The Reality of Writing a Book

The secrets that the other authors won’t tell you

Embarking on the journey of writing a book is akin to setting sail on an uncharted sea. The allure of crafting a decent manuscript often overshadows the practical realities that accompany the process. While the dream of holding a published book in your hands is undoubtedly exhilarating, the path to achieving that dream is riddled with challenges and surprises. Here, I am going to share the honest truth about what I faced when I wrote my memoir(s).

It Takes Longer Than You Think:

Time, that elusive commodity, often plays tricks on aspiring authors. What may initially seem like a manageable timeline can quickly spiral into months or even years of dedicated effort. The process of researching, outlining, writing, revising my first book took 16 years. The second book took less than 2 years (because I finally figured out what I was doing!). Distractions, writer’s block, and the inevitable ebb and flow of creativity often impedes the process. Patience becomes not only a virtue but a necessity as the writing unfolds at its own pace.

It Costs More Than You’ve Planned For:

Financial considerations are often underestimated in the pursuit of writing a book. Beyond the basic expenses of writing tools and research materials, there are myriad hidden costs waiting to emerge. The professional editing, cover design, marketing, and distribution of my first book cost more than $30,000. That doesn’t include the countless classes, workshops, conferences and reading research that I completed along the way. Self-publishing authors, in particular, must bear the brunt of these costs independently. It’s essential to approach the endeavor with financial preparedness and a clear understanding of the potential expenses involved.

It Will Get Worse Before It Gets Better:

As the initial euphoria of starting a new project wanes, authors often find themselves grappling with self-doubt, creative blocks, and the overwhelming sense of inadequacy. I often hear sentiments of ‘imposture syndrome’ from many of my writing coaching clients. Progress may appear slow, and the manuscript may seem like an incoherent mess at times. However, it’s crucial to persevere through the rough patches, trusting that clarity and cohesion will eventually emerge from the chaos. Embracing the inevitable struggles as part of the journey is key to pushing through to the other side.

It Will Be the Best Thing You’ve Ever Done:

Despite the challenges and uncertainties inherent in writing a book, the sense of accomplishment upon completion is unparalleled. Holding a tangible manifestation of your creativity and intellect in the form of a published book is a profoundly gratifying experience. When I got the first copy of my book in the mail, I was euphoric. When I signed copies of it at my book launch party, I wept with overwhelm. As the comments and reviews rolled in, I was astonished at the amount of love and appreciation that I felt. The impact of sharing my story has completely transformed my life, my work, my friendships, and my future.

So, you will have a love-hate relationship with writing your book. It is a labor of love that demands sacrifice, perseverance, and resilience. While the realities of the journey may test your resolve, the destination makes every hardship worthwhile. Embrace the process, learn from the challenges, and revel in the joy of bringing your vision to life. After all, the greatest stories are born from the most arduous journeys.

You can download my book here.

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