It’s such an exciting time to think about publishing your very own book! It certainly was for me when I did my research and got it published in the Journal of American Academy of Business Cambridge (JAABC), as well as my books on success strategies and leadership. I am now busy writing a new inspirational book. Tons of Lush near Edible excitement especially when you receive the first printed copy! Woo-hoo!

I have been getting requests from interested first time writers and decided to share my personal thoughts on how to get the writing done in order to get published. To be honest I understand the Seriousness of this goal. So here are my own 9 steps to get you going.

9 Steps to Getting Your Book Done

1.Develop that mindset.
Goal achievement begins in the mind. Think of the saying “if you can imagine it you can achieve it”. So get your mind focused and begin the steps to achieve!

2. Write What You Know
Write what you know but be realistic. Don’t start learning a new skill in order to write a book. Use your own life experience. Do you have a skill? Are you an expert at something such as managing a business, a hobby, relationship experience, or other? Why not consider writing your biography ….your own life story. Whatever you decide, make sure it is important to you and something that you are passionate and knowledgeable about.

Write. Just Write

3. Write. Just Write.
Once you have decided what you’re going to write about, just write. It’s that simple. Write in your laptop, iPad, desktop, phone, or even the old fashion hard copy steno-book. Your choice. Just write.

4. Forget About Editing During The First Draft
When writing, forget about being perfect. Just focus on getting the information out of your head and on paper, or whatever means you choose to write in.

5. Take Breaks.
Go to places that inspire. Walk on the beach. Embrace nature. Do your favorite activity. Watch a movie. Read. Pamper yourself. Simply do something that inspires you. Something that ignites your passion… your writing

6. Capture Those Thoughts
Lest we forget, always keep a medium to capture those thoughts handy. It’s not uncommon to see something that inspires you even though you’re not in that ‘writing space’. Just get it written down… somehow. Missing that moment often leads to frustration when you get back to your space and can’t remember what you wanted to write.

7. Set Deadlines 
Defining a deadline for completion helps you achieve your goal. So for example if you decide to get published by year end, then set a plan to write everyday, every weekend, or plan a vacation getaway or retreat just to write. Plans are like road maps or GPS. There is a starting and an ending point. If you don’t know where you’re going, any road will take you there… and I dare say that  you may not like where you end up.

8. Don’t Be Hard On Yourself
Enjoy the ride. If you miss a day, two, three or more, don’t get stuck. Just get back on track and write.

9. Don’t Quit
Achieving a goal has never been easy. Be Aware. Keep the momentum going. Cry if you must at times but keep going. If it will help, get an accountability partner or coach who will help you achieve your goal.

So there you have it . 9 Steps to becoming that author you’ve always dreamed of. You have it in you… so go for it!

Cheers!