I have a Book Idea, What's Next?
by Edie Melson @EdieMelson
It’s exciting and a little scary to discover the seed of a book idea growing in your mind. It’s also easy to let that kernel of possibility die with neglect or even the wrong kind of care. Hopefully, this post will give you what you need to nurture your dream and help it grow.
Next Steps When You Have a Book Idea
Pray over it and over your writing! This isn’t a one-time prayer. Instead, make prayer your practice before you sit down at the keyboard!
Write it down. That may sound obvious, but many would-be writers only think about the idea. Things happen to our ideas when we sit and write them down in tangible form.
Play what-if. Now is the time to consider the possibilities. Will your idea work best as a novel or nonfiction book? Could it be a devotional or self-help? Think through all your options and choose the one that fits best.
Begin the habit of writing regularly. The bottom line is this—writers WRITE. They don’t just talk about writing or read about writing, they actually sit down and write. That practice takes discipline. So begin now!
Read, learn and grow. Yes, you must be writing. But it’s also important to learn the craft and industry of writing. Read books, visit blogs and attend events.
Hang out with other writers. Find a local or online writing group. It’s important to interact with others who are writing. We can provide encouragement for each other and help one another grow.
Submit your writing for critique. This one can be hard, but it’s critical for each of us to let others read what we’ve written. A writing group is a great place for this. It’s not enough to let a well-meaning family member or friend read what we’ve written. We need professional feedback—and that means other writers.
Find accountability. Writing is hard work. When we have another friend (or two) that holds us accountable, it can help us stay on track.
Volunteer. When we give back to the writing industry—even if it’s regularly helping clean up after a local meeting—we stay engaged. It can be easy to give up on our dreams. Staying active helps us move through the obstacles.
Find a writing mentor or a coach. This could be a formal arrangement, or it could happen because someone further along than you is in your local writing group.
These are my 10 suggestions for the next step when you have a book idea. I’d love to know what you’d add to the list! Be sure to leave your thoughts in the comments below. We’re all stronger when we come together to share what we’re learning.
Don't forget to join the conversation!
Blessings,
Edie
Edie Melson is a woman of faith with ink-stained fingers observing life through the lens of her camera. No matter whether she’s talking to writers, entrepreneurs, or readers, her first advice is always “Find your voice, live your story.” As an author, blogger, and speaker she’s encouraged and challenged audiences across the country and around the world. Her numerous books reflect her passion to help others develop the strength of their God-given gifts and apply them to their lives. Connect with her on her website, through Facebook, Twitter and on Instagram.
Featured Image: Photo by David Lezcano on Unsplash