1. Authors are recognized as experts by virtue of having a book with their name on the cover
   
2. The media loves authors (i.e. experts) and uses them often, on all levels
   
3. Being an author improves your chances of getting paid speaking engagements
   
4. While you may not become a millionaire from writing a book, you can certainly improve your chances of increasing your income
   
5. When you go to your high school reunion, you can finally shove your book under the noses of all who snubbed you in your teenage years
   
6. If you ever felt that you weren't 'smart enough', writing a book will certainly go a long way in curing that.
   
7. Being an author gives you a stronger sense of self-esteem
   
8. Your book will open doors and create business opportunities you wouldn't have received without it
   
9. Having a book gives you a platform for teaching workshops and seminars
   
10. Being an author is a great icebreaker at cocktail parties. (Hint: authors are often considered VIPs or celebrities! It's true!)

Arielle Ford is a world renowned publicist credited with launching the careers of Deepak Chopra and more than a dozen other New York Times best selling authors in the field of self help, spirituality and personal growth. To learn more, go to www.EverythingYouShouldKnow.com to sign up for Arielle's "Best Seller Strategies" newsletter and get a free copy of Arielle's guide, "Everything You Should Know About Marketing Yourself Positively & Powerfully On a Budget" free of charge.