Have you ever wanted to write a book?
I have. For a long time.
For many years I’ve had the dream of becoming a published author. I’ve also had several ideas about the book I wanted to write; some good and some not so much.
But it finally hit me: The best idea for a book ever! Well, at least for me. I am so excited about it, and it has to get done in the next two months (I’ll explain after the project is finished).
I’m giving myself 30 days to write my book. I know that’s not a lot of time.
Here’s how I plan on doing it based on my current writing habits:
- I’ve Created a Time Limit. As I explained above, mine is 30 days. If you are writing a short ebook, perhaps 7 days will suffice. Either way, you must create a time limit. Once you have done it, the next challenge is to simply start.
- Make Your Goal Public. I guess I just did that, didn’t I? Maybe you want to have an accountability partner. Post your challenge on Facebook and Twitter. Once you have laid down the gauntlet, the pressure is on!
- Pre-write and Mind Map. Before you start writing, do the research and make the notes you need. I created a mind map first and then an outline.
- Find Your Happy Place. I need to get away from all distractions; preferably away from home. I will bring headphones and turn on Ommwriter to get in the zone.
- Work in Bursts and Take Breaks. I always set a timer when I write; usually for 15-20 minutes followed by a break.
- Report Your Success. I subscribe to forums on the net where I can report my successes (and failures). I highly recommend doing this! The reporting of success and failure keeps you motivated you to keep going.
Some other accountability measures
- I have a set word count. I have learned to think in terms of 10-thousand work increments and then to break each chapter into equal lengths. Here are the general guidelines (my book will be the “good-sized nonfiction” type):
» 10,000 words: a pamphlet
» 20,000 words: short eBook or print book
» 40,000–50,000 words: good-sized nonfiction book
» 60,000–70,000 words: longer nonfiction book
» 80,000 words–100,000 words: typical novel length - I’m giving myself weekly deadlines. It’s basically a word count deadline, but it may be a percentage of the project as well…we’ll see.
Finally, I have created a blog for the book as well. Basically, each 800-1000 word post each day will be the nuts and bolts of the book. I’ll expand upon each post near the end of the month in order to flesh out the chapters. I’ll let you know about the blog in the near future and post a link!
Wish me luck everyone! I expect you to ask me how it’s going…
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