By Robert Lowery lll
“Sometimes we stare so long at a door that is closing that we see too late the one that is open.”
Alexander Graham Bell
Most people find it hard to even begin the journey of writing their book because they’re so focused on their past, their ability to communicate or the value they offer compared to others. Too many people see the opportunity thy have to impact millions of people with their book as a pipe dream because of the many self-sabotaging beliefs they cling to.
The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, and in this case, that step is your first 10,000 words. In this blog post, we'll explore five common roadblocks that often hinder aspiring non-fiction authors in their quest to write those initial 10,000 words. But don't worry, we'll also provide you with practical strategies to overcome these obstacles and set you on the path to success.
1. Perfectionism Paralysis. One of the most significant roadblocks many writers face is the need for perfection. You want your writing to be flawless from the get-go, which can paralyze your progress. Remember, writing is a process, and your first draft doesn't have to be perfect. In fact, it rarely is.
Solution: Embrace imperfection. Allow yourself to write badly, knowing that you can always revise and refine later. Focus on getting your ideas down on paper, you can polish them later.
2. Lack of Structure. Non-fiction books often require a well-organized structure to convey your ideas effectively. Without a clear outline or structure, you might find yourself wandering aimlessly in your writing.
Solution: Before you begin, create an outline that brings out the key points and chapters of your book. Having a roadmap will keep you on track and make the writing process much smoother. If you need help creating your book outline click here for help.
3. Procrastination Pitfalls. Procrastination is the cancer of many writers. It's easy to find excuses to avoid writing, but procrastination only delays your progress.
Solution: Set a writing schedule and stick to it. Whether it's a daily word count goal or a specific writing time each day, establishing a routine will help you stay on track.
4. Research Overload. Non-fiction authors often need to conduct extensive research for their books. While research is essential, it can also become a roadblock if you get lost in a sea of information.
Solution: Limit your research during the initial writing phase. Jot down key points or make placeholders for information you need to fill in later. Focus on writing first, then go back to refine and supplement with research.
5. Self-Doubt and Writer's Block. Self-doubt can be crippling, and writer's block can feel overwhelming. These mental roadblocks can hinder your creativity and leave you feeling discouraged.
Solution: Practice self-compassion and acknowledge that everyone, even established authors, faces self-doubt and writer's block. When you're stuck, write through it. Anything to keep the words flowing. You can always edit and improve later. Remember, the journey of writing a book is a marathon, not a sprint. Overcoming these roadblocks is a crucial step in reaching your goal of completing your first 10,000 words. Stay determined, keep writing, and don't let these obstacles derail your dreams of becoming an author.
Your knowledge and insights are valuable, and the world is waiting to hear your unique voice.
If you need help sharing your story click the link below to schedule a free consultation to determine your next step forward to becoming an author.
Your book is waiting to be written, and your readers are waiting to learn from you! Get writing, stay focused and turn your aspirations into reality!
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