Before I started writing my book, “Lead Yourself to Financial Success,” I had no knowledge of the book writing process. The only thing I knew was this: I had a wealth of knowledge and great ideas I wanted to share with people on a huge platform.
To make this happen I had to read books on the process and learn the ins and outs of writing a book and publishing.
I assumed it would be overwhelming and most of my time was already consumed tending to the affairs of my company, Phenomenal Staffing. So, I decided to shorten the learning curve by networking with others who had already been in my shoes; people who have successfully published their own work.
Here are three key lessons I implore you to consider when you’re ready to share your ideas with the masses.
1. Don’t be intimidated.
There are a lot of writing processes that will make you think twice about writing your own book. Relax and remember there are thousands of authors on the planet who probably didn’t know everything their first time around either.
Word count is not an issue.
If you can write over 5,000 words you have yourself a short story. You can branch out and create a series of books later if you choose. Microsoft Word offers free manuscript templates you can use to get started. The word count will be displayed at the bottom of the document so you can keep track.
Formatting is no longer a fear.
Amazon has a program that formats your manuscript for you. No more worrying about indents and spacing. Plus Microsoft Word manuscript program also formats the book as well.
Just start writing.
Taking action is the biggest deterrent in writing a book. The thought process does not have to take years. If you feel your story is important enough to share, then start sharing it.
Once you take the main intimidation factors out the way you can concentrate on the content.
2. Create a book launch timeline.
Make sure you set a timeline of when you want your book to be finished and in the hands of other people. When you have a set date in place you will be more prone to finishing your project because you will be on the clock as opposed to just writing with no official timeline in mind.
3. Consider self publishing.
If the fear of presenting your work to a big publisher scares you, don’t worry —it’s 2015. You can self publish your book at a minimal (or no) cost. If you go the self-publishing route there are a few things to keep in mind.
Know and complete the editorial process.
You will have to make sure your book is not only formatted, sited, and copyrighted, (ISBN numbers etc), you will also have to find and hire a book editor.
If you don’t think you have the eye to proofread your book for mistakes, have a have a professional editor do it for you. There are tons of great editors out there available for freelance and contract work. Make sure you choose the right one for your genre and read samples of their work.
“Keep in mind that the entire editorial process may be long, extending from before the completion of the manuscript through proofreading of the final page proofs. Self-publishers need to understand the whole process so they can hire people with the specific expertise needed to complete their project (The Book Designer).”
Marketing is now your job.
Publishers usually handle this portion because they know the importance of having your book shared with a broader audience. Don’t worry, you won’t have to start any graduate courses on marketing. Just read Your Epic Book Launch. It is filled with tons of information on book publishing and marketing.
Self-motivation is essential.
You won’t have a publisher breathing down your neck asking when you are going to finish your book, so you will need to motivate yourself. In my article I wrote, 20 Shocking difference in the Daily habits of the Rich and Poor, I emphasize the importance of this and it’s illustrated by the fact that roughly 80% of the wealthy focus on one goal and stick to that goal until it’s finished.
Do you think this article can help you start writing your book or even finish the book you already started? Have more tips or questions on the process? Let me know your thoughts in the comment section below. Lets discuss!
This article has been edited and condensed.
Jason Taylor is the founder and Director of Operations at Phenomenal Staffing. Jason is also a former enlisted member of the United States Air Force and former professional athlete. Have a question about IT contractors or how staffing companies can make your business better? Visit phenomenalstaffing.com and sign up for a free consulting session. Connect with @PhenomStaffing on Twitter.
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