So You Want to Write a Book? Here’s How to Start Without Feeling Overwhelmed

Consultant > Blog > Writing & Publishing > So You Want to Write a Book? Here’s How to Start Without Feeling Overwhelmed

You’ve got a story to tell. A message to share. An experience that could help others.
But every time you think about sitting down to write a book, your brain hits a wall:
Where do I start? What if I’m not good enough? Who would even read it?

You’re not alone — and you’re not wrong for feeling this way.
Writing a book is a beautiful journey, but it can feel like a mountain if you try to take it all in at once.

As a book writing coach and ghostwriter, I’ve helped professionals, educators, parents, and thought leaders bring their book ideas to life — even those who never thought they’d write a paragraph, let alone a full manuscript. And I can tell you this: the overwhelm fades when you start with the right steps.

Let’s get started:

1. Get Clear on Your Why

Before you worry about chapters, formatting, or titles, ask yourself:
👉 Why do I want to write this book?
Are you writing to teach, inspire, document, or market your expertise?
Knowing your “why” becomes your compass. It keeps you focused when self-doubt tries to creep in.

2. Don’t Start With a Blank Page — Start With a Brain Dump

Forget about writing in perfect order. Just pour out everything you know or feel about the topic — stories, tips, experiences, questions, quotes, case studies.
Use sticky notes, voice notes, or mind maps. You’re building content blocks, not final chapters.

This early process is where a coach or mentor (like me!) can help you organise and prioritise ideas.

3. Create a Simple Structure

Think of your book like a conversation with a beginning, middle, and end.
Outline your chapters or themes loosely. Don’t aim for ‘perfect.’ Just group similar ideas together.

A great trick? Ask yourself: If I were teaching this book to someone, what would the key lessons or topics be?

4. Set Realistic Writing Goals

You don’t need to write a chapter a day.
Try this instead:

  • 20 minutes of writing 3 times a week
  • One idea or story per writing session
  • A monthly word goal (e.g. 3,000 words)

Tiny, consistent steps lead to massive results — especially when paired with accountability.

5. Get Help — You Don’t Have to Do This Alone

Many people don’t realise they can write a book with support. You don’t have to be an expert in writing or publishing to get started.

Whether you need:

  • A book coach to guide you through the journey
  • A ghostwriter to bring your ideas to life
  • An editor to polish your message
    …you’re not “less of a writer” for getting help. You’re being strategic.

You’ve Got a Message the World Needs

Your voice matters. Your ideas are valid. And your story — no matter how personal, professional, or educational — could be the light someone else is searching for.

So instead of asking “Can I write a book?”, try asking:
“What’s the first small step I can take today?”

You already started by reading this. The next step? Let’s take it together.

✅ Ready to turn your book idea into a reality?

Let’s chat about how I can support you — whether as your coach, ghostwriter, or cheerleader.
📩 Click here to book a free discovery call.

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