How to Avoid The Burnout Trap Most Children’s Book Authors Miss

Burnout doesn’t happen because authors lack passion; it happens when there’s no creative system to support growth.Children’s book illustrator and author Kaelen Felix shares how she manages a growing series, a companion coloring book, and future projects without burning out. She breaks down the creative systems, intentional workflows, and mindset shifts that help her stay grounded, focused, and consistent.We talk about managing creative energy, maintaining illustration cohesion, organizing multiple projects, working intentionally with publishers, and building confidence as both an author and illustrator.This conversation is perfect for children’s book authors, illustrators, and indie creators who want to grow sustainably, without overwhelm, exhaustion, or losing their love for creating.Learn more about Kaelen: https://www.kaelenfelix.com/aboutSubscribe so you don't miss the full episode on February 12th!TIME STAMPS: 00:00 – Why some children’s book series grow beyond one book01:18 – What inspired the Wings and Whispers companion coloring book02:43 – Coloring book vs second book: which came first and why03:28 – Using original book illustrations to maintain cohesion04:57 – Choosing which illustrations belong in a coloring book06:13 – Doing your own layouts as an author-illustrator09:43 – Creative systems: managing multiple projects without burnout12:20 – How mentors and professors shaped her illustration style15:25 – Expanding into illustration work for other children's book authors (Crabby Abbey)19:39 – Writing tips for authors & illustrators: confidence, contracts, and consistency_______________________________________________________I’m JoAnn Dickinson, an award-winning children’s book author who has successfully self-published 15 books in just 4 years, and now I’m sharing everything I’ve learned along the way. This channel is dedicated to helping aspiring children’s book authors, illustrators, and indie publishers bring their stories to life through real conversations about writing, self-publishing, marketing children’s books, and everything in between. Connect & Explore:🌐 Website: https://joannmdickinsonauthor.com🔗 All Links: https://linktr.ee/joannmdickinsonauthor🎧 Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7mjhykL1T0fAuSJzcw6Ti#childrensbookauthor #selfpublishing #authortube #writingtips