrolls by” strategy rarely works.

That’s why I created something different: The 12x12 Author Challenge.

What Is the 12x12 Author Challenge?

The idea is simple:

👉 Make 12 meaningful new connections in the next 12 weeks.

That’s it. One new connection per week.

And here’s the best part — these connections don’t need to be “fancy” or come with big titles. A meaningful connection is anyone who engages with you authentically:

Another indie author

A passionate reader

A blogger or podcaster

A local bookstore owner

Or even someone you meet in your own community

If the connection is real, it counts.

Why Connections Matter More Than Algorithms

Here’s the truth: algorithms are designed to reward engagement. If no one sees your post, it’s not because you’re not talented — it’s because the system is built that way.

But when you focus on connections over clicks, you create something more powerful:

People who remember you

Readers who talk about your book

Authors who collaborate and cross-promote

Communities that grow naturally

Instead of relying on ads or paid boosts, you’re building a network that lasts.

How to Start the 12x12 Challenge

Commit to 12 Weeks – One connection per week. Easy and doable.

Write Down Your List – Keep track of each person you connect with.

Start with Me – Yes, seriously. If you’re reading this, I’ll be your first connection. Let’s hold each other accountable.

Engage Authentically – Comment on their posts, share ideas, or even just check in with encouragement.

Keep It Real – No scripts, no forced networking. This is about genuine relationships.

Real Connections = Real Growth

Indie publishing is not about chasing likes. It’s about creating longevity, visibility, and community. By the end of the challenge, you won’t just have a bigger network — you’ll have a stronger foundation for your author journey.

And here’s the secret: once you’ve done 12, you’ll realize you can keep going. The 12x12 Challenge isn’t just a project — it’s a mindset shift away from chasing algorithms and toward building relationships.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been struggling to find traction as an indie author, give the 12x12 Author Challenge a try. In just three months, you can shift from frustration to connection, from algorithms to authentic community.

Remember: one new meaningful connection per week. That’s all it takes.

Stay Connected with Bright Headed Publishing

✨ Join me every Friday for BTA Fridays – Breaking the Algorithm™

✨ Be a guest on The Author’s Mic™: brightheadedpublishing.com/be-a-guest 

✨ Pitch or join the Indie Reader Society: bookclubs.com/the-indie-reader-society/join 

✨ Explore resources at: br ightheadedpublishing.com

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