So You Want To Write And Publish A Book? Here’s 5 Things I Learned…

I self-published my first book back in 1997.  It was an adventure in learning to say the least. 

There are a couple ways to do it but when you do not self publish you lose control of your product.  Publishers have a method they use and to me it is too "cookie cutter."  I'd rather reach a smaller audience and keep the product the way that I want; rather than relinquish control and release a product that does not reflect what I see and want to share.  That may change in the future, but 14 years later, I feel the same exact way. 

The playing field is becoming more level with publishing houses vs. self publishing and it's all because of the internet and internet sales.  There are some things though that will never change and this is what I learned.

1)  Everybody has a story.  When you read my book you will agree that EVERYONE has a story and we can all learn for each other.

2) I don't have the time is not a valid excuse.  There is always a place to cut back if you REALLY want to write a book.  You don't have to do it all in a week, a month or a year.  A little bit each day, try giving up some tv time or even sleep, and you will have your book written.  there is no time short cut.  Sorry.

3) Figure out how you write best.  I cannot write on a computer or typewriter.  Yellow or white legal pad and thoughts flow.  See what works for you.

4)  Don't even think once about grammer or how something looks or sounds UNTIL you get to the editing process.  Once you start focusing on the correcting and changing, the creativity completely leaves you.  This by the way is a proven fact.  Writing and correcting use different sides of the brain and in the creative process they do not compliment each other.

5) Lastly, Do not burn out.  Realize all this extra work that you are doing is temporary.  It does not last forever.  isn't a year or even more if it takes that worth getting YOUR story out?  Just start and commit to doing something EVERY day.  Even if it's a thought or a few sentences or a chapter.  Just Do It!

There are lots of resources for you,  Talk to the people at Schulers, Baker Books or Barnes and Noble.  pick their brain.  talk to authors who are already published when you get a chance.  But do not expect them to give you all their secrets.  Their is great enjoym,ent in finding your own way on this journey.  Good Luck! 

***If you would like to learn more please join me for my party Wednesday, November 9th, 5:30-7pm at Goei Entrepreneurial Center, 818 Butterworth SW, in Grand Rapids.  Suzanne Geha will be interviewing me about my life and the whole process.  Bing Goei will be on hand to chat with budding entrepreneurs, there will be complimentary hors d'oerves, a cash bar and lots of fun!  Stop by after work for some munchies.