Finding the motivation, time and energy to write and publish your book can be daunting, even for the most disciplined writer. The first step is to prioritize your time and manage competing priorities. Irrespective of whether you plan to write a non-fiction book, novel or online editorial to grow your brand identity, you need to plan ahead by creating several sequential easy-to-accomplish objectives and devise a comfortable work-life balance. Getting started on any writing project isn’t as easy as some make out.
Idea Generation
Search your mind for ideas you’ve harbored over a long period of time and never got around to developing. Perhaps these ideas have gained prominence over time and would appeal to a targeted readership. While the subject and message conveyed through the book is important, it is equally important to know how to organize and write a manuscript that meets your readers’ expectations.
Word Count
Bear in mind a book manuscript should comprise between 80,000-100,000 words. Your biggest worry might be that you won’t have enough to say. In most cases the opposite is true. You will find that you have too much to say. It’s not about creating volume content; remember every word must be relevant. Set aside at least an hour a day to write your manuscript. The first step involves outlining your idea through mind-mapping to give your manuscript structure and flow.
Important Questions
Answer questions like “Who are you writing this book for?; What is the profile of your target audience? What is the purpose of this book? Why should people read this book?” Answers to these questions will map out the journey of how the content must be developed. It also makes it easier to stick with your goal of developing the manuscript.
Basics First
Write the beginning sentence and last sentence to each chapter. Next, write down your chapter titles; these may change as you develop your manuscript. Make a list of the relevant aspects that you will elaborate on under each chapter heading, and organize the list in the order in which you will write. The time to start writing your first draft has finally arrived.
Create a routine
Write for five minutes. You should produce about 200 typewritten words. Carry a note book and pencil with you; jot down ideas for the book. Write as if you are talking, telling your story to a friend. Listen intently to what people complain about. Work appropriate solutions into your book.
Contact Theresa [ecottage@gmail.com] for writing, editing and self-publishing services. See our writing services.
About Theresa
I’m a published author of four business books and have written a number of self-study tutorials [creative writing; editing and proofreading; business writing; and self-publishing] and an eBook [Workplace Harmony]. I am an experienced writer, editor and publisher. 
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