Watch the episode: https://youtu.be/oXxhL4ggRe8 

Today’s episode is unscripted and honest. Let’s talk about validation—the craving to be seen, heard, recognized—and why the quiet days can shake you the most.

Social media validation

Likes, comments, followers, shares—it’s easy to measure yourself by the scoreboard. For authors, social can feel like the only proof anyone’s listening.

Fake vs. real validation

Validation is literally for sale: followers, likes, comments. On paper it “looks” like momentum—but it’s hollow.

Real validation is a message that says, “I read your book. Your words mattered.” You can’t buy that.

Sales validation

Numbers don’t always match effort. Seeing zero sales on Amazon while others post hundreds hurts. That sting is real—and it doesn’t define your worth or the value of your work.

Platform validation (my actual numbers)

49 YouTube subscribers (thank you 🙏)

~300 TikTok followers

~2,200 combined Facebook + Instagram

1,900 LinkedIn connections

7 Spotify followers

5 Substack subscribers

Not complaint—just context. Doubt creeps in when others “blow up,” but that’s not the measure of purpose.

My truth

First: validate yourself.

I’m not giving up. My books are authentic. They won’t be everyone’s cup of tea—and that’s okay. I’m here to build something real with longevity, purpose, and intention. Some days are struggle days. Sharing this is part of choosing to keep going.

A quick reset you can try

Pick one metric you control (e.g., pages written, pitches sent, emails to readers).

Choose one visibility action for 7 days (e.g., 1 pitch/day, 1 reel/day, 1 DM to a librarian).

Celebrate consistency for a week—outcomes will follow the systems.

Work with me / stay connected

Be a guest on The Author’s Mic™ (no fees): https://brightheadedpublishing.com/be-a-guest 

Join our book club – Indie Reader Society: https://bookclubs.com/the-indie-reader-society/join/ 

Download my free 44-page guide – So You Wanna Write a Book: https://brightheadedpublishing.com 

Signed copies + goodies – You Sound White & Weight For It: https://brightheadedpublishing.com 

Target keywords: validation for indie authors, social media validation, sales validation, platform growth for authors, writing mindset, The Author’s Mic.