Succeed As Your Own Boss

ENDING SMALL BUSINESS FAILURE

  • Home
  • About
  • Book Melinda
  • Consulting
  • SBL Store
  • SmallBizLady University
  • Free Tools
  • Podcast
  • #Smallbizchat
    • Be a #SmallBizChat Guest
  • Blog
  • Contact
    • We’re Hiring!
You are here: Home / Business Inspiration / How to Keep Yourself Motivated While Writing a Book

How to Keep Yourself Motivated While Writing a Book

August 7, 2023 By Melinda Emerson Leave a Comment

Feel free to share...Share on facebook
Facebook
Share on twitter
Twitter
Share on google
Google
Share on linkedin
Linkedin
Share on pinterest
Pinterest
Share on reddit
Reddit
Share on email
Email
Share on print
Print

How to Keep Yourself Motivated While Writing a Book social imageWriting a book is a significant undertaking. It requires dedication, discipline, and perseverance to finish a project. The average non-fiction book is 55,000-60,000 words, and getting to the finish line is no small undertaking. It’s common for writers to experience doubt, procrastination, and a lack of motivation throughout the process. In this post, I’ll discuss practical strategies to help you stay motivated and inspired as you embark on the journey of writing a book.

13 Ways to Keep Yourself Motivated While Writing a Book

As the author of multiple books (Become Your Own Boss in 12 Months and Fix Your Business), I know the struggle of staying excited and on task during a long writing project. 

Below I’m offering several ideas to help you stay motivated while writing a book. Explore these strategies to see what works best for you!  

1. Set Clear Deadlines

Begin by setting clear and realistic goals for your book-writing journey. Break down the process into manageable milestones and establish deadlines for each stage. Having specific targets to work towards provides a sense of structure and keeps you focused and motivated.

2. Fuel Your Inspiration

How to Keep Yourself Motivated While Writing a Book fuel your inspiration

Seek inspiration from various sources. Read books, watch movies, listen to podcasts, or explore art forms that align with your book’s genre or theme. Immersing yourself in creative works can reignite your imagination and inject fresh ideas into your writing, keeping your motivation high.

3. Develop Your Writing Routine

Develop a writing routine that works best for you. Whether it’s waking up early, writing during specific hours of the day, or carving out dedicated writing space in your house, having a consistent routine helps condition your mind to be in a writing mindset and makes it easier to sit down and get started.

4. Practice Visualization

Incorporate visualization techniques into your writing routine. Before sitting down to write, take a few moments to center yourself through deep breathing or meditation. Visualize yourself achieving your writing goals, feeling inspired, and enjoying the process. This practice helps cultivate a positive mindset and fosters motivation.

5. Celebrate Small Wins

How to Keep Yourself Motivated While Writing a Book celebrate small wins

Acknowledge and celebrate your progress along the way. Completing a chapter, hitting a word count milestone, or receiving positive feedback from early readers are all accomplishments worth celebrating. Recognizing your achievements boosts motivation and reinforces the belief that you can complete your book.

6. Focus on the Purpose and Impact

Remind yourself of the purpose and impact your book can have. Reflect on why you started writing it in the first place and how it can make a difference in readers’ lives. Connecting with the bigger picture provides a sense of meaning and inspires you to persevere through challenges.

7. Join a Supportive Writing Community

How to Keep Yourself Motivated While Writing a Book supportive communities

Join writing groups or writer’s associations such as The Non-Fiction Writers Association. They offer tons of resources, expert interviews, and a community of writers getting started just like you. Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals provides encouragement, feedback, and accountability. Engaging with a supportive writing community can reinvigorate your motivation during challenging times.

8. Practice Self-Care

Prioritize self-care to maintain your overall well-being and mental state. Get enough sleep, exercise regularly, eat nutritious meals, and take breaks when needed. Taking care of your physical and mental health provides the energy and clarity of mind required to stay motivated and productive.

9. Use Visual Reminders

Create visual reminders of your book-writing journey. Design a vision board with images and quotes representing your goals and aspirations as an author. Place it in your writing space as a constant reminder of what you’re working towards, keeping your motivation alive.

10. Break Your Writing into Smaller Tasks

How to Keep Yourself Motivated While Writing a Book break into smaller tasks

Breaking your writing into smaller, manageable tasks helps prevent overwhelm and makes the process feel more attainable. Instead of focusing on the entire book, concentrate on writing just 1000 words a day. You could break it down into tasks, such as writing the table of contents or making to list of other experts you might want to interview. You could also write a section, a scene, or even a single paragraph. Accomplishing these smaller tasks boosts motivation and builds momentum.

11. Experiment with Writing Prompts

When facing writer’s block or feeling uninspired, try using writing prompts to spark your creativity. Writing exercises or prompts can help you explore different angles, develop new ideas, and break free from any creative ruts you may encounter along the way.

12. Stay Curious and Continuously Learn

Maintain a curious mindset and embrace learning throughout your book-writing journey. Research, explore new topics, and seek out knowledge about your book’s subject matter. Cultivating a sense of curiosity keeps your mind engaged and fuels your passion for writing.

13. Seek Feedback and Accountability

Share your work with trusted individuals, such as beta readers, writing mentors, or writing groups. Constructive feedback and accountability from others can provide fresh perspectives, motivate you to improve your craft, and keep you accountable for your writing goals.

14. Embrace Imperfection

How to Keep Yourself Motivated While Writing a Book imperfection

Understand that your first draft doesn’t have to be perfect. Give yourself permission to write without judgment or self-criticism. Embrace imperfections and remember that the editing process exists to refine and polish your work. This mindset frees you from unnecessary pressure and allows creativity to flow.

15. Take Breaks and Rest

Writing a book is a marathon, not a sprint. Allow yourself regular breaks to rest, recharge, and gain a fresh perspective. Stepping away from your writing can prevent burnout and reignite your motivation when you return to work with renewed energy.

Writing a book requires commitment, discipline, and unwavering motivation. You can stay motivated throughout your book-writing journey by implementing these strategies, such as setting clear goals, establishing a writing routine, seeking support, and practicing self-care. Remember, writing a book is a transformative process that brings your story to life and helps you grow as a writer and individual. Stay motivated, trust your creativity, and enjoy the fulfilling experience of writing your book.

Should You Hire a Writing Coach?

Benefits of hiring a writing coach

Another strategy some authors use to stay motivated while writing a book (and hone their craft simultaneously) is hiring a writing coach. But is a writing coach right for you?

If you plan to self-publish your book, hiring a writing coach can provide numerous benefits and significantly impact your writing journey. Here are several reasons why hiring a writing coach could be beneficial.

Expert Guidance

A writing coach is a seasoned professional with in-depth knowledge and expertise in writing and storytelling. They can offer valuable guidance, constructive feedback, and industry insights to help you improve your writing skills and craft a compelling book.

Accountability

A writing coach provides a level of accountability that can keep you on track with your writing goals. They can help you establish realistic deadlines, encourage you during challenging times, and keep you motivated throughout the writing process.

Objective Feedback

Writing coaches offer an impartial perspective on your work. They can provide honest feedback, pinpoint areas for improvement, and help you identify your strengths as a writer. Their objective insights can help refine your writing style, enhance your storytelling techniques, and elevate the quality of your book.

Customized Support

How to Keep Yourself Motivated While Writing a Book support

A writing coach tailors their guidance and support to your needs and goals. They can identify your strengths and weaknesses, address your individual challenges, and provide personalized strategies to help you overcome obstacles and achieve your writing objectives.

Hone Writing Skills

Working with a writing coach allows you to develop your writing skills. They can help you enhance your book structure, chapter development, dialogue, pacing, and other critical storytelling elements. With their guidance, you can strengthen your writing abilities and elevate your book professionally.

Industry Knowledge and Insights

Writing coaches are often well-connected in the writing industry and possess up-to-date knowledge of publishing trends, book marketing, and the overall landscape of the writing world. They can provide valuable insights and advice on navigating the publishing process, building your author platform, and positioning your book for success.

Confidence Building

Writing can be a reflective and vulnerable process. A writing coach provides encouragement, builds your confidence, and helps you trust your voice and instincts as a writer. They foster a supportive environment that allows you to take risks, embrace your unique style, and believe in your writing abilities.

Time and Efficiency

How to Keep Yourself Motivated While Writing a Book wiring process

Hiring a writing coach can help streamline your writing process and save time. They can guide you in structuring your book, organizing your ideas, and implementing efficient writing techniques. This allows you to work more productively, avoid common pitfalls, and progress quickly.

Long-Term Growth

Working with a writing coach benefits your current project and contributes to your long-term growth as a writer. The skills, knowledge, and insights gained from a writing coach can be applied to future writing endeavors, enhancing your overall writing career.

Hiring a writing coach offers a valuable investment in your writing journey. Their expertise, guidance, accountability, and support can help you refine your skills, overcome obstacles, and elevate your writing. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced writer, a writing coach can be a valuable ally in helping you achieve your writing goals and realize your publishing dreams.

Get Your Book Done!

If you’re looking for more motivation for writing your book – and tools and tips on how to finally get your book done – be sure to join me at Brand in Demand Live Sept. 21-23 in Philadelphia, PA, to learn what it takes to write a great book and turn into a National Brand. Register today.

Feel free to share...Share on facebook
Facebook
Share on twitter
Twitter
Share on google
Google
Share on linkedin
Linkedin
Share on pinterest
Pinterest
Share on reddit
Reddit
Share on email
Email
Share on print
Print

Filed Under: Business Inspiration, Your Small Business Tagged With: book-writing journey, supportive writing community, writing a book, writing exercises, writing routine

Fix Your Business Now!

Order SmallBizLady's new book Fix Your Business, 90-Day plan to Get Back Your Life and Reduce Chaos in Your Business. It includes the 12 Ps of Running a Successful Business and readers will finish the book with a new strategic plan to take their business to the next level.

About Melinda Emerson

Melinda F. Emerson, “SmallBizLady” is America’s #1 Small Business Expert. She is an internationally renowned keynote speaker on small business development, social selling, and online marketing strategy. As CEO of Quintessence Group, her Philadelphia-based marketing consulting firm serves Fortune 500 brands that target the small business market. Clients include Amazon, Adobe, Verizon, VISA, Google, FedEx, Chase, American Express, The Hartford, and Pitney Bowes. She also has an online school, www.smallbizladyuniversity.com, that teaches people online marketing and how to start and grow a successful small business and publishes a blog SucceedAsYourOwnBoss.com. Her advice is widely read, reaching more than 3 million entrepreneurs each week online. She hosts The Smallbizchat Podcast and is the bestselling author of Become Your Own Boss in 12 Months, Revised and Expanded, and Fix Your Business, a 90 Day Plan to Get Back Your Life and Reduce Chaos in Your Business.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Let’s Connect

  • facebook
  • instagram
  • tiktok
  • pinterest
  • linkedin
  • twitter
  • youtube
  • feedburner

Sign up for the SmallBizLady BUZZ Newsletter and be the first to receive updates and details about upcoming events:

We’re proud to be part of the Mediaplanet Empowering Small Business campaign! The COVID-19 pandemic brought hardship and ruin on the nation’s small businesses, but there’s now reason for hope. Learn about the resources, support, and tools available to help your small business bounce back and grow stronger than ever by picking up a copy of the campaign in USA Today and reading it online here.

Get a FREE Chapter of SmallBizLady’s Book,
"Become Your Own Boss in 12 Months, Revised and Expanded"!

Become Your Own Boss

Most Popular Posts

>Seven Ways to be More Profitable in Your Small Business
> 7 Ways to Attract Customers to Your Small Business
> 6 Tips for Managing Small Business Finances
> How to Run a Successful Multilevel Marketing Business
> 10 Ways to Grow Your Small Business With Instagram
> How to Sell on Facebook
> How to Get Over the Fear of Starting a New Business

Featured Videos

Bloomberg News Interview
How to Support Small Businesses During the Holidays

National Speakers Association
Winter Conference

Fox 29 Philadelphia
'Small Biz Lady' gives best advice for starting a new business in the New Year

Fox Business
Starting a Business

MSNBC
The importance of job mentoring for women

#SmallBizChat Live
National Small Business Week: Q&A

Good Day Philadelphia
Expert Shares Tips on How to Become Your Own Boss

Testimonials

Become Your Own Boss is a must read if you’re thinking of launching a business of your own.
Jean Chatzky, Bestselling Author of Money 911 and Financial Editor of NBC’s Today Show
Great step-by-step advice for anyone looking to start their own business.
Andrew C. Taylor, Chairman, Enterprise Rent-A-Car
Melinda Emerson has written a remarkable book. It is essential reading for anyone seeking to make the transition from working girl to successfully working it, as an entrepreneur.
Cynthia McClain-Hill, Past President, National Association of Women Business Owners
The perfect companion for those planning to go out on their own. Melinda delivers firsthand practical advice on how to be the successful entrepreneur. Read it if you want to get it right the first time.
Kenneth L. Shropshire, Professor at the Wharton School of Business, University of Pennsylvania
If you are looking for a versatile speaker who can talk about how to grow small businesses or get started with social media, look no further.
Heather Van Sickle Executive Director, National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship (NACCE)
Her wit and depth of subject knowledge were entertaining and empowering. Melinda is definitely on our short list of seasoned entrepreneurs and business leaders we look to invite back in the near future.
Tennille M. Robinson Senior content & Event producer for Inc. magazine
Melinda Emerson, “SmallBizLady,” is an engaging and witty speaker and a great addition to any conference. Her terrific presentation and compelling delivery give people the information they need and want to become their own bosses and grow success… Read more
Laurie Dalton White Conference Director, Pennsylvania Conference for Women
Melinda Emerson has been a fantastic small business and social media resource for the Pitney Bowes team. Not only is she personable and easy to work with, but she also has an innate understanding of the small business audience. My marketing programs … Read more
Justin Amendola, Former VP, Global SMB Digital Strategy, Pitney Bowes

Latest #SmallBizChat

The SmallBizChat Podcast: How to License and Sell Your Content with Mitch Axelrod

In this episode, Melinda Emerson welcomes Mitch Axelrod to discuss the intricacies of intellectual property (IP) licensing for small businesses. Mitch shares his personal journey in the licensing field, offering insights into identifying and protecting IP effectively. They explore common pitfalls in licensing negotiations and provide practical tips to navigate these challenges. Mitch Axelrod is […]

Fix Your Business Q&A Video

Recent Posts

  • The SmallBizChat Podcast: How to License and Sell Your Content with Mitch Axelrod
  • What KPIs Should You Track In Your Small Business?
  • The SmallBizChat Podcast: If I Had to Do It All Over Again with Melinda Emerson
  • How to Develop a Business Launch Timeline, Part II
  • The SmallBizChat Podcast: Hit It and Quit It with LaTanya White, Dov Gordon, and Anisha Robinson Keeys

#SmallBizChat

  • SmallBizChat Archive
  • @SmallBizLady

Business Advice

  • How to Start

SmallBizLady Store

Products

Free Chapter

Get In Touch

  • FAQ
  • Be a #SmallBizChat Guest
  • Contact Us
Copyright © 2025
Quintessence Entertainment, Inc
PO Box 280
Drexel Hill, PA 19026
(610) 352-0680
Privacy Policy · Refund Policy

Let’s Connect

  • facebook
  • instagram
  • tiktok
  • pinterest
  • linkedin
  • twitter
  • youtube
  • feedburner