When it comes to creating and launching your book, it may be tempting to just dive into the world of writing and publishing. But this can leave you feeling scattered, uncertain of your message, and overwhelmed by your to-do list.
Fortunately, planning is the answer. When you have a plan in place for how you’ll write and launch your book, the process is much more enjoyable. Here’s how to get started with your very own plan:
Determine the Purpose of Your Book
Before writing a single word, you want to get clear on why you’re writing your book. When you know what you want, it’s easier to make decisions about publishing your book. Here are a few common reasons why people publish a book:
Some online business owners publish books because they want to grow their platform. When you publish a book, thousands of people can discover your work. This can lead to public speaking opportunities, new client relationships, and even joint venture offers.
However, it’s important to understand that your book needs to be related to your platform. For example, if you’re a health and fitness coach and you publish a book about saving money, you’re not likely to gain any traction.
Instead, stick to a topic that you can use to showcase your knowledge. A book about gardening with a ‘grow your own healthy foods’ slant would probably appeal to your community.
Another reason you might want to publish a book is to establish your expertise and authority. When reporters and journalists look for sources to interview, they begin by looking for thought leaders in the industry. If you have a book published, it instantly makes you look like a knowledgeable professional.
Publishing a book also helps to build your credibility. If you tackle a difficult topic in your book and present solutions that your audience can implement, then you’ll be seen as a problem solver. If you leverage this talent, you could get paid work as a consultant.
There’s a third reason you may choose to publish your book—for profit. If you’re knowledgeable about your topic and you’ve found a unique viewpoint, then you can use your book to create another income stream. If you keep publishing books regularly, you can grow this stream until it’s a raging river of revenue.
While you can absolutely make a living from simply publishing books, keep in mind that it can take some time to build an author brand. You’ll need to spend time and money promoting your books as you grow your list of titles.
Some people want to publish a book to build up their confidence. When you’ve written a long book, it’s easier to take on new challenges because you know you have what it takes to tackle big projects. This newfound confidence can attract potential clients who are eager to work with you.
Not only does publishing a book give you more confidence in your abilities, it also helps you solidify your brand. You know what your mission is, and this makes it easier to communicate your message with those around you.
Many authors find it’s simpler to go after big opportunities after they’ve published a book. This is often due to embracing a new mindset. You’re no longer plagued with intense self-doubt and overwhelmed with fear.
Instead, you’ll look at new opportunities for what they really are—chances to grow and learn. With this mindset, it helps you put obstacles and setbacks into perspective. You’ll also be more focused and have the ability to evaluate new ideas with a positive outlook.
Whatever your reason for writing and publishing a book, be honest about it. Embrace your ambition and take your message to the masses through the power of self-publishing!