The writing is the easy bit

Ever jumped into a new project without a clear plan? Me neither. Well, except for that one time I thought it’d be a grand idea to cross the canal in Brindley Place, upside down, under the bridge, after three pints of Guinness. (Spoiler alert: not my finest hour.) But I've learned since then… mostly.

Yet, a surprising number of people start writing their business book without knowing how they’re going to get to the other side. And, more importantly, what they’ll do once they’re there.

If I had a penny for every time someone said, “I started writing my business book, but I have no clue what to do next,” I’d have at least 173 pennies — which, for the record, isn’t quite enough for a pint of Guinness, so let's not go there again.

Recently, I’ve been digging through my notebooks and revisiting my Thought Leadership and Book Strategy Canvasses (yes, I make one for every discovery call). And one pattern keeps popping up: people don’t get stuck with the writing. Nope, the real trouble begins at 1) telling the world about the book once it’s done (hello, marketing!) and 2) figuring out which book will actually help them achieve their business goals in the first place (writing the right book).

And it’s number 2 that’s got me thinking as we approach the end of the year. Many people are eyeing 2025 as the year they’ll finally become an author (or write that next book).

But, here’s the obligatory metaphor (sorry, not sorry): an author without a strategy is like a road trip without a map. You’ll burn fuel, take random turns, and maybe even get lost in the process. But with a clear plan, you’ll know exactly where to go, which detours to avoid, and how to make it to your destination — a book that hits the mark for both your readers and your business goals. It’s the difference between cruising to your final stop or dangling precariously over the Worcester and Birmingham Canal (trust me, it’s not fun).

The truth is, you don’t need to be a better writer — you need a better strategy.

And that's where I come in. I’m working on something practical, actionable, and designed to help you map out your book strategy with ease. Who knows, you could have your outline done by the time 2025 rolls in. Curious? I’ll fill you in later in the week.

Speaking of later in the week, we’re also launching three fantastic books on Thursday, and each one will be available for just 99p/99c on launch day. I’ll send you the links, but here’s a sneak peek:

David Pullan & Sarah Jane McKechnie - The DNA of Engagement: A story-based approach to building trust and influencing change

“The DNA of Engagement? is more than a book; it’s a personal mentor to help your great ideas thrive in the moments that matter.”

My take: Want a solid framework to make your message stick in any situation? Read this book. I might have borrowed a tip or two while writing this email!

Sharon Eden - The Wild Elder - RE-DISCOVERED: Down & Dirty Spirituality to revitalise who you really are, where you’re going, and what you came here to do

“It’s a life-long blueprint for discontented midlife women, or those who feel lost, to nourish their souls so they can empower their lives.”

My take: If, like me, you lean too much on your logical brain (except when Guinness is involved), Sharon’s going to help you discover a spiritual side you didn’t know you had. And she’ll make you laugh while she’s at it!

Anne Walsh - Hate Excel?: Learn to love the software that can transform your confidence and career

“Excel is used by over a billion people in practically every office around the world. And loads of those people hate it. If you are one of them then this is the book for you.”

My take: This is more than just an Excel guide (though it’ll help with those Excel nightmares). It’s about taking action — because with the right steps and a good mentor, even the tough stuff gets easier.

All three books have a common thread — taking action, making things happen and choosing your own path. I love them all!

I’ll send the links on Thursday when we launch. For just ￡2.97, you can grab all three. What’s not to love?

Ciao for now!

Debbie

P.S. If you’re thinking about writing a book but haven’t worked out what to write or how to make it fit your business goals, it’s a bit like hanging upside down under that canal bridge after three pints of Guinness — seemed like a good idea at the time, but you’re not sure how to get to the other side. I’ll share the strategy to help you make it across, no acrobatics required (but Guinness might help). Stay tuned!

PPS: I'm interviewing all three authors live on Linkedin tomorrow - any questions for them?