How to Keep Yourself Motivated While Writing a Book » Succeed As Your Own Boss

Writing 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

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

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

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

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

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?

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

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

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.