You are not crazy. You are first.

Publishing Your First Book: Overcoming Self-Doubt and Judgment

Publishing a book is a deeply rewarding but highly technical process that requires an immense investment of time, energy, and sometimes, a few tears. As an experienced author and CEO of Next Page Publishing, I've seen it all. My name is Larissa Soan, and I've dedicated my career to helping entrepreneurs transform their ideas into published works. In this blog post, I want to share some insights into the emotional journey of publishing a book and offer encouragement for those of you who are considering taking the plunge.

### The Decision to Write

Before we delve into the technicalities of publishing, let's talk about the most significant hurdle: deciding to write a book. This step is often laden with self-doubt and fear of judgment. Many aspiring authors hesitate to commit because they're unsure if their stories are worth telling or if they have the expertise to share.

The Emotional Rollercoaster

Writing a book is not just a matter of putting words on paper; it involves an emotional journey that includes excitement, fear, doubt, and ultimately, satisfaction. You might find yourself laughing at one moment and tearing up at another as you pour your experiences and knowledge into your manuscript. This emotional investment is what makes your book unique and valuable.

Overcoming Self-Doubt and Judgment

One of the most common obstacles I see among aspiring authors is the fear of judgment—whether it's self-judgment or the fear of being judged by others. This fear can be paralyzing and often prevents people from even starting their book projects.

A quote that resonates deeply with me, shared by one of our clients, Brenda Shaughnessy, is: "You're not crazy. You're first." This simple yet powerful statement captures the essence of what it means to be a pioneer. Whether you're the first in your family, friend group, or professional circle to write a book, you are breaking new ground, and that can feel intimidating.

Practical Advice for Aspiring Authors

If you're considering writing a book, here are a few practical tips to help you get started and stay motivated:

1. Set Realistic Goals: Break down the writing process into manageable chunks. Set aside specific times each week dedicated to writing.

2. Seek Professional Help: Working with industry professionals for editing, design, and marketing can significantly enhance the quality of your book and ease the publishing process.

3. Build a Support Network: Surround yourself with supportive friends, family, and fellow writers who understand your goals and can offer encouragement.

4. Invest in Yourself: Be prepared to allocate time and funds for your book. This might mean cutting back on social activities, but the investment will be worth it.

Real Stories, Real Success

At Next Page Publishing, we have helped dozens of entrepreneurs achieve their publishing goals. Our authors have gone on to sell out their programs, get on waitlists, and even secure international speaking engagements. The hardest part is often getting them to say "yes" to their dreams and overcoming the fear of judgment.

Final Thoughts

Remember, the journey of writing and publishing a book is uniquely yours. Don't let others' doubts or fears project onto you. You have a story to tell, and your experiences are valuable. Embrace the challenge and take pride in being the first in your circle to take this bold step.

You are not crazy; you are first. And someone always has to be first.

If you need guidance or support in your publishing journey, reach out to us at Next Page Publishing. We're here to help you every step of the way.

Have a wonderful day, and happy writing!

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About the Author

Larissa Soehn is the CEO of Next Page Publishing, a company dedicated to helping entrepreneurs write, edit, publish, and market their books. With 15 books authored and over 60 authors mentored Larissa brings a wealth of experience and passion to the publishing industry.