Want to Write a Book? Ask Yourself These 5 Questions First

Okay, so you want to write a book— that’s awesome! But let’s get real for a minute…. Have you really thought it through? Whether the idea just popped into your head or you’ve been mulling over the decision to do so for quite some time, there’s a LOT that goes into figuring out how to write a book.

And I mean a LOT.?

Don’t get scared now—?I’m not trying to talk you out of this. In fact, it's the exact opposite! I’ll be your biggest cheerleader on your journey as you write your book— I just want you to be prepared as you embark on this adventure, especially if you have no experience. Figuring out how to go about writing a book on your own is a tall order.

Whether you’re a seasoned author or a beginner, when it comes to the process of writing a book, starting with the basics is helpful. Think of it like creating a strong, solid foundation.?

There are hundreds of questions that you should be asking yourself before you begin (and while you’re in the process of) writing a book. But no one has the time for hundreds of questions, amIright? So lucky for you, I’ve narrowed it down to five key questions to ask yourself before you write a book.?

QUESTION 1: Why do you want to write a book??

First things first. Your why. WHY do you want to write a book? As with anything in life, your why is the reason behind doing something. It’s your motivation. Your inspiration. It’s what fuels you. It seems like such a simple question.? But we could all benefit from a reminder here and there of our own why.?

If you can answer, “Why do I want to write a book?” right off the bat, then you’re already on the right track. If not, just take a moment to think about it. There are a plethora of reasons people want to write a book. Depending on if it’s non-fiction or fiction, your why is sure to vary from the next guy or gal’s.?

Here are some common reasons people want to write their own book:

• You’re an expert in a certain field or industry and you want to share that knowledge.
• You have an original story to tell.
• You want to inspire others.
• You want to grow your business.
• You want to leave a legacy.

Whatever your story is— yes, pun fully intended here— the world wants to hear it. But first, there are some more questions you need to ask yourself before you begin to write.?

QUESTION 2: What is your unique angle or perspective?

If you’re a thought leader or striving to be one in your industry, then having a specific perspective is necessary to set you apart from others. Unfortunately, there’s not a lack of content out there these days, and that includes books. But an intriguing, original book? Now, we can never have too many of those.?

If you’re a beginner looking to write a book this is good news— just focus on creating a high-caliber read that is unique in all its glory. What is going to differentiate your book from the others in its category? You have to find a way to stand out from the crowd. If you have no prior experience writing a book, just know you’ll want these five essential questions to be a part of your writing process for every book. Hey— if you have what it takes to write one book, why stop there?!

When it comes to non-fiction, more often than not, there is going to be a similar book out on the market already. A truly original idea is hard to come by these days. It’s your own take on an idea that’s going to make all the difference.?

It may take some time, and it’s surely going to require some effort, but you have something unique to offer the world. Grab a shovel and start digging. Be sure to make note of the treasures you come up with.?

QUESTION 3: Who is your ideal audience? Who are you targeting?

Your why— check. Your unique take— check. Now let’s turn our focus to your audience. If you have no experience writing a book, one of the key questions you always want to ask yourself is “Who am I writing for?”? Who is your reader? Or who do you want your reader to be??

Before you put pen to paper— or should we say fingers to keyboard— make sure you know who you’re speaking (writing) to. And you may have heard it said before, but if you’re speaking to everyone, you’re really speaking to no one. Specificity is vital.

Once you determine your target audience, consider your tone and style. Depending on your readers, this is going to vary greatly. When you’re new to writing a book, finding your own voice as an author is going to be a process in and of itself. Think of your favorite authors or writers you admire. Do they have a very distinct voice?

What is it that draws them to you? And what’s distinguishing about their personal style? Are they humorous? Are they inspirational? Are they straightforward and matter of fact?? You have to decide if you’re going to have a conversational, formal, academic, or other type of tone. Your book, your call.?

Whatever you decide, it’s ultimately best to discover a nice balance of bringing your own innate author essence to what you write combined with a tone and style that suits your readers.?

QUESTION 4: What is your writing process?

We’re making progress here, my friend, and we're inching closer to starting to actually write your book. Eek! But don't back away now. This is exciting stuff! Don’t lose sight of the joy in the process, even though it may seem daunting at times. And remember we’re here to help make things easier for you.?

“What is my writing process?” Now if you’re stumped with this question, no need to freak out. I’m guessing you might have even been hoping I’d tell you the answer to this. But I’m not talking about the many steps that make up the process of writing a book, I’m talking about your own writing process. Just as your perspective should be unique, your process is going to be unlike anyone else’s as well.?

Well, at least that’s what it should be. In order to create an effective and efficient writing process, it’s going to involve some trial and error to figure out what works best for you. Sure, there are some proven techniques and ways to go about this, (you can check out this post if you find writer’s block creepin' up on ya) but I want you to discover your own process. There’s no one right way to do it when it comes to writing a book.?

But before you get started writing, having some sort of plan of attack is going to take you far. I highly recommend an outline to keep you organized and to help you stay on track. Without it, your story is bound to lack focus. Trust me, no one wants that.?

A few things to consider when trying to figure out your writing process are:

• Do you want to write sequentially? Writing from start to finish might make sense for some types of books, but it may not be the most effective option for others.?
• Do you need to conduct any research for the book? If it’s an academic book, then you know this is a resounding yes.
• Are there any people you want to interview? Any influential people whose thoughts would enhance your book? Of course they should be relevant to the topic or theme
• Are you going to write it on your own? This is a HUGE one and leads us into the last question….

QUESTION 5: How should you write your book??

There are a few options here. Before I share them though, I want you to get comfy for a second and close your eyes. Find that shovel again, and get ready to do a bit more digging, buttercup.?

Now, take a deep breath in and exhale any worries you might have in your mind— like how you’re going to write your first book for example.

Now, imagine your ideal scenario when it comes to working or creating something. Do you see yourself sitting alone peacefully, maybe even overlooking the ocean and soaking up the sunshine? Take this moment to consider everything— environment included. Do you prefer to work independently??

Or would you rather work with a partner? Maybe you have great ideas but need someone who will do the nitty gritty for you. You can totally picture yourself in a chic shared office space with your partner, bouncing ideas off one another. Collaboration is your jam.?

Once you have an idea of this, you can consider the following options:

• Write a book yourself with the support of an editor
• Write the book yourself with the guidance of a writing coach?
• Co-write the book with a trusted partner
• Hire a ghostwriter to write your book

With just a bit of digging, I know you’ll find your gold with one of these options.?

A First Time Author? No Experience Writing a Book? How Do You Get Published?

Let’s fast forward. You’ve completed your first book. Bam! Give yourself a pat on the back. Grab your favorite drink—? this is a toast-worthy milestone. But what now? What comes next? “How the heck do I get my book published?!” Check out this post for insight into your publishing options. The publishing process is another can of worms.?

Be sure to bookmark this page so you can remind yourself of these questions as you make your way on your journey to becoming an author. I can’t wait to read what you write!?

No experience? No problem! Press 49 is here for writers just like you. We know that writing a book is fun, but it also comes with a lot of work. No one ever said it would be an easy process— even more so if you’re a beginner.? But don’t you worry, I’ll support you in bringing your idea to life. Ready for some more guidance? Schedule your free consult call here!