Once a life coach always a life coach. I ask questions for a living… can you tell?
When it comes to embarking on, and most importantly completing, the journey of writing a book, it is not an accomplishment that comes without some struggle. Besides our own inner critic riding roughshod over us, we also have life interrupt us in other ways, as I covered in my eBook. One of the solutions I offered was coaching. Here are the four foundational questions I would explore with you if you were a client of mine–for both books and building a successful business by the way.
Who is the audience?
Who will be reading this book? Really draw a picture in your mind of them. Is it a woman or a man, how old are they, what do they do with their spare time? What kind of other books do they read, or magazines, what do they watch on television? By having a tight focus on who your audience is you will serve them better when you write.
What is the purpose?
Speaking of serving them better… why are you writing this book? Are you trying to entertain by getting your audience to feel an emotion? Are you trying to pass on life lessons? Are you doing it for the fame and fortune? No judgment here. Knowing why you are writing a book helps to focus you and helps to keep you on the path towards your goal.
How will your audience be changed?
This is pretty self-explanatory. Once I’ve read your book, how will I be different? Will I have spent a few sleepless nights because I couldn’t put your book down? Will I be talking with my friends about it? Will my life be sweeter or my burdens be lighter from the lessons I learn?
How will you be changed?
I was changed when I published my book. Beyond a doubt. I had a sense of accomplishment and pride that no one can ever take away. My book wasn’t on the New York Times bestseller list, It hasn’t made me enough money to buy a vacation home in Maui. But the mere fact that I wrote it, and it exists on my bookshelf and bookshelves of many other people has given me a sense of fulfillment and a sense of self-esteem I couldn’t have gotten anywhere else. But that’s me. What would it mean to you? How will you be changed?
There are a whole plethora of questions for you to dive into with your journal! Should you want to bounce them off of someone, don’t hesitate to reach out. I have many more clarifying questions in my coaching toolbox and I’m always happy to help.
We all know what it’s like when life gets in the way, especially if you are a writer. You’re also probably quite familiar with the inner critic that constantly throws up obstacles in your writing schedule. I’ve tackled that problem for you! Download your FREE eBook – How to Write When Life Gets in the Way!