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How to Avoid a False Start

A false start is whenever an individual is gung-ho about their book. Initially, they’re unstoppable, ignoring the naysayers and pressing forward no matter what. However, life throws curve balls and the author gets off track and their goals steadily slip into distant dreams. 


We’ve all been there! At least I know I have several times. Here we’ll discuss contributing factors but also techniques to get back on course.


Creating A Solid Foundation

Whenever I had a false start, it was because I didn't have a system in place. I did things that landed me in the dark over and over again. I dived into my book chronologically. I would write the introduction and a couple of chapters or so and then get overwhelmed. Through my excitement I just started writing my book off of the top of my head! Then I wondered how I got trapped into writer’s block.


First, go hard on creating a solid foundation. Develop a good outline. This starts with having specific objectives and messages for our readers. I recommend two to five key messages to address throughout the book. Make a template to follow for each chapter. 


Like A Puzzle

Cover different areas like you would approach putting together a puzzle. Tackle various parts of your book. Don’t work in chronological order. Going from point A to Z will fizzle out our flames. Instead work on different sections throughout your process.


Set Up Smaller Goals

Another pitfall was I didn’t have a set deadline. Instead, I kept it vague. For example, “I’ll have my book done by the end of the year.” No milestones; no clear target to tackle. I had set myself up repeatedly. Accordingly, I encourage you to create smaller goals to reach your end product.


These goals might look like committing to a writing schedule. Write for a specific time frame on certain days of the week. Mark your calendar. Giving yourself a word count for chapters and meeting that word count in your writing sessions.


Get Results - Fast!

To speed up the process and get positive results, find an accountability partner. Ideally, working with another author. You can meetup in-person or virtually. Yet, you don’t have to discuss your book in its entirety but simply be a support person for one another.


Conclusion

Again, common mistakes leading to false starts look like beginning your book project without an outline. Writing content in order. Without milestones nor set deadlines to hold yourself accountable. To avoid a false start: 

  1. Create an outline. 

  2. Generate key objectives and messages (two to five). 

  3. Tackle different areas of your book. 

  4. Develop smaller goals and milestones. 

  5. Work with an accountability partner or another author to get faster results and to see progress.


Finally, don’t beat yourself up if you had a false start! Get back on the horse by following these tips and more. I developed a program that will help guide you on your journey to finishing the book. For details on different approaches buy a copy of In Her Own Ink: Strategies For Creating from Author to Author (2025). This book will undoubtedly direct you on how to develop best practices to tackle your manuscript from start to finish, stay motivated and disciplined, and to minimize writer’s block. This book offers advice from other authors. Buy it, use it and finish your book! Stay focused. Schedule your free ink call consultation now. Visit: IN HER OWN INK to learn more.



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