Whenever I ask would-be authors what stops them from writing a business book, most say it’s the time commitment. Excuse? Nah, it’s a legitimate concern about writing a book.
Most of us have been trained to believe that it takes years to write a book.
I work with professional speakers, trainers and coaches with busy schedules or multiple commitments. So, when I suggest you can get from brain to book in 90 days, the intensity seems overwhelming. Most prospective clients ask if they must clear their calendars to achieve the goal.
Answer is no. I have 50-plus client books on my shelf to show it can be done. Here are five of the strategies we use together to make writing a book in 90 days doable.
- Take it step-by-step: Whether it’s my approach or your own, structure your book-writing process. Set a deadline, such as 90 days. Break it into manageable milestones, such as deciding on a book outline, and then writing a chapter a week. Start each chapter with a plan, then expand.
- Streamline the process: I used some techniques in my program to get you quickly to the first draft (which always needs work) so that you can spend more time polishing to make your book brilliant.
- Accountability and support: Writing is a team sport (don’t believe the myth of the writer in the garret). That’s a big part of why people engage a book coach. Start a writing group or ask a fellow author to keep you accountable and provide consistent motivation to keep you on track and committed to your book.
- Celebrate the milestones: When you decide on your book outline, share your achievement with your writers’ group, coach, or friends. When you finish a chapter, put it in a new folder. Watch the chapters in there grow. Gift yourself a neck massage or a bottle of champers when you hit a milestone.
- Get unstuck: Even experienced authors get stuck or lose focus or direction. Ask a coach or colleague to help you identify and address specific fears or concerns that may be hindering your commitment. When you overcome these obstacles, you will move forward with more and more confidence.
Writing a book is a high upfront investment of time and effort with a long-tail return. One great book can make your career.