Let’s dive straight in, shall we?
- Research: spend some time looking at what’s already been written. Think about how you can build on what’s out there in your own way and consider your USP so that your book stands out from the rest.
- Brainstorm: once your research is done, it’s time to download your ideas. Grab a big piece of paper and write “MY AWESOME BOOK” in the middle, circle it, and write down every teeny tiny idea that sparks. Keep going until your brain is completely empty of ideas.
- Time: without carving out the all-important time in your diary, writing your book will just be a pipe dream. So, block out slots in your diary, give up TV for a while, hide from the world for a couple of weeks if you have to, just make sure you have some quality time to get that first draft ready.
- Structure Your Brainstorm: work on your brainstorm time. Get some coloured pens and start making a key on your first big brainstorm sheet. Use different titles to make a key, such as, ***Structure, Chapters, Book Title, Vision, Content, etc.
- Pull it Altogether: once you’ve got that done, it’s time to create mini-brainstorm sheets. Say you’ve got 5 different colours on your sheet (see ***), take 5 sheets of paper and transfer that info onto your single sheets. And then get brainstorming again. Once you’ve finished step 5, you’ll have so much information that pulling it altogether will be a breeze.
- Finding your Formula: now you’ve got to start thinking about your word count. Say your book is going to be around 30,000 words, and you know you’ve got 10 chapters plus the extras (Introduction, Conclusion, Connect with the Author, Foreword, etc), you can whittle down the target length for each chapter. Once you know this, you can set yourself a daily, weekly, monthly target to make sure you keep on writing.
- A Proof and a Polish: time to start on the editing and proofreading process. If you really can’t face it then outsource this step. But please don’t proofread half-heartedly or it will detract from the fabulous content of your book.
Does it feel a little easier now?
I hope so.
Remember, I’m always here to ask any questions.
Michelle x
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