Six tips to help you get started on writing your book!
- Star Antoinette
- Apr 4, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 29, 2024
If you’ve had dreams of writing a book of your own but haven’t been motivated to start or you’re overwhelmed by the task of actually having to sit down and write, then read on!
I know that writing a book can sound fun but then end up being a daunting task. When I was writing mine, I was faced with a mixture of procrastination, writer's block or just not knowing where to start... However, through some trials and errors in my writing process, I was able to push through to finish and publish my first book! So, I'm going to share with you six things that worked for me that I know will help you start on your book.
Tip 1: See the value in yourself
Mindset and perspective is everything. Before we set out to do anything we first make the decision in our mind.
So, my first tip is to change your mindset and stop thinking that no one cares what you have to say or offer. Do you know how far from the truth that is? There will always be someone out there who NEEDS what you have to give. You have to find the value in yourself first before others do.
Tip 2: Determine your WHY
I believe that when we have a "why" behind what we do, it makes us more motivated to start. Ask yourself why you want to write this book? Why do you want to share it with the world? Why is it important to you?
Tip 3: Set a deadline to finish
When I first started to write my now published book, I never had a goal on when I wanted the writing process to finish. Not having an end goal made me procrastinate more because I didn't have that extra motivation of a deadline. But, once I did, it was a game changer, it made me more diligent and consistent in my writing process.
P.s. The deadline can be flexible to change but as long as you have one, it gives you something to work towards.
Tip 4: Have daily goals
Setting daily goals are good practical steps to achieving your bigger goal. These goals do not have to be extreme but it can be writing for 20 minutes a day or one page a day. And, if you miss a day do not beat yourself up, just add more time or pages to the next. As long as you stick to your daily goals no matter how little they are, it will all add up in the end.
Tip 5: Make a framework or outline of your ideas
I highly recommend this tip because it makes the writing process A LOT easier and faster.
What is a framework?
So, a framework really boils down to this- it's a lighter outline, the "bones" of your book. A framework is when you take the main idea or theme of the book and divide it into three sections or components. It is the development of how the book will flow and will help you eliminate unnecessary ideas that don't fit your story.
The planning doesn't end there! After you do a quick framework, I would advise you to do an outline.
What is an outline?
An outline is a structured document that plans out the information or sequence of events that will be included in your story. This is the meat of your book and you can be as detailed as you like.
I like outlines because it helps your ideas flow even when you did not write them in order, which brings me to my last tip.
Tip 6: Don't write like an editor
Writing like an editor makes your writing process longer and can contribute to writers' block.
I think the tip's name speaks for itself when defining the meaning. Editors are in charge of making sure your sentence structures are right and free of grammatical errors. No one wants to do two jobs in one at the same time as writer and editor. Worrying about errors does not only slow you down, but can also block the creative flow of ideas. This is why we have rough drafts, so stop worrying and write freely! The editing can come after you are done.
Well that's it for now. I hope you found this encouraging and helpful! Happy writing loves 💕
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