The big headache that we authors all face when we set out on the path to write a book is this: “Is my idea good enough?”
You need a Big Audacious Book Idea (I call that a BABI) to give you the confidence and clarity to get started AND keep going through the process of writing and publishing your book.
But let’s debunk 3 BIG myths about book ideas as you chart your path to your Big Audacious Book Idea.
- One Idea is King
You’ve accumulated a wealth of insights over time and face the big temptation to include them ALL in your book. While depth is essential, remember this: your book needs one standout idea – the King – an idea your readers can’t forget.
Your King is the key to making your book “Sticky” – memorable, understandable, and impactful (as Chip and Dan Heath write in their book “Made to Stick”)
The hidden truth here is that your KING idea doesn’t have to be entirely original. After all, even Einstein acknowledges his ideas “stood on giant’s shoulders. However, you do need a unique perspective on your KING idea. That is what matters. - “I Already Know What” is Queen
If One idea is King, then “I already know that” is Queen. You’d think that if your reader is familiar with some of your ideas, your book is a failure.
Surprisingly, when readers encounter familiar ideas in your book, they feel validated. They think to themselves, “I’ve always thought that,” but now [you, dear author] confirmed it. This validation fosters engagement.
The secret sauce of making Queen ideas zing lies in adding a little extra – combine a familiar idea with your unique insights and case studies. This combination not only validates but also fascinates your readers and deepens their understanding. - ‘Action’ Makes Your Army Invincible!
Now, you have the King and Queen of content: a compelling idea and rich case studies. But what makes your book irresistible? What catapults your authority to stratospheric heights?
It’s action steps.
Readers crave practical guidance. After understanding the “what” and “why” of your ideas, they yearn for the “how.” Demonstrating how to apply your ideas is the cornerstone of transforming your book into an authority-building masterpiece, propelling you towards the authority you deserve.
The beauty is that there are countless ways to show readers how to take action, ranging from small steps like reflection and journaling to substantial strategies, such as following a well-defined framework (which I can assist you in creating).