You want to write a book. You have a message to share. You know the kind of readers you can help with your book. But how do you get started? It feels kind of overwhelming.
Here’s a simple way to start moving toward your book: Write a letter.
Think about the people who will read your book. Who are they? What are they going through that your book will help them?
What questions are they asking that your book will answer? What do they hope to discover that you will provide? In what other ways will your book benefit them or someone they love?
Their situation doesn’t have to be dramatic or traumatic. Simple encouragement is much in need every day, and it goes a long way toward helping people. Something that brings joy and clarity is very valued.
What are your hoped-for outcomes for your readers? How do you want them to feel after they finish reading your book? What are their takeaways and triumphs? What will they learn and put to good use?
Jot down your answers to those questions. Try to get a good, clear sense of who your readers will be. Think of all the reasons they need your book.
Then zero in on one reader. Give the person a name if that helps. Think about what their situation might be, and how your book will make them feel.
Can you write a letter to that ideal reader? Nothing formal or fancy. Just a simple note of encouragement. A letter that lets them know you understand their situation because you’ve been there.
Share your thoughts, guidance, and wisdom in that letter. Tell them a quick story, a memory of something you think will help them. Let them know how things will look different after they read your book. Share your hope of what their takeaways will be.
Write the letter in a conversational, free flowing way. Don’t edit yourself. If your thoughts meander, that’s okay. Just keep your focus on your ideal reader and their situation. Write from your heart.
When you finish the letter, look over it. This letter can help you discover your voice and the main message you want to share. That’s a great foundation for your book.
You can turn that letter into an outline for your book. The letter can give you ideas of what to include in your book. You can build on each section of the letter with more information, examples, stories, memories, answers to questions.
As you work to build from that letter, you’ll see your book taking shape. That’s a great motivator and a wonderful way to start your book. It’s also a great way to ensure that your book will stay focused on those readers who need it most.
From that one simple letter, keep writing, sharing, and shaping your book. Put your heart into it and enjoy the process. Your readers will thank you.
Janet Eriksson 