Squash the writing overwhelm! - WRITE | PUBLISH | SELL

May 2, 2017 | Write

Squash the writing overwhelm!

Do you want to write a book but find yourself overwhelmed at where to start?

Perhaps you have started writing, but are stumped with #allthethings you need to do to publish and market your book?

I hear you! I was there too. In fact, every time I start a new project, I resort to going back through all of my steps to make sure I get a great start with the book.

I hear this question all of the time:

I have an idea for a book, but I don’t know what to do next.

I call this phase of the process the IDEATION phase.

Honestly, you want to get this part right to ensure you’re organized for what’s coming next. Because there is a LOT coming when you decide to write and publish a book.

In the ideation phase, ask yourself the following questions:

1: Should I even write a book?

Great question. Should you?

Three reasons people write a book:

  • Passion project – you have something you are passionate about sharing
  • Story you need to share – fiction book, event in your life, your memoir
  • You want to grow your influence and business

Three reasons people get stuck from moving forward

  • Fear – what if no one buys my book? What if there are mistakes in my book? What if I get bad reviews? There are so many fears.
  • Mindset issues – based on fear, not feeling like you’re good enough, imposter syndrome
  • Not setting goals and sticking to them (no accountability)

How to overcome these fears:

  • Build a support system
  • Set up a launch team to encourage you
  • Use beta readers to help you identify holes, issues, and other potential problems in your draft
  • Hire professionals – editors, cover designers, interior layout professionals

2. How do I deal with the overwhelm?!

There are so many details to writing a book. ISBNs, LCNs, ARCs, Copyrighting… so many things.

  • Participate in groups – Join our free group Write.Publish.Sell to collaborate with other writers and get answers to questions
  • Subscribe to good blogs/websites on publishing
  • Alli, IBPA, writers associations, The Creative Penn, The Writer Life, publishing websites- so much good information out there for you.
  • Join professional organizations, AllI, Bublish, IBPA
  • Take a course (check out my courses!)
  • Hire a professional

3. Do I have time?

Time is a big factor for so many people. All of us are busy.  If you want your book to happen, you will FIND the time. Accountability is key. Setting good goals – also so important. Having a good timeline and outline – crucial!

Tips for getting your book written:

  • Use the Pomodoro method – ie, set a timer for 20 minutes and just write!
  • Break up your writing throughout the day (30 mins in the morning, 30 mins on lunch break)
  • Set daily word count goals
  • Get an accountability partner and actually hold each other accountable!
  • Get rid of the distractions – no TV, as an example
  • If you enjoy exercising – which is one of the best ways to clear your mind and get ideas – take your phone and use the voice recorder option. Record your notes, messages, and ideas
  • If you really don’t have the time, hire a ghostwriter

 

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