3 Things to think about before you decide to become an author and write your 1st non-fiction book

Are you ready to write your first nonfiction book but worried about making mistakes and wasting precious time? Well, you're not alone! I see you, fellow entrepreneurs who have been longing to write your book but feel overwhelmed and unsure where to begin.

In this article, I'll share valuable tips to help you embark on the journey of becoming a published author.

Let's acknowledge that writing a nonfiction book is no small feat. It requires careful consideration of the time and financial investment needed to bring your book to life. If you're juggling a full-time job or running a busy practice, it's crucial to recognize that dedicating sufficient time to your book is essential.

First thing....Start with your WHY! Have you ever been asked to articulate your "why"? The question that challenges us to dig deep and uncover our true motivations. It can be frustrating, especially when we're unsure of the importance of what we're pursuing. Personally, I used to despise this question. However, I realized that  the projects I was chasing weren't truly aligned with what I was passionate about. Consequently, my "why" lacked the strength it needed. If you're a multi-passionate entrepreneur like me, you may relate to constantly chasing new ideas without fully committing. If your "why" isn't compelling enough, it might be a sign that the timing isn't right to write your nonfiction book... yet.

Secondly...and here comes the tricky part—what on earth are you going to write about? Don't worry; you're not alone in this struggle. Many aspiring writers, including entrepreneurs, have found themselves in the same boat, grappling with the challenge of choosing the perfect book idea.  This is particularly hard when you're in a genre that already has an abundance of messages.  You have to firstly figure out of all the ideas that have 'popped' into your head, which one resonates with you the most? Start by getting very clear, what stories or knowledge that you own and want to share with the world?  Remember the best writing comes from the heart and can be raw and authentic and that's what your ideal reader wants to read!  Are you getting excited now?  Jot down every idea you might have.  Put them all in your notes section in your phone.  I send myself messages with Voxer so I don't forget an idea or a supporting message when I'm on the go and aren't sitting right in front of my computer.  

Thirdly...whose going to read your book?  A question many new writers have asked.  I tell them the same thing every time.  You must do your research!  It's a vital step in the writing journey for your non-fiction book.  Who is that reader that will resonate deeply with the message of your book?  Who will benefit from the knowledge, inspiration or the fun entertainment it offers?  What are they currently reading? Do they read non-fiction already?  Read testimonials from books that are similar to your genre.  I love this one, go onto Amazon and search books similar to your genre.  You uncover so much juicy intel to what your ideal reader likes and dislikes.  Put your detective hat on and go searching.  Once you have all this it's easy to create a reader avatar and that's who you're writing for.  

So as I leave you today...you may have realized that writing a nonfiction book is no small feat. It requires dedication, self-reflection, and a deep understanding of your purpose. It's natural to have moments of gentle doubt along the way, questioning whether you have what it takes to bring your vision to life.  But what are you leaving on the table if you don't write your book.  The idea will continue to niggle away at you until once again you get to this same place...investing in yourself and your writing dreams is a choice rooted in self-belief and a commitment to growth.  I am always here to help you on writing journey - one that leads you to become the author you've always aspired to be!! 

Until next time....keep writing!

Karen