Have you ever thought to yourself that one day you will write a book and become a known author?
Well, congratulations!
You already have a spark that many people don’t act on.
The truth is, writing a book is not just for literary geniuses, bestselling authors or people with endless time on their hands.
In fact, if you have a story, a message, a memory, a lesson or a dream that needs to be shared, then even you can write a book. I am speaking from experience.
Remember, your voice matters. Your experience matters. And more importantly, the world needs your story in your voice and not a polished version of someone else.
So, if you are quite excited to get started with your first book, this blog is for you. Whether you’re dreaming of publishing on Amazon or simply preserving your stories, my blog will help you discover your voice and turn the idea into a manuscript.
Grab a cup of hot chocolate or your favorite beverage, take a deep breath and let’s start this beautiful journey.
From Ideas To Manuscript – Top Tips For Writing A Book!
Deciding that you want to write your book is not enough. You need to take a step forward and actually get it done.
The good thing is that as someone who has quite experience with book writing, I know what works best and what doesn’t.
Below are the seven steps that each wordsmith recommends, including me. They include:
Step 1: Connect With Your “Why”
Never start writing your book until you are sure about your idea. Ask yourself why this story or message matters to you.
It is the heart of your novel.
The answer for “why” you actually want to write your ideas is the emotional engine that keeps you going even on days when you feel demotivated. Therefore, take your time and ask yourself:
- Why do i feel the need to write this book?
- What impact do I want it to have on readers?
- How do i want readers to feel when they finish it?
And it doesn’t matter if your answers are profound. It can be as simple as:
- I want my children to know my feelings
- I want to inspire people who feel lost
- I want to turn my knowledge into something meaningful and lasting
Once you have identified your answers, write it down! Stick it on your wall where you can see it daily. Make it your screensaver. Because sometimes even the most prominent authors feel a writing slump. And that’s when your “why” sparks the idea back to life, allowing you to continue your book.
Step 2: Discover Your Voice
Your voice is your authentic writer DNA. It is something you don’t invent or adapt. It is something you uncover.
How?
It is already inside you, shaped by your personality, humour, experiences and worldview. One correct move and you can discover your voice.
When I was writing my own book, I adopted these tricks, like:
- Writing the way I usually talk. This makes it natural, warm and effortless.
- Being a perfectionist, I always strived for better. However, I gradually realised there is no such thing as perfect writing. Instead, imperfection is where your personality shines.
- I let my emotions lead me. Therefore, if something makes your heart race, write it.
- I stopped comparing my voice to other authors as I realised that my uniqueness is my superpower.
Always think of your voice as the main character of your author identity. This is what makes your writing you.
One thing I have learnt in my writing career is that readers don’t fall in love with books because they are flawless. They fall in love because the voice feels real, honest and human.
So let your quirks and voice breathe on the page.
A Pro Tip: If you are having a tough time discovering your voice, consider seeking help from Book Writing Services in UAE. I even consulted with the professionals in my initial phases of book writing.
Step 3: Build A Clear, Simple Outline
Outlining is the best way to spark creativity. Think of it as a roadmap that stops you from getting lost midway through the book.
The best thing is that it doesn’t have to be perfect. Just keep it simple so that you have a better understanding of what you want to write.
Here is how it should look like:
- Start with your main idea.
- Break it into big sections or chapters
- Furthermore, add 5-6 bullet points under each chapter so that you know what you have to cover.
Additionally, if you are writing a fiction book, the outline must be like:
- Main characters
- Plot’s beginning, middle and end
- Big emotional beats
However, if you are writing nonfiction:
- Create chapters based on lessons, steps or themes.
- Make sure to decide the journey you want your reader to take.
Always remember your outline is not permanent. It is allowed to evolve as your story evolves. Think of it as a flexible guide that keeps your creativity flowing without losing direction.
Step 4: Create A Writing Routine You Actually Enjoy!
Let’s be honest! Many authors fail to finish their books, not because they can’t write but because they can’t stay consistent.
But let me tell you a secret.
Never create a writing routine that exhausts you. Instead, you need to choose the approach that feels good to you. Like:
- 15 minutes a day
- One hour every weekend
- Three to four focused writing sessions per week.
- Dictating your chapters on your phone while walking.
Being consistent can help you big time. Furthermore, a book written slowly and joyfully is far better than a book rushed. You have to create an environment that you love, like:
- A scented candle
- Your favourite playlist
- A cosy corner
- A journal or digital notebook that sparks joy
Writing can become enjoyable when you treat it like self-care and not a chore.
Step 5: Write Your First Draft Without Judging Yourself
Here is the hard truth! Your first draft will not be perfect. And that’s exactly how it should be. The rule number one in writing your first draft is that you have to be patient. Moreover, don’t edit while you are writing.
Why?
Because when you edit, you switch from creator to critic, and you can’t be both at the same time.
Your job while creating the first draft is simple:
- Get the story out of your head and on paper.
- Let your thoughts flow without filters.
- Ignore grammar, typos and flows.
Think of your first draft as setting up the foundation. Editing is where you sculpt it into something beautiful later.
Always remember to write bravely, don’t worry about people judging you and be proud of your draft even if it is bad, because while you can’t fix the empty paper, you can fix the words you have written.
Step 6: Edit With Purpose
It is finally time for you to make your draft shine. Are you done getting words on paper? Congratulations! The hardest part is already done!
Now it is time for you to refine the work with love, patience and intention.
Here is the editing flow I usually follow when I am working on the book. It includes:
- Taking a short break, like 1 -3 days so that I can return with fresh eyes.
- Reading the whole manuscript and highlights parts that feel slow, unclear or uninteresting.
- Editing in layers like structure, flow, voice, grammar and polish.
Always remember editing is where your voice becomes stronger, clearer and more confident. Moreover, you can always hire the Book Writers In Dubai who can help you refine the book while preserving your voice.
Even the beta readers can help you know how your book sounds.
The heart of your book should always feel like you. Therefore, don’t let editing erase your personality. Instead, let it elevate it.
Step 7: Share Your Book With The World
I know finishing a book is one thing. However, sharing it with other people, even strangers, can be scary. Doubts will creep up. You will probably wonder:
- What if no one likes it?
- What if I am not a real author?
- But if you want to be successful, then you have to overcome these doubts.
- What if people judge my writing?
Here is the truth!
Every author feels this. Even I felt it. However, that doesn’t mean you won’t publish your book. Your main aim is to get your message across to the readers. You can even seek the guidance from the Essay Writers UAE. Therefore, choose the right platform and get your book published now!
Final Thoughts: Your Voice Deserves To Be Heard
Writing a book is not just a creative project. Instead, it is an act of courage. It is the moment of expressing yourself. And the beautiful thing is that you don’t have to transform into a writer to begin. The moment you decide you have to write a book, you become one.
So stop doubting yourself. If you have an idea, I think it’s high time you start working on it.
Close your eyes.
Picture your finished book in your hands.
Feel the weight of it.
Imagine someone smiling, crying, or healing because of your words.
Now open your eyes…
and start writing the story only you can tell.