You already know a non-fiction book is one of the quickest ways to stake your claim as an expert. But if you charge in without a plan, you risk months of stalled drafts and a finished product that doesn’t move the needle.
Set yourself up for a smooth writing process—and a book that actually meets your business goals—by working through these seven decisions first.
1. Pin Down Your Core Goal
Ask yourself, “When a reader turns the last page, what do I want to gain?”
Here are some common core goals authors set when writing a book—any one (or a combination) might resonate with your vision:
- Share Your Expertise & Build Authority
Position yourself as a thought leader in your field. By packaging your insights into a book, you gain credibility and open doors to speaking gigs, consulting, and media interviews. - Inspire or Transform Readers
Tell a story or teach lessons that shift perspectives, spark hope, or catalyze change. Your words become a vehicle for encouragement, healing, or spiritual growth. - Grow Your Audience & Generate Leads
Use your book as a strategic marketing tool. A well‑placed call-to‑action or free chapter download can drive new subscribers, clients, or partnerships back to your platform or services. - Leave a Lasting Legacy
Capture your life lessons, family history, or spiritual journey for future generations. A book endures beyond blog posts or social media—it’s something people can hold, revisit, and pass on. - Create a New Revenue Stream
Beyond direct book sales, a published work can unlock workshops, online courses, or licensing opportunities—turning one project into multiple income channels. - Process Your Own Journey
Writing can be profoundly therapeutic. By reflecting on your struggles, triumphs, or faith journey, you gain clarity and healing—and you model that vulnerability for others. - Educate & Train
If you’re passionate about teaching, your book can serve as a step-by-step guide or curriculum—whether that’s dog behavior techniques, marketing roadmaps, or faith-based devotionals. - Spark Community & Conversation
Craft a book that becomes a shared experience—a book club pick, a conference centerpiece, or a devotional guide—so readers can connect, discuss, and grow together.
Knowing your goal shapes content depth, price point, marketing copy—everything.
2. Choose Your Scope (Broad vs. Narrow)
A broad overview (“Everything About Pet Grooming”) feels comprehensive but makes follow-up books hard. A narrow slice (“Grooming Long-Haired Cats at Home”):
- Positions you as the go-to specialist.
- Lets you produce a second or third book without repeating yourself.
- Makes marketing easier because the promise is crystal-clear.
Tip: List every subtopic inside your niche. Circle the one that solves an urgent audience problem and leaves room for sequels.
3. Strengthen—or Start—Your Platform
Think of your platform as pre-sold readers. Even a modest audience that trusts you will outperform a giant list of strangers.
Start simple—60-Day Platform Sprint
- Blog weekly or repurpose LinkedIn articles.
- Email a short tip each week; invite replies to spark engagement.
- Podcast guest spots—pitch five shows in your niche for quick credibility.
- Social proof—share wins, snippets, and behind-the-scenes writing updates.
Budget one hour, three days a week. Consistency > perfection.
4. Map Your Research Gaps
Grab sticky notes or a digital mind-map and outline every chapter. Under each heading jot:
- Stats you need
- Case studies or stories to secure
- Quotes or scripture references to verify
Research in one batch keeps you from derailing creative flow later.
5. Pick a Publishing Path
| Route | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional | Advance $, bookstore distribution, editorial team | Long timeline, less control, requires agent/platform |
| Hybrid / Small Press | Some support + faster release | Up-front cost or lower royalty |
| Self-Publish | Full control, 70% digital royalty, launch in weeks | You hire editors, designers, manage marketing |
For most first-time thought-leaders, professional self-publishing offers speed and control. Budget for: editor, proofreader, cover designer, and maybe a launch publicist.
6. Measure Your Commitment Level
A book equals roughly 100–170 writing hours plus editing, design, launch. Reality check:
- Can you block at least 5–6 hours weekly for drafting?
- Are you willing to invest in professional editing and cover design?
- Will you push marketing once the book is live for 6–12 months?
If that still sounds exhilarating—fantastic. Put writing sessions on the calendar now, just like client calls.
Quick-Start Action List
- Define the single business goal your book must hit.
- Select one narrow, urgent problem you’ll solve for readers.
- Outline chapters and flag research gaps.
- Block recurring writing time in your calendar.
- Choose a publishing path and assemble your team.
- Launch or grow your platform for at least 60 days before release.
Do the thinking up front, and drafting becomes a sprint instead of a slog. Your future readers—and your future business—will thank you.
With you in the mess,
Courtney