Navigate the Psychological Phases of Becoming an Author, Part 3

In Part 1 of this series, I went over excitement and enthusiasm and Part 2 shared how to overcome imposter syndrome .

Now on to a big one: Stage 3: Determination...or Surrender.

In almost every life situation, from personal relationships to getting a degree to finishing a fitness challenge, we eventually come to a difficult fork in the road.

Do I continue or do I quit?

Is all of this effort worth it?

What if I finish and fail?

It is sometimes easier to jump ship because there might be someone else who deserves our love and affection, the career we've chosen could lead to a life of misery, or say "I really just want to eat donuts every day!" Whatever it is, I am by no means pointing a finger or judging—that's not my role here. I want you to understand that I am fully aware everything worth doing contains elements of challenge which make us question our initial interest and decision. Including writing a book.

You will, at some point, close the Word document that contains your fledgling manuscript and think, Nope. I just can't do this. It's too hard. I don't have enough time. I'm not qualified. No one is going to buy it anyway.

And I'm here to tell you, with no college degree or formal writing education, and with dozens of published books and millions sold, it is totally worth it. Also, inside of every single manuscript, I have asked myself those same questions...and decided to continue in spite of myself. I want you to do that, too.

It only takes publishing once to have some understanding about how powerful a book can be—not only for you, the author, your career, and even your bank account, but also for the readers whose lives you will touch, help, and make better.

The next time you're discouraged and ready to give up, think about this:

• Your education, knowledge, and experience in book form will help someone (at the least) or change someone's life for the better (best case and probable scenario). [I mean, hasn't your life been changed for the better by at least one book you've read? I know mine has!]
• Being an author will give you a credibility nothing else can.
• Your book will make connections and open doors for you that will not have been made any other way.
• Your words will be a part of the legacy you leave behind.
• Prospective clients and customers will get to know you through your writing and want to hire you, and
• ...all of the intangibles and unknowables. I couldn't have predicted any of the amazing people I'd get to meet, become friends with, and work with as a result of my first book (let alone the subsequent ones).

There is real magic in being an author, so please keep going. Even if it takes you another year, or three years, do a little writing every day. Visualize signing your book and giving it away, and receiving royalty checks and engagement letters. Before you know it, just like every other challenge over which you've triumphed, you will enjoy the rewards of your hard work. And again I promise you, it will be worth it.

One more thing I know from experience, having an experienced guide makes every challenge more fun and less painful. If you'd like to see if I would be a great guide for you, reach out to [email protected]. Someone in my office will be happy to provide you with detailed information and if desired, schedule a discovery call with me to find out more. See you next week!

Until then, happy writing! To Your Success! Honorée Corder | [email protected] | HonoreeCorder.com

Book Spotlight:

Kent Sanders was an art, theology, and technology professor for many years—now he's a full-time writer and his book, The Artist's Suitcase is full of tips, encouragement, and advice to get—and keep—your creative juices flowing.

Whether you're stuck or moving forward at the speed of sound, Kent's book will give you what you need just when you need it.

P.S. Want to go back and review the previous emails in this series? Click here to view my newsletter feed !