You know you want to write a book. You’ve thought about it countless times.
In fact, you’ve pictured yourself tucked away in your sacred space, writing away with soft music in the background. You’ve even conjured up a feeling to go with the scene. Some people call it Bliss. Others, “being in the zone.”
It’s fun to image yourself toiling away at something that so very few accomplish. But how do you know if you’re ready to write a book?
Give yourself one point for each of the following statements you agree with.
1. You know what you want to say and why
To move readers and compel them to act, you should first know how you want them to feel after they’ve read your book. Let’s say you want to write a:
· Memoir; readers will have a new or little-known viewpoint on working as a doctor in war camps.
· Self-help book; readers will learn new ways to solve family arguments or how to re-enter the dating world after a divorce.
· Business book; readers will have a fresh outlook on how to create an environment of inclusion.
If you have a vision for how your book can change readers, you’re on your way.
2. There’s a proven audience
Whether you want to add your voice to a trendy topic, or bring a topic to the limelight, there must be an established market for your book to succeed.
How do you know what sells? Check Amazon for similar books. Ask your colleagues and network if they’d be interested in your book. Browse online forums to gain insight about your overarching topic.
· A trendy topic will sell in the short-term, but a relevant, evergreen topic that offers a new perspective or some new ideas or innovations can have a greater impact in the long-run.
· Are there competing books that offer a similar message or a different opinion? Chances are, there’s some room for your book on the shelf.
If your subject matter is timely and relevant, there’s already and audience waiting for it.
3. Know that it’s hard
Writing is work and you must be able to:
· Work in isolation because writers don’t work in groups, but rather, over recurring sessions.
· Be disciplined enough to set up a writing schedule so you’ll stay focused and on track.
· Understand that the bulk of marketing will fall into your lap, whether you self-publish, or seek a traditional deal.
Are you easily discouraged? Can you ignore haters? Are you willing to persevere and work through whatever life throws your way?
If the idea of long hours spent writing, editing, and revising your own words doesn’t put you off, you have the fortitude to push through and cross the finish line.
4. It’s not about the money
Many aspiring authors daydream about selling millions of copies of their first book. But for you, it’s about the process of getting it done and getting it off your conscience and into your readers’ hands and hearts.
After all, writing a book will change your life. And though the idea seems scary, you’re mostly hopeful and excited to hop on the journey, and you can already see yourself holding your finished book in your hands.
If your book idea keeps you awake at night and you daydream about the lives your book will change, you already have an author’s mindset.
If you have at least 3/4, you’re ready to write your book. The next step is to make sure your expectations are in check so you can make the writing process as painless and stress-free as possible.