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
Join the Write.Publish.Sell Facebook Group
