Your Book Awaits

Have you ever felt that little voice whispering that you might have a book in you? Transforming that spark of an idea into a fully fledged book might feel exciting, terrifying, and daunting. But guess what? It is achievable. I know! And the only way you get to find out what will happen by writing your book is by writing it.

My book journey has been so satisfying, and I feel strongly about supporting others who are nurturing a book dream. So I led a workshop on book-writing to share some of what I’ve learned! A summary is below or you can listen to an edited version of the full session here:

Crafting Your Initial Vision

Begin your book by creating a vision of it. Write out what your book will be about and who it will be for. What impact do you wish your book to make? This doesn’t mean carving it into stone—these are more like guiding stars. Jot down some ideas that resonate. Maybe you’re writing a whimsical adventure for young readers, a deeply personal memoir, or a nonfiction guide based on your expertise. Specifically imagine who you are writing to and for (even if it’s you!). This gives you a model to align with, but don’t be afraid to pivot as your journey evolves.

The Power of Belief

Belief is the backbone of your writing journey. It’s easy to get tangled up in self-doubt, wondering, "Am I really cut out for this?" Recognize critical thoughts as interpretations rather than facts. Transform "I’m not a good writer" into "I’m learning to be a great writer." Embrace the possibility that you can craft something incredible. Plant this belief in your mind and water it regularly with encouragement.

Committing to Your Dream

Vision and belief lay the groundwork, but commitment is what creates a book. Choose to write and that you will continue until it’s done. Commit to the process by deciding that your book is more important than the detours that come your way. Commitment is about setting priorities and aligning your actions with your dream of finishing that book. You say “yes” to your book by saying “no” to other activities that would otherwise draw your time and attention.

Creating Your Writing Roadmap

Diving in without a plan can feel overwhelming. Break your project into manageable pieces. Are you a plotter—someone who maps out each chapter—or a pantser—someone who writes from the seat of their pants? It’s fine to mix both approaches based on what feels right at the moment (that’s what I do!).

In addition to planning what you’ll write, make a plan for how you’ll write. When will you actually work on the book? Get it in your calendar! And don’t forget the importance of environment. Where do you do your best writing? For me, a warm coffee shop always beats writing from home. Try different settings until you strike gold. Establish rituals that align with a productive writing mindset, whether it’s a mug of steaming coffee or a pre-writing meditation session.

From Planning to Words on a Page

With your roadmap laid out, it’s time to get those words flowing. Don’t stress if it doesn't come out perfect at first—just get words down. Let your initial vision to guide you, but also give yourself permission to play with new ideas. The first draft is all about finding your rhythm. Forget perfection for now; just let your creativity dance across the page, and be open to pivoting from your original plan when a new direction inspires you.

Flexibility and Tackling Blocks

Notice when you hit a wall—whether it's boredom, fear, or endless distractions. Sometimes, fear is disguised as busyness. When fear takes the wheel, try writing as if no one else will ever read it. Remove the pressure of judgment and focus on the joy of creation.

For accountability and companionship, link up with other writers. Consider joining a writer’s group or setting specific goals with writing buddies. Groups like Shut Up and Write provide support and community that can foster productive writing sessions.

The "morning pages" technique from The Artist’s Way might help, too. It's all about clearing the mental cobwebs with free writing—no critics allowed. Let your stream of consciousness flow, and marvel at how this practice unshackles your creative instincts.

Bringing It All Together

When you complete your first draft, celebrate! It’s a monumental step. The next phase is revising and refining. Take a break, then revisit your pages with fresh eyes.

Seek feedback from those who get you and your work. Constructive criticism from people who believe in your vision can be instrumental in refining your manuscript. Whether through editors or fellow writers, get insights that elevate your work. If particular advice doesn’t resonate for you, trust your gut and leave it behind, while being open to suggestions that do align with your vision.

Ultimately, trust your instincts and embrace what makes your book stand out. It won’t appeal to everyone, and that's okay. Your focus is to touch those it’s meant for, creating ripples with your words.

Embracing the Journey

Throughout your journey, hold onto one guiding truth: if you write something that excites and inspires you, there's a good chance it will have the same effect on others. Whether your audience is small or large, writing from the heart ensures your work will find a home.

Remember, the path to completing a book is filled with ups and downs, but by maintaining vision, belief, and commitment, you can make it happen. Whether you’re scribbling notes on napkins or crafting chapters at your favorite café, keep embracing the writing adventure.

Lean into your fears, cherish the creative process, and let your story take flight. You've got a story worth telling, and there's an audience waiting to read it. Keep writing, keep dreaming, and most importantly, enjoy the ride!

Resources

Here are some of my favorite books about writing. Each has made a clear impact, helping me write with more freedom, enjoyment, presence, and confidence. I return to them regularly for guidance and inspiration.

The Gifts of Writing: Exploring the Mystery, Magic, and Wonder of the Creative Process by Hope Koppelman

The Artists Way by Julia Cameron

Writing Down the Bones: Freeing the Writer Within by Natalie Goldberg

On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King

Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert.