As publishing of my latest book "Making Life Happen" approaches, I’m frequently asked (as I was at the same pre-publishing time of my other books):
“How do you actually write a book?”
Here are some of my tips, and insights into my writing process:
Firstly, you need to consider something you’re interested in or passionate about and sketch some topics on a page.
Try to set a word target. As a more experienced writer now, I find I can write a thousand words within a couple of hours. The content effort will be around seventy hours, once you know what you are writing, but I’ve found I have needed at least six months to elapse in order to produce something I’m proud of.
The writing landscape has changed since my first book, with many AI tools now available. My latest book contains many small stories from my life - AI is unable to replicate these stories, and my editor reminds me regularly that they engage the reader.
Upon finishing the first draft, the second half of my books is usually stronger than the first. I need to revisit the first half after my editor's initial pass to improve the text.
After your first book, you’ll have a team in place - being an editor, publisher, proofreader and artist for visuals (should you have these). You may also consider a public relations person; they will help amplify your book in various forums.
I’m yet to cover the costs of publishing a book with book sales. However, my speaking and workshop services, where concepts are applied from my books, have paid for the investment.
For testimonials, you can invite people to read the final manuscript. These are then added to the manuscript before printing.
I always self-publish, as it keeps the costs lower than a traditional publishing house, and I’ve been told you have more control.
Finally, my writing is a hobby. It’s something I enjoy, and this gets me through the time of doubt. Based on experience, it occurs around the 20-thousand-word mark.
It's somewhat hard to explain, but beyond all of the above, the sense of accomplishment is unique when you have a book you have written in your hands.
If you'd like to receive a PDF version of the draft manuscript for my new book "Making Life Happen", please message me.