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Getting Started: Organizing Your Thoughts

Before I dive into my book project I commit to a few initial steps. They establish the foundation. I carry out these practices to ensure focus and motivation. While there are several approaches to book writing, I’ll bring our attention to getting organized.


Setting the Foundation

    First, create book objectives. This is the purpose of the book. Also, your promises to the reader. As the author, what book goals do you have? Why are you writing the book? How will you empower your reader?

 

    Answering these questions will help you determine the makeup of your book design. Generally, two to five objectives are ideal. The entire book is committed to solidifying your promises to the reader.


Your Motivation for Publishing

    Second, create three to seven reasons you deserve to publish. This list can be used as a tool to rekindle your passion. When you hit writer’s block, refer back to your list of reasons. Reflecting on them will help you dive back into your vision for the project.


Organizing Your Thoughts

    Third, organize your work. Get a binder or folders to gather content. Generally, I separate my ideas into the following sections:


  • Objectives/Introduction/Conclusion/Outline

  • Reader Engagement & Activities

  • Chapter Content

  • Book Visions & Marketing

  • Things to Do

  • Miscellaneous


    Finally, I get to work on my outline. I’m a visual learner. Therefore, when drafting my outline, I identify all book elements from the Title Page to About the Author. This expands my book vision. 


Conclusion

    Writing a book has several components. However, organizing your thoughts is essential to developing a strong foundation to build on. Again, getting started demands having clear book objectives and knowing your reasons for publishing. 


    Additionally, organizing material into a binder or folders will undoubtedly help you build content, and find initial ideas to continue the writing journey. Lastly, creating an outline is critical to an author’s success to completing the manuscript.


    Learn more by buying a copy of my book, In Her Own Ink: Strategies for Creating from Author to Author. And, work with In Her Own Ink to reduce challenges, and to accomplish your self-publishing goals.

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