What You Need, Personally, To Write A Book

There are as many reasons to write a book as there are titles of books. For each book published the reason to write the book was personal and may or may not have been fulfilled. Yet without the desire and a reason to begin writing a book you will have a difficult time finishing it.

The book is working its way through your thoughts and you are becoming more and more excited to get your ideas written down. Yet, like any habit, it starts with a bang and quickly loses momentum. This is the point where self motivation takes over. Here's where you need to go back to your reason for writing a book. Ask yourself questions such as why am I writing this, who am I writing to, what do I want them to get out of it, and is it worth my time and energy to continue. If you answer yes to the last question your motivation will be renewed and your habit of working on writing your book becomes solidified.

The key to a good book is the strength of its concept. Make sure you can explain what your book is about , preferrably in one sentence. If you were asked 'What is your book about?" you should not hesitate to be able to answer with confidence. If you can not you need to regroup and get a clear idea of what your concept is. Keep your eye on that concept throughout the writing of your book..

This may sound elementary but when you take a trip you need a roadmap to know where you are going and how you are going to get there. Do not start your book without a roadmap and plan. Some may think that writing a book means sitting down to your computer and just let the words flow out. Although a romantic idea, this is not how it works. Draft a plan of ideas and concepts, who you are writing to, and your end goal. This plan will be the difference between a tightly written book and a book that rambles on.

Writing a book requires focus and commitment over many months or more. You will not finish in a day or even a week. Your attention span will be strengthened when you follow the plan you've set up for yourself and your book, and you will reach each step. You will need a long attention span to keep you on task. Focus and commitment will be necessary not only to finish writing your book but also to get it published and with promotional efforts.

Remained determined, even through times that you have nothing to write or when your life has hit a rough patch. This commitment is necessary to keep you together through these times and come out the other end with a book you are proud of and worked hard at.

It is always a great idea to have guidance and someone in your corner all the way from the concept to the finished product. If this is your first book or your 99th it never hurts to have someone to bounce ideas off of who can actually help. Join a book writers forum, take a course, or get a coach. Any of these will assist you when times get tough.

You are the one who wants to write a book. You are the only one who can keep your determination throughout the entire process of writing, publishing, and promoting your masterpiece. If you're personally ready then it is time to start writing your book.

Toni Grundstrom is a freelance writer with emphasis in the Marketing field. I have been writing for a living for newspapers, newsletters, and now online ezines. I have also worked for a professional legal association, government entity, and small businesses. With 17 years of experience I provide valuable content in all aspects of Writing and Marketing.