“I have an idea and I’m going to write a book. I’ve never written anything before. But I think my idea is valid and I want to share it with the world. The best way to get my idea out there is to put it in book form.”
“I would like to build my credibility and my business by writing a book related to my profession.”
“I have this urge to tell my story and I want to tell it to as many people as I can reach. How better to reach them than through a book. I’ll write my story and present it as a book for the whole world to read.”
“I want to teach what I’ve learned about life. There are a lot of people suffering as I did for years and maybe my story will make a difference in the lives of many others.”
“People should stop eating so much junk food. If they knew the truth about the dangers of a steady diet of junk food, they would change their ways and maybe even lose weight. I’m going to write what I know about healthy eating and try to change the habits of millions of junk food junkies.”
“If he and she can produce a novel and sell a few copies, I should be able to write and sell my novel. My story is better than many I see on TV or in the movies and a lot better than those I’ve read, lately. I want to get people’s reaction to the amazing story that’s rolling around in my head, so I’m going to write a novel.”
“I’d like to earn a little money for my retirement years. I have the time now and I might as well spend it writing. I know I have a good idea for a book. All I need to do is write it. A publisher will do the rest. I should be able to collect thousands of dollars each year from royalties. Writing could be a lucrative pastime.”
“I’m told I have writing talent. I do love to write. Maybe I should put some of my stories in book form and see if I can get a publisher interested.”
Do you see yourself in any of these scenarios? I’ve known people in each of them. Is your story missing from this list? We’d like to have you share it with us.
No matter which of these stories resembles your own, there are two things you really should do before writing that book (or at least before seeking publication).
1: Study the publishing industry
2: Write a book proposal.
And there is one thing you need to do upon completion of your book: Hire a good book editor.