Naomi has always wanted to become a book author but she faces some challenges. She believes that her grammar is ‘poor’ and the ideas she generates are ‘lame.’ So, Naomi decided to forget about becoming an author. Every day, aspiring authors like Naomi kill their dream of becoming authors because they allow their fear to outgrow their faith. In this article, I'll review the ten biggest writing challenges aspiring book authors face and how to overcome these challenges.   Let's dive in... Ten biggest writing challenges aspiring book authors face Distraction Generating ideas Self-confidence Procrastination Perfectionism Over-editing Impostor syndrome Inconsistent writing Finding time to write Loose feedback loops   1. Distraction Life is full of distractions that can derail even the most dedicated writer. Whether it's the lure of social media, household chores, or other commitments, staying focused on writing can be a constant struggle. This is one of the biggest challenges new authors face.   2. Generating ideas Aspiring authors often find it hard to come up with a book idea, and this challenge is what impedes their goal of writing a book.   3. Self-doubt Many aspiring authors struggle with feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. They lack confidence in their fiction or nonfiction books.  As a result, they allow the idea sprouting in their minds to die a natural death.   4. Procrastination Procrastination has a crippling effect that can prevent an aspiring author from reaching their full potential. In addition, it makes aspiring authors rush to complete their books, and the quality of their writing suffers.   5. Perfectionism This often goes hand in hand with over-editing, as aspiring authors strive for flawlessness in their writing. They spend time thinking about how perfect they want their books to be instead of writing them. Even when they write something, they second-guess themselves without giving their work a chance.   6. Over-editing Many new book authors encounter this challenge during the course of writing. They spend hours rewriting what they’ve written instead of moving forward. They have the mindset that over-editing is necessary and spend too much time doing this. While it's essential to polish your work, excessive editing can stifle creativity and impede progress.   7. Impostor syndrome Imposter syndrome is when you feel like you're not as good as others perceive you to be, even though you're actually doing well. This condition often results in people feeling like a ‘’fraud" or ‘’phony" and doubting their abilities. Even accomplished writers have faced imposter syndrome sometimes, but it’s always worse for aspiring authors. They experience imposter syndrome because they don't believe in their abilities.   8. Consistent writing What differentiates pro book authors from new ones is consistent writing. Writing consistently is what pro authors do. Many young writers are not consistent because they find it hard to establish a writing routine, set realistic goals, and prioritize their writing time. 9. Finding time to write An aspiring author juggling multiple responsibilities and commitments will find it hard to carve out time to write. Experienced book authors know how to create time for all their activities, including writing.     10. Inadequate feedback New authors often lack access to quality feedback. This can hinder them from growing and developing into professional book authors. How to fix your writing challenges   1. Distraction: To handle distractions as an upcoming author, create a dedicated writing space, set specific writing times, use productivity tools like timers or website blockers, and practice mindfulness techniques for focus.    2. Generating ideas:  A good idea is what gives birth to a book. As an aspiring author, you can pick up a variety of ideas from conversations around you, movies, research, social media, etc. In addition, it’s always handy to have a notebook on hand for recording thoughts and observations, engaging in brainstorming exercises, and jotting down inspiration from other forms of art or literature. Most importantly, have an idea bank – an idea bank is your collection of ideas that you save from different sources and people. This helps to keep ideas flowing and acts as a source of inspiration.   3. Self-confidence:  As an aspiring author, try to surround yourself with supportive peers or mentors. Celebrate small achievements, challenge negative thoughts about yourself, focus on your own growth instead of comparing yourself to others, and be resilient when faced with setbacks.   4. Procrastination:  Identify and address reasons for procrastination, such as excessive social media streaming, fear of failure, or lack of motivation, and cultivate self-discipline through accountability measures. When the writing looks like a mountain, break your tasks into smaller chunks and set achievable goals and deadlines.   5. Perfectionism: To combat perfectionism , you’ve to get rid of unrealistic standards. Embrace imperfection as part of the creative process and focus on progress rather than perfection. 6. Over-editing: The best practice you can cultivate as an aspiring author is to allow your words to flow freely without editing anything. Not stopping to edit all the time will give you the chance to express yourself without fear or hindrances. You can edit after writing , but keep in mind that it’s not all about perfection; it’s about completing your book.   7. Impostor syndrome:  Pro writers also experience imposter syndrome. However, they learn to conquer it by refusing to feel inadequate, letting go of their childhood fears, talking with a mentor, thinking positively, or meditating often. Imposter syndrome is real, but you can learn to overcome it.     8. Consistent writing:  Writing is an art, and I always advise young writers to write on LinkedIn, Twitter, and any other social media they regularly use. Prioritize writing text messages over voice notes. In order to become more consistent as an aspiring writer, you have to set clear goals that you want to work towards. Doing this helps to increase your chance of succeeding as a writer.   9. Finding time to write:  To make writing part of you, you have to find time to write. There are several ways to go about this. You can cut down your social media streaming time, identify and eliminate time-wasting activities, schedule dedicated writing time, communicate boundaries with others, delegate tasks when possible, and make writing a non-negotiable part of your daily or weekly schedule.   10. Inadequate feedback:  Do you want to see yourself flourish as an aspiring book author? Then, seek feedback and get clarity and direction from experts. There are book writing coaches whose responsibility is to guide aspiring authors. If you want to grow, seek their help or get feedback from trusted sources such as beta readers, critique partners, or writing groups. Above all, be open-minded and receptive to constructive criticism. Use feedback as a tool for continuous improvement and refinement of your work.     Final Thoughts It’s a known fact that aspiring book authors face many challenges in their journey; however, these challenges should not stop you from following your dream. Face your challenges head-on; cultivate discipline, resilience, and a growth mindset. Remember that writing is a process of learning and growing. Every challenge overcome brings you one step closer to achieving your dreams of becoming a successful book author. Keep writing, keep persevering, keep winning, and above all, keep believing in yourself. About the Author Hello there! I'm Bridget Austin, a scriptwriter and content writer. You can often find me contributing articles on my blog, InkWrit , where I cover various topics related to book writing tips, book marketing strategies, and the art of storytelling. Feel free to drop by and explore the world of writing with me!

You started your year determined to meet your 2025 writing goals. In January, the ideas gushed out of you as fast as a burst water pipe. In February, you wished you could type as rapidly as your brain spat out the words. Then comes March … er … uhm, the flow has slowed considerably. Then nothing; the cursor's blinking, "I'm waiting," it seems to say accusingly. Writer's block got you? Every writer knows the struggle of staring at a blank page, waiting for inspiration to strike. Writer's block can be frustrating and demotivating, but it's a common hurdle you can overcome.   Conquering Writer's Block Try these tips to help you get past writer's block and get back to writing. Take a break Change your routine Change your environment Set realistic goals Brainstorm Use writing prompts Write freely Read for inspiration Chat with other writers Practice mindfulness Seek feedback Engage in the comments   1. Take a break I know, I know, everyone says 'take a break', but trust me, stepping away from that blinking cursor for a short while does work. A study on the analysis of writer's block found that the most common causes described by respondents were physiological and motivational. Writers stated that one of the most useful strategies for overcoming writer's block was to take a break from writing. Not sure what to do in this "break"? Try engaging in a different creative activity or doing some stretching exercises. Physical activity can improve your mental clarity and focus. I find that a refreshing beach walk or pottering in the kitchen works for me. Giving your mind a break from your writing project helps refresh your creativity and perspective. Try a different creative or physical activity. 2. Change your routine If it's your habit to write in the mornings, try writing in the afternoon or evening instead. Switch it up for a week or two and see what happens. Sometimes a simple switch in routine can positively influence your creative processes.   3. Change your environment A change of scenery can do wonders for your creativity. If you're stuck, try writing in a different location, such as a coffee shop, park, library, or even a friend's patio. A new environment can stimulate your brain and inspire new ideas. You can also try rearranging your workspace or adding some new decorations to spark creativity. A combination of a walk and a change of environment can work wonders. 4. Set realistic goals Break your writing task into smaller, manageable goals. Set a timer for 20-30 minutes and focus on writing without interruptions. Celebrate small victories to stay motivated.   5. Brainstorm Make a list of potential topics or story ideas, and then spend some time brainstorming ways to develop them. Use mind maps or other visualisation techniques to help you expand on your ideas and come up with new angles to explore. 6. Try writing prompts Writing prompts can help jumpstart your creativity. Use prompts to write about a different topic or explore a new genre. You might discover a new story idea or writing style.   7. Write freely Don't worry about writing perfectly. Permit yourself to write whatever comes to mind. The goal is to get words on the page, even if they're not perfect. You can always revise and edit later. Write first, edit later. Try this: Set a timer for 10-15 minutes and write down whatever comes to mind, without worrying about grammar or structure. This can help you get past the initial roadblock and get your creative juices flowing. 8. Read for inspiration Reading books, articles, or poems by writers you admire can spark new ideas and help you see things from a different perspective. Pay attention to the writing style, structure, and themes in the works you read. Read content in your genre, or explore something completely different. This can help you generate new ideas and approaches to your own writing.   9. Talk to other writers Join a writing group or connect with other writers online. Sharing your struggles and successes with fellow writers can provide encouragement and new insights. 10. Practice mindfulness Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing, can help calm your mind and reduce stress. A relaxed mind is more open to creative ideas. A book that helped me pick up some great breathing techniques Think Like a Monk by Jay Shetty, is worth a read. Try some breathing techniques. 11. Seek feedback Getting feedback on your work can provide valuable insights and help you see your writing from a different perspective. Consider joining a writing workshop or hiring a writing coach for personalized feedback.   12. Engage in the comments Commenting is something that works for me when I scroll social media platforms. Dropping meaningful comments works particularly well for LinkedIn (where I spend most of my SM-allocated time). Reading posts that spark my interest enough to get me to drop a comment inspires me. Engaging gets the creative juices flowing again. New ideas are frequently born from the comments section of posts. Try it for yourself and see what happens.   Final Thoughts: Stay Positive Writer's block is a common challenge that all writers face at some point, but it is a temporary setback. Yes, it can be frustrating, but don't let it stop you from writing. Remember that every writer faces obstacles. Overcoming them makes you a stronger writer. By trying different strategies, staying consistent, and seeking support from other writers, you can overcome writer's block and continue your writing journey. The key is to experiment and find what works for you.   Happy Writing Shamila ✍🏼 I f you're looking for more writing tips and support, consider working with a writing mentor. A writing mentor or coach can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, provide feedback on your work, and offer guidance and support as you explore the writing process. Contact me to learn more about how I can help you become a better writer and unleash your writing genie.

Don’t judge a book by its cover, they say.   But we do, don’t we? Browsing in a bookstore, whether online or in a physical store, our eyes are drawn to covers that stand out. First impressions count! Your Book Cover is Not Only About Aesthetics Your book cover is the face of your book’s personality. It needs to attract the right audience. The genre must match the reader and pique their interest. Imagine a cover that screams fantasy romance, but the story is actually about 19th-century serial killers. Your book cover should attract the reader you want. It should be what the book is about.   When choosing your cover design, think of it as an ad for your book and the back blurb as a movie trailer. Put some thought into it if you want your book to stand out in a highly competitive market.   I recently had some difficulty explaining this to a client. I wanted him to see how his cover could be used as a marketing tool to attract the right audience for his genre. However, the client was adamant about using the cover design he liked. His reasoning was based purely on aesthetics, but book covers have a larger role to play than that.   New authors must keep in mind that writing and selling a book is not just about writing. There is so much more to it. A well-edited  book is one aspect. A strategically designed book cover is another. Below are three examples of the covers of some classics. The Catcher in the Rye – an iconic cover that prominently uses the horse image focusing attention on the symbolism of horses throughout the book. Fahrenheit 451 – the original cover of this book perfectly encapsulates the prevailing elements of the story—fire and paper. To Kill A Mockingbird – this classic book's cover was redesigned for its 50th edition to modernize it. Authors, Don’t Disappoint Your Book You’ve worked hard to get your book to the ready-to-publish stage. The content is great and is eager to be gobbled up by your readers. However, you must first attract those readers to your book.   Instead of rushing to publish, take the time to choose the right cover. Hire a book designer if your Canva  skills are not up to scratch. Brainstorm with your book coach or ask your editor for feedback. 6 simple tips to make your cover stand out 1.           Make your title  prominent. 2.           Choose a font that’s easy to read. 3.           Keep it simple – don’t overcrowd the cover. 4.           Consider your genre’s style and your readers’ likes. 5.           Feature a theme from your book if you include an image. 6.           Don’t forget to pay attention to the back cover and blurb.   Remember, your book cover should communicate the content of your book and inspire readers to pick it up and buy it. The cover of a book is the beginning of a conversation between the author and the reader. ~ David Pearson If you have planned a series, ensure your  branding is consistent  throughout the entire series. Think Harry Potter. Patterson’s Alex Cross or a nonfiction series like The Lonely Planet’s travel guidebooks. What do they have in common? They are all instantly recognizable. Covers in a series are typically designed with a consistent look. The back cover When designing the cover of your book, don’t forget about the back cover. This is an essential component of the book, as readers can find more information about its content here. The “book blurb,” which provides a summary of the book's contents, is typically found on the back cover. An example of a back cover with a blurb and a tagline. Some authors include a tagline at the top. A tagline is a one-line brief description of your book—kind of like a teaser. In addition to the blurb, the back cover of your book can include either book reviews, more information about the author, or any awards or achievements you have received. An example of a back cover with peer reviews. The front cover of your book might attract the reader, but in many instances, the back cover seals the deal. It plays a pivotal role in convincing readers that this book is for them. Final thoughts Book covers are one of the best marketing tools at an author’s disposal. Ensure your book cover conveys vital information about your book’s genre, content, and tone. Don’t rush this step in your book writing and publishing process. Take your time and carefully consider what you want your cover to say to a potential buyer.   It's okay to be clever, but don't get carried away! In the digital age, book covers are more important than ever. They are the thumbnails that catch the eye of the reader, the icons that represent the brand of the author, and the symbols that convey the message of the book.   ~ Anonymous   What are your thoughts on book covers? Do they matter to you when choosing which book to buy?   Happy Designing Shamila I specialize in helping professionals write their first book. This includes coaching you from the first word through the writing process to publication and even beyond. Book a 60-minute clarity call where we'll chat about your book idea, your publishing goals, and how to get you started on your book-writing journey. The call includes a book outline strategy and chapter templates.

From learning how to train a badger to pickling nuts to dealing with micromanagers, there are hundreds of self-help topics to write about. And there is an audience for every topic. People want to learn. Everyone wants to improve.   But hold your horses; you can’t just willy-nilly pick any random topic. What do you know about pickling nuts?   Read on to find out how to choose the right topic for your book. 3 Steps to Help You Choose the Topic for Your Book 1. Choose a specific topic – narrow it down 2. Define your audience – i.e., your reader 3. Write about what you know and love   Before you even begin to gather your ideas and put together your book outline, carefully consider exactly what you want to say, who you want to say it to, and why you want to share it.   WHAT? WHO? WHY?   1. Your topic must be specific Don’t choose a topic that is too broad. One book cannot cover everything. Zoom in. For example, instead of choosing a broad topic like How to Train Your Badger, be more specific and narrow it down to something like How to Train Your Badger to Write Your LinkedIn Posts.   Note: Don’t confuse the topic with the book title. That comes later. (Although sometimes it can be the same thing.)   Your book topic answers the question, “What is this book about?” It covers the subject of the book, whereas the title is the name given to the book.   Do Nothing  is the title of the book in the image below. These two words don’t tell us what the book is about. However, the subtitle hints at what is covered in the book — its subject and the topic. Find an excellent summary of "Do Nothing" -->The Therapeutic Bookshelf (FB) 2. Define your audience A broad topic might not reach the audience you want to address. Determine who you believe would benefit from your solutions. Who will benefit from reading your book? Now write to that one type of person. This will help you focus and stay on track with your purpose, making your book more effective. For the Badger book, your audience will be badger owners who don’t have time to write their own LinkedIn posts. (The market is huge – tap into it now before someone else beats you to it.)   3. Your knowledge Choose a topic centered around what you know and what you are passionate about. Remember your why. Why do you want to write this book? Passion – pet badger and training it to do things for you. Writing content for LinkedIn. I want to share my passion and expertise with other badger owners who struggle to keep up with writing LinkedIn posts. Given the demand, I am confident that my ROI will be substantial.   “If there's a book that you want to read, but it hasn't been written yet, then you must write it.” ~ Toni Morrison Got Topic. What’s Next? Now that you have an idea for your topic, let’s chat about how you can start your book-writing journey and why coffee, or a straitjacket, is an essential ingredient. I am passionate about helping professionals write their first book. This includes coaching you from the first word through the entire writing process, publication, and even beyond. Are you ready to start your book-writing journey? Not sure where to start? Let’s have a chat. Your first consultation includes a complimentary book outline and chapter template. If I'm not reading, writing, walking, or learning how to pickle nuts, you can find me on LinkedIn . Shamila Iyer Autho coach and book editor

Did you know that your choice of pronouns in writing can make a significant difference in how you connect with your reader? For instance, using "we" in writing implies inclusivity, while using "you" makes readers feel you are talking directly to them. Using the first person ("I") to begin LinkedIn posts or blog articles appears to be gaining popularity. Is it because people love stories, and "I" implies a personal story? First-person pronoun - We, I. Second-person pronoun - You. The Role and Power of Pronouns in Content Writing These three simple words," I," "we," and "you," play an important role in shaping the tone of your content and strengthening your connection with your readers. With this in mind, I often emphasize the importance of selecting the right pronouns when mentoring new and aspiring writers. This article will examine how selecting the correct pronoun can enhance your writing and engage readers more effectively. The Power of "We" in Writing When we use the pronoun "we," it implies   inclusivity and unity . Using the pronoun "we" in writing creates a sense of community and shared purpose. It brings your readers into a collective experience, making them feel part of a group with common goals or challenges. We  can achieve more when we work together. Many brands and companies  use "we" to emphasize teamwork and collaboration. This suggests that the organization and the reader are working together towards a solution. We all know how challenging it can be to stay motivated during long projects. Collaborating and supporting each other helps keep the momentum going.   The Power of "You" in Writing "You" addresses the reader directly , making them feel more involved. It makes the content feel relevant and tailored to the individual. You  deserve access to high-quality education. Our platform offers a variety of courses to help you  achieve your learning goals. Using "you" in calls to action is highly effective; it speaks directly to the reader's needs and desires. You have the power to change your narrative. "You" in writing is action-oriented as it tells the reader what to do next. You can improve your writing by following these simple steps. Start by outlining your ideas clearly.   The Power of "I" in Writing "I" creates a personal connection  with your readers. Using "I" allows you, as the writer, to share personal experiences and insights, making your content more relatable and trustworthy. I faced this challenge, and here's what I  learned from the experience. People love stories, don't they? And the pronoun "I" naturally fits into storytelling. When we, as writers, share personal stories , our readers can relate to them and more easily feel connected to our content. I remember the first time I struggled with writer's block . It was frustrating, but I found a few techniques that helped push me through. Social media users, too, are discovering that sharing real-life experiences creates an emotional connection with their readers. There is an increasing trend towards personal storytelling in content writing, especially on platforms like LinkedIn and company blogs. Personal anecdotes and insights often lead to higher engagement because they evoke emotions and encourage readers to reflect on their own experiences. "I" is used effectively in personal anecdotes Why pronoun choice matters Choosing the right pronoun can make all the difference in how your message is received. Each pronoun serves a unique purpose and can enhance your writing in different ways:   "We" cultivates a sense of unity and shared experience, perfect for team-based initiatives and collaborative projects. "You" directly engages the reader, making the content feel personal and action-oriented. "I" brings authenticity and reliability, sharing personal stories, building trust, and credibility.   Here's an example of a motivational social media post using "we": We all face challenges, but it's how we overcome them that defines us. Let's keep pushing forward together. Do you see how the use of "we" creates a sense of 'we're all in this together'?   When to use each pronoun While it's important to understand the power of the three pronouns, you should also know when to use each to get the best effect. Use "we" when aiming to build a sense of community or partnership for team-based initiatives, collaborative projects, or company-wide messages We worked with Kaely to transform her business strategy. Together, we increased her revenue by 50%. (Case study success story)   Use "You" when you want to directly address the reader and make the content feel relevant to them in guides, how-to articles, and calls to action (CTAs)   So, you want to be a ghostwriter? This guide  covers everything you need to know about …   Use "I" when sharing personal stories, insights, or experiences for blog posts, LinkedIn articles, and any content where you want to establish a personal connection with the reader   I used to struggle with networking, but I've found some strategies that really work. Here's what I've learned.   3 Practical tips for using power pronouns When drafting your content, consider the following tips to use pronouns effectively: Clarify your purpose – determine what you want to achieve with your content. Are you building a community (we), giving direct advice (you), or sharing a personal story (I)? Know your audience – ensure you have a clear understanding of who you are writing for and what will resonate with them. Choose carefully – different pronouns evoke different responses. Choose carefully, but don't be afraid to use a combination of pronouns in longer pieces to vary the tone. This helps to keep readers engaged. The pronoun you select will depend on your goals and the message you want to convey. Using them prudently can enhance your content and help you connect with your audience in different ways.   Final Word By strategically using pronouns, you can elevate your writing and create content that resonates deeply with your audience. Whether you're writing a blog post, an email, or a LinkedIn article, give some thought to which pronouns you will use and why. The pronouns you choose can significantly impact the tone of your content and the connection you build with your readers. Whether you're cultivating a sense of community with "we," engaging directly with "you," or sharing a personal story with "I," your choice of pronouns can enhance your writing and make your message more powerful. As a writing coach , I'm here to help you understand these types of nuances and to improve your writing skills. Reach out if you need personalized guidance or tips on how to make your writing more impactful.   Happy Writing Shamila   Note: This article talks about using first-person pronouns (I, we, you) in content writing . In most academic writing , one of the first rules is to avoid first-person pronoun usage. It is considered not formal or objective enough, although, in some instances , academic writers do use "I."

It used to be just celebrity memoirs. The average person didn’t think their life was interesting enough, so we stuck to writing fiction. But memoirs from  ordinary people   like you and me have seen a boom in the last decade. It turns out readers care about the mundaneness of our everyday lives. Even more, they care about stories that inspire them.  Stories that are relatable, true, and carry enough vulnerability to make them feel like imperfectly perfect humans. Still, you can’t just write a memoir because everyone else is doing it. You can’t just write a memoir because it feels good to be an author, or because you know how powerful words are, and how damaging they can be when used for revenge.  No, you have way more integrity than that. That’s why you are here, reading this article. You want to know before you take the plunge and do this incredibly brave thing if your story is worthy of a memoir.  But first, what is a memoir?  Can my story make a good memoir? Defining a Good Memoir Celadon Books  defines a memoir as a narrative written from the author's perspective about a significant part of their life.   While that’s perfectly true, on a deeper level, I define memoir as an introspective story born from the author’s experience and memory. It’s a story born out of a need to connect, to shine a light on our collective human condition, and provide the reader with tools and encouragement to navigate life better.  We don’t write memoirs because our stories are better than anyone else’s. If anything, we write memoirs because we have come to the realization that, on a basic level, we are all the same. And, if we are, then we can connect and inspire each other through our shared experiences.  I’ve always believed that a good memoir (or really any good piece of writing) must leave the reader better than they found it. So, if you are going to write your memoir, it can’t just be for the sake of entertainment. It has to be a story that leaves your reader a better version of themselves.  But how can you know your story is going to leave your reader better than they found it?  4 Traits That Make Your Story a Great Memoir  It’s Transformational  It’s inspirational  It’s Didactic  It’s Directional    Let’s break them down.    It’s Transformational  Did you go through a transformation in the process of your story? Do you consider yourself renewed, improved, or better? If your past self saw your present self, would they be impressed? Relieved? Overjoyed?   Great stories never leave the characters the same. There’s always growth and development. That’s why you get frustrated when you watch a TV series and it’s season 7 but your favorite character still hasn’t undergone any change or growth.  Your memoir must demonstrate the change you underwent and the growth and results of that change. Your transformation must be evident to the reader by the end of the book. If there is none, if you yourself cannot admit right now that you grew for the better (and not in a prideful way), then maybe don’t write your memoir.  It’s possible that you are still in that phase of being transformed, that your scars haven’t healed. And, if you are worried that you will never get to that stage where you can share your story, or that your transformation will somehow go unnoticed, I promise you, transformations are impossible to miss.  In “Finding Me,” we see a woman transform from a scared, abused little girl into a woman who discovers the wonder and power of who she is. —image by Jerry Dhaliwal on Pinterest. It’s Inspirational  The best stories are inspiring, even fiction, and they are always the ones that stay the longest in the reader’s mind. Would you consider your story inspiring? Has anyone ever heard it and shook their head in awe? I once wrote the story of a mom who gave birth to a child who would be dependent on her for the rest of his life, for everything. He would not grow as other children do; he would never graduate from high school, attend college, secure a job, or get married. He would always need constant care and attention for the rest of his life. She gave birth to this child while her second child, still a toddler, was suffering from leukemia. By all accounts, she should be devastated, depressed, maybe even suicidal. And she was devastated. She was depressed. She did cry. But you know what I found truly inspiring about her story? The joy and love on her face for her children when I interviewed her. To know that your child would be a burden on you for the rest of your life and still love them unconditionally? Now that’s inspiring.  My problems paled in comparison to hers, and I was inspired to live with gratitude and empathy. Your story doesn’t have to be as weighty as this. Even seemingly unimportant stories can inspire. You have no idea.  In “When Breath Becomes Air,” even though the author dies, we are inspired by his handling of his illness and reminded to live life with more intentionality. Image from Cupofjo on Pinterest It’s Didactic  What did your story teach you? What did you learn from it? A good memoir is didactic; it gives the reader lessons to help them navigate life better. If the journey of your story didn’t teach you anything, how can you be certain it will teach your reader something? You are the first recipient of the benefits of your story. The first one who learns from your experience, and because of that, is determined to share with others what you have learned. So, what have you learned? What did your story teach you? If you can write down those lessons easily and with gratitude, then you know you have a great memoir.  And, you know the beauty of a truly good memoir with deep lessons? Everyone comes away with something different, something they can uniquely apply to their own situation.  I think it’s important to read books from a time before you existed. Especially books about your history and people. By reading the experiences of those who came before you, there’s so much you can learn about yourself. Image by Josefinas on Pinterest It’s Directional  If a reader were going through the same thing you did, could your book provide a step-by-step process on how to navigate it? Can you confidently say, “These are the steps I took during my journey. It helped me, and that’s how I know it can help you.”  Hybrid memoirs have this trait; they are often a combination of your personal stories and educational or directional content that helps the reader navigate whatever you have survived.  What I loved about this memoir is that it highlights the complexity of breaking free from a toxic familial bond. And what I doubly loved is that it showed that, while difficult, it can be done. —image by Princess and Pages on Pinterest. In conclusion  When a reader picks up your memoir, they do so with a promise from you that you have something worthwhile for them. It’s your duty to uphold it from the decision to write to the writing itself.  Don’t just write your story because you can, write to connect, inspire, and transform.  Hi, I’m Ezinne Njoku; Ghostwriter and Editor of unforgettable stories. I'm a lover of great stories, and of the people who write, and have lived through them. I think of helping to tell stories as a calling, a gift that God has purposely given to me. My faith is at the core of my work. That’s why I work to deliver only the truest and most impactful stories.  My specialty is stories that explore the human condition. Stories that drive change, inspire transformation, teach grace, humility, resilience, and love. The ones that yearn to connect with the reader and are unafraid to tell the truth.  What is your story? Are you ready to tell it?  Reach out ,  and together we will craft an unforgettable story and leave a lasting legacy.

As a ghostwriter, you can use your portfolio to showcase ghostwritten projects. FAQ: How do I showcase my ghostwritten projects in my portfolio? Content writers new to the freelance world often pop up in my LinkedIn DMs seeking guidance on how to get started as a freelance writer. One of the topics that frequently comes up in our discussions centers around building a credible portfolio. Many new freelance writers I chat with began their writing careers as ghostwriters on freelance platforms like Upwork and Fiverr. In most cases, they have nothing else to use to build up their portfolios, so they would like to find some way of including their ghostwritten projects. The problem: They are not the authors credited with the writing projects they work on, which makes it difficult to add the projects to their portfolios. If you find yourself in this conundrum, read on to find out how you can showcase your ghostwriting projects in your portfolio without running into problems with your clients. But before we dive into how to add your ghostwritten projects to your portfolio, let's look at some other questions that need answers first. Do I have to have a portfolio? Yes. As a freelance writer, it helps to have a portfolio to showcase your writing. Clients prefer to see samples of your written work before hiring you. Having your writing samples in a portfolio is one of the most efficient ways of presenting them. There are many free online sites available to help you build a good digital portfolio. Some are easier to use than others. Do your comparison research thoroughly and choose the one that best suits the work you want to display. Check out sites like: 1. Journo Portfolio – Specifically designed to create digital portfolios and easy to use. This site offers pre-built templates and supports a high level of customization. 2. Clippings.me – A highly visual, free portfolio maker used primarily by journalists and writers. 3. About.me – Create a personalized homepage highlighting who you are and what you do. Used by freelancers and entrepreneurs to grow their audience. Offers free and paid plans. 4. Squarespace – Offers template options for portfolios and add-ons for selling products and services. 5. Behance – A social media platform that allows you to showcase your work for free. Connect to your Adobe Portfolio. Used mostly by designers but hosts all creatives. 6. Wix – An all-in-one website builder similar to WordPress, which allows you to build your site for free. The site offers both free and paid plan options. Easy to use and navigate. Free templates. 7. WordPress – A website-building site similar to Wix. Popular with bloggers. It offers over 1000 themes and templates to help you build your portfolio. Includes free and paid plan options. 8. Adobe Portfolio – Create your portfolio or build a personalized website to showcase your work. Free if you have a Creative Cloud subscription.   When building your portfolio, include a diverse range of your work. This will demonstrate your versatility as a writer and give potential clients a comprehensive view of your capabilities. Remember to update your portfolio regularly as you gain more experience and add new projects. Can I display ghostwritten work in my portfolio, and how do I do that? You can display your ghostwritten projects on your portfolio page. However, you must always consider your confidentiality and legal agreements  with your clients before doing so. An NDA (non-disclosure agreement) is a legally binding document that creates a confidential relationship between you and your client. Ghostwriting projects are typically conducted under a non-disclosure agreement (NDA), so it's important to verify if you can showcase them publicly.   No NDA? You will still need to request permission directly from the client to display parts of the work or links to blog articles. Remember, the work belongs to your client, not you. What if I cannot get hold of the client, or they don't give me permission? In that case, here are a few ways you can work around this problem:   1. Use general descriptions: Provide a general overview of the project and the type of work you did without disclosing specific details or the client's name.   2. Showcase the genre/niche: Mention the genre of the book you worked on without revealing the title or the author's name. The same goes for the subject area or niche of the article you worked on.   3. Share the results: Highlight the book's success, such as whether it was a bestseller or received great reviews or if your blog article garnered many views or positive feedback. If it ranked high on Google's first page, definitely mention this.   4. Use before and after examples: Display excerpts of the writing before and after editing or rewriting without revealing the client's name or the book or blog's title. Use screenshots.   5. Create a page for ghostwritten projects: Create a separate page on your website for ghostwritten projects and password-protect it so only potential clients can view it. Example: Two pages from my writing portfolio on Wix. It is crucial to be transparent about the fact that certain projects in your portfolio are ghostwritten. This transparency will build trust with potential clients. You can also mention that you cannot disclose the client's name due to a non-disclosure or confidentiality agreement. With the right approach and respect for your client's rights, it is possible to showcase your work and build a strong portfolio.   Happy Portfolio Creating Shamila When I first ventured into the world of freelance content writing, I took on a few ghostwriting projects (books and articles). Since then, I've moved on, but I still refer to some of these projects in my portfolio. Knowing that I have a writing background helps to establish more confidence in my coaching and editing clients. I bring my author and writing experience into my coaching and editing work. Book a free 15-minute chat to discover how I can help you with your writing goals.

"A ghostwriter is like a chameleon, adapting to different styles and voices to create a seamless narrative." - Roz Morris, ghostwriter and author. A chameleon – I felt exactly like one when I immersed myself in the world of ghostwriting in 2021 and 2022. My family started calling me a walking encyclopedia when I couldn't settle into one topic niche but explored them all. My brain felt like it was exploding with all the different voices I had to emulate and the countless facts I had accumulated. I covered everything from journeying into the world of data analytics to exploring the benefits of petroleum jelly. While ghostwriting can be a fascinating adventure, it is also a good way to turn your writing skills into a profitable career. This guide covers everything you need to know to begin your ghostwriting journey. Contents: 1. What is Ghostwriting? 2. Why do People Need Ghostwriters? 3. Famous People Who Used Ghostwriters 4. What Are the Most Popular Ghostwritten Content Types? 5. A Deeper Look into the Difference Between Articles and Books 6. Getting Started as a Ghostwriter 7. What Not to Do as a Ghostwriter 8. Where Can a New Writer Find Ghostwriting Jobs? 9. How Much Do Ghostwriters Get Paid? 10. Resources 11. Final Thoughts What is Ghostwriting? Ghostwriting is the practice of writing for someone else, usually for a fee, and not receiving credit for your work. In other words, you write content that is attributed to your client. It's a good way for new freelance writers to enter the market and practice their writing skills. Many busy professionals and high-profile individuals require quality content to promote their businesses and brands. Ghostwriters are often hired to write blog posts, articles, social media content, speeches, and even books. I read somewhere that more than 50% of non-fiction books on the bestseller lists have ghostwriters hidden behind their covers. Some in the industry say it's possible that this number could be as high as 90%. Does this surprise you? Read on to find out why these numbers could be so high. Why do People Need Ghostwriters? There are three main reasons why business professionals and authors choose to use ghostwriters. 1. Time Constraints They don't have the time to do it themselves. Writing a book can be time-consuming, and for an author with a busy schedule, it may not be feasible to devote the necessary time and attention to writing a book. In such cases, a ghostwriter can be an excellent option, as they can take care of the writing process while the author focuses on other aspects of their work or personal life. Running a business can be incredibly time-consuming, leaving little time for writing a book. Hiring a ghostwriter allows a business person to focus on their core competencies while still having a book published under their name. 2. Lack of Writing Skills or Experience Writing a book requires a certain level of skill and experience, and not all authors have the necessary writing skills to complete a book on their own. A ghostwriter can help in such cases by writing the book on the author's behalf while preserving the author's ideas and voice. A poorly written blog can damage a business's reputation and credibility, but a professional ghostwriter can ensure the content is polished and error-free. A skilled ghostwriter can conduct research and write content relevant to the business's industry, target audience, and marketing goals. 3. Need for Objectivity Writing a self-help book, for example, can be a very personal and emotional process, and an author may find it difficult to maintain objectivity when writing about their own experiences and ideas. A ghostwriter can help in such cases by providing an objective perspective and ensuring that the book is written in a way that will resonate with readers. Famous People Who Used Ghostwriters Many bestselling authors, celebrities, and public figures work with ghostwriters to help write their books, memoirs, or autobiographies. V.C. Andrews wrote the "Flowers in the Attic" series with ghostwriter Andrew Neiderman. George Lutz worked with ghostwriter Jay Anson on "The Amityville Horror." Miley Cyrus and Tori Spelling worked with Hilary Liftin to write their memoirs. Siobhan Curham had Zoella (Zoe Sugg) help her write the novel "Girl Online." Richard Branson partnered with Edward Whitely to produce "Losing My Virginity." Wayne Rooney collaborated with Hunter Davies and Chris Hunt to write his books. J.R Moehringer, the highest paid ghostwriter in the business, penned Prince Harry's memoir. Ghostwriter Daniel Paisner has ghostwritten over 50 books for celebrities, including Serena Williams and Denzel Washington. These are just a few examples, but there are many more ghostwriters out there who have worked on a wide range of projects, from novels and memoirs to speeches and articles. According to some academics, even Shakespeare couldn't keep up with his own genius; he used a ghostwriter for some of his works! Did Shakespeare use a ghostwriter? That is the question. What Are the Most Popular Ghostwritten Content Types? Ghostwriting is a versatile service that can be applied to a wide range of content types. Some of the most popular ghostwritten content types include: Books: Ghostwriting books, especially memoirs, autobiographies, and self-help books, is one of the most common types of ghostwriting. This includes both traditional print books and e-books. Blog posts and articles: Many companies and individuals hire ghostwriters to create regular blog posts and articles for their websites or social media channels. These posts can cover a wide range of topics and industries. Social media posts: Some businesses and individuals hire ghostwriters to create posts for their social media channels, including Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. George Takei, known for his role in Star Trek, has a ghostwriter penning his Facebook and Twitter posts. Scripts and screenplays: Ghostwriters may also write scripts for YouTube videos, podcasts, television shows, movies, or other forms of media. Song Lyrics: Yes, even rappers and other artists in the music world commission ghostwriters to write for them. Nas ghostwrote Will Smith's classic 'Gettin Jiggy Wit It.' Bruno Mars was the writer behind Adele's "All I Ask." Speeches: Political figures, business leaders, and other public figures often hire ghostwriters to create speeches for them to deliver at events or on television. Barack Obama, well known for his eloquent speeches, had speech writer Jonathan Favreau composing his speeches. White papers: Companies may hire ghostwriters to create detailed reports or white papers on industry trends, new technologies, or other topics of interest to their audience. Academic papers: Some academics may hire ghostwriters to help them write research papers or other academic documents. Other content types: emails, newsletters, web copy, case studies, and online course material. Some ghostwriters specialize in more than one genre or content type. For instance, I ghostwrite SEO articles and self-help books . A Deeper Look into the Difference Between Articles and Books Ghostwriting for articles and books requires strong writing skills and the ability to research and organize information effectively, but there are significant differences in length, format, and style. Articles are shorter pieces of writing that can range from a few hundred to a few thousand words. They are written for online publications or magazines and are intended to inform, entertain, or persuade readers on a specific topic. Ghostwritten articles are more focused on providing useful information to readers and require some research and expertise in the topic area. Books are much longer and more complex than articles. Ghostwritten books can be anywhere from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of words long and are often written in a narrative format. Ghostwritten books can take several months or even years to complete and may require extensive research, multiple interviews with the author, and collaboration with publishers and editors. Books are also typically more personal and reflective than articles, as they are often written in the author's voice and tell a story or share insights into the author's life or work. Getting Started as a Ghostwriter If you are considering becoming a ghostwriter, here are some tips to help you get started: Find Your Niche Like any other freelance writing career, finding a niche in which you excel is important. Specializing in a particular area will allow you to charge higher rates and make marketing your services easier. When I began my ghostwriting adventure, I explored a range of niches until I found the ones that interested me the most, and I focused on those. Experience and Skillset You don't need ghostwriting experience, but you should have writing experience, research skills, and some editing skills. Be capable of interviewing people and be able to write on a variety of topics. Read widely to become familiar with different types of texts and styles. Being adaptable and able to write in a variety of styles is crucial to success in this field. Network Building relationships with potential clients is crucial to building a successful ghostwriting career. The best way to find clients is through networking. Attend industry events, join writing groups, and connect with professionals in your niche on LinkedIn. Practice Confidentiality Confidentiality is one of the most important aspects of ghostwriting. Your clients trust you with their personal and professional information, and it's crucial that you maintain their trust by keeping all information confidential. You can only disclose who your clients are or display their work in your portfolio if you get their permission first. Understand Your Client's Voice Voice refers to the style, tone, and personality of the writing; it's what makes the writing unique and engaging. As a ghostwriter, you need to be able to write in a way that sounds like your client wrote the content. Finding the right voice for a piece of writing can be challenging, especially for new writers. One way to do this is to review your client's previous writing to get a sense of their writing style. You can also ask your client about their preferred writing style and any specific tone or voice they want to convey. It's essential to remember that you're writing for your client's audience, not your own. This means you need to adapt your writing style to suit the audience you're writing for. For example, if you're writing for a more formal business audience, you may need to use more professional language. Ultimately, finding the right voice takes practice and experimentation. With time and experience, you'll develop the skills and confidence to write in a variety of voices and styles, making you a more versatile and valuable ghostwriter. (Welcome to the world of chameleons.) "The best ghostwriters are the ones who can capture the voice and style of the person they are writing for." - Tony Schwartz, ghostwriter and author. What Not to Do as a Ghostwriter If you are new to the ghostwriting niche, here are some dos and don'ts to keep in mind: 1. Do not expect credit for your work. 2. Do not brag about your clients or showcase their work. 3. Do take pride in your work even if your name is not on it. 4. Do not accept low rates. Never undersell yourself. 5. Do negotiate with clients for a fair rate. 6. Do not jump into ghostwriting without fully understanding what a ghostwriter does. 7. Do create original content at all times. Never copy and paste work attributed to others. This is a form of plagiarism . Where Can a New Writer Find Ghostwriting Jobs? There are several ways for a new writer to find ghostwriting jobs: Freelance platforms: Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer allow freelancers to create profiles and bid on ghostwriting jobs that clients post. Job boards: Websites like Indeed and Glassdoor have job listings for ghostwriters. You can also sign up for email alerts for new job postings. Referrals: Ask friends, family, or colleagues if they know of anyone who needs a ghostwriter. Social media: Use social media platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter to network with potential clients and showcase your writing skills. Ghostwriting agencies: There are agencies that specialize in ghostwriting services, and you can reach out to them and submit your writing samples for consideration. Publishers: Many publishing companies hire ghostwriters to provide an additional service option to their authors. Guest posting: Showcase your writing skills and grow your portfolio by writing guest posts on blogs. Ghostwriting jobs can be competitive, so it's important to have a strong portfolio, excellent writing skills, and good communication skills to succeed in this field. Additionally, get used to the fact that you won't receive credit for the work you do, as ghostwriting is a confidential service. How Much Do Ghostwriters Get Paid? The payment for ghostwriters can vary widely based on the complexity of the project, the length of the work, the expertise and experience of the ghostwriter, and the type of publication or medium. Ghostwriters can earn anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per project. For example, a ghostwriter working on a short e-book or long-form blog article may earn between $500 to $2,000, while ghostwriting a full-length non-fiction book could pay anywhere from $3,000 to $20,000 or more. The payment for ghostwriting a memoir or autobiography can also vary widely, ranging from $5,000 to over $50,000 (for celebrity ghostwriters). Many ghostwriters work on a project basis, charging a flat fee for their services, while others may charge by the hour. Some ghostwriters may also receive a percentage of royalties or profits generated from the work they helped create, particularly for larger book projects. On freelance platforms such as Upwork and Fiverr, blog article rates range from $5 to $50 or more for a short blog post. When searching for jobs on freelance platforms, it is important to keep in mind that $5 and even $10 is not a fair fixed price rate for a blog article. Ultimately, the payment for ghostwriting work depends on various factors, and ghostwriters must negotiate a fair rate for their skills and experience. Resources In addition to this how-to guide, here are some other ways you can learn about ghostwriting: Books and articles: The Freelance Writer's Handbook by Andrew Crofts and Secrets of a Ghostwriter by Isabel Wolf. Online Courses: Find courses that teach the fundamentals of ghostwriting on popular platforms such as Udemy, Skillshare, and Masterclass. Professional Organisations: Joining a professional organization such as the Association of Ghostwriters is a great way to network with other ghostwriters. Online forums and communities: Connect with other ghostwriters and share tips and advice through online communities such as the r/Ghostwriting subreddit. Mentorship programs: Some experienced ghostwriters offer mentorship programs to aspiring writers. Look on platforms such as LinkedIn. Some may even be in your network. Final Thoughts Ghostwriting is an important and often misunderstood specialization in the writing industry. Many people have heard of ghostwriting but may not fully understand what it entails. In essence, ghostwriting involves writing content for someone else without receiving credit. Ghostwriters work behind the scenes to help their clients convey their ideas and messages effectively, often adapting their writing style to match that of their clients. To become a successful ghostwriter, you must have excellent writing skills, a strong understanding of the subject matter, and the ability to adapt to different writing styles and tones. Some of the most popular types of ghostwritten content include books, blog posts, articles, speeches, white papers, social media posts, and scripts. If you want to become a ghostwriter, there are several ways to find job opportunities, including networking, freelance websites, and job boards. While ghostwriting can be a lucrative career, it is important to remember that confidentiality and professionalism are essential to success in this field. "A ghostwriter is a professional who can write anything, anytime, anywhere." - Noreen Wald, ghostwriter and author. Shamila Iyer - Author, writer, and writing coach. If you found this article helpful, please share it with other aspiring writers who would like to enter the ghostwriting niche. Want to learn more about my journey into ghostwriting or how I can help you with your writing? Schedule a call to chat about your needs.

Self-improvement books didn't magically jump out of "Think Positive" mugs to grace the shelves of our bookstores. They've been around for centuries – in some form or the other. Let's take a brief look at their origins. The self-help phenomena Self-help Books: From Ancient Roots to Bestseller Lists While early Egyptians did not have Pinterest to curate their aesthetic, they did have Sebayt  scrolls. Like papyrus post-it notes, these scrolls had tips on everything from manners to morals. Ancient wisdom on leadership Fast forward to medieval Europe, where conduct books were all the rage. Think of them as Emily Post for knights, offering etiquette advice like, "Don't pick your teeth at the banquet table, Sir Reginald," and "Remember, chivalry isn't just for jousting," and "How to blow your nose in polite society."   Then came the 19th century and the "pull yourself up by your bootstraps" mentality. Enter Samuel Smiles, the godfather of modern self-help. His book, Self-Help , was a Victorian blockbuster, urging readers to embrace thrift, hard work, and "moral muscle." Picture a TED Talk delivered by a stern Victorian uncle, and you get the gist.   How to Win Friends But self-help wasn't all stoicism and stiff upper lips. The 20th century saw the rise of pop psychology and motivational gurus like Dale Carnegie. How to Win Friends and Influence People  (published in 1939) still tops the list of best self-help books. Suddenly, self-improvement wasn't just about morals and chivalry but also about mastering the art of the back pat and the winning elevator pitch . How to Win Friends and Influence People - Dale Carnegie. First Edition Signed By the mid-60s, the humble self-help book leaped into cultural phenomenon status. Major themes emerged, including self-management, growth, relationships, and identity. Books such as Psycho-Cybernetics, A New Way to Get More Living Out of Life , Pursuit of Loneliness , and Men are From Mars, Women are From Venus  were on bestseller lists.   And here we are in the 21st century, where self-help has exploded into a billion-dollar industry. Despite much criticism over the years, the genre is still growing , with more focus on work-life balance. From productivity hacks to mindfulness mantras, there's a book for every angle of your well-being. Marie Kondo is decluttering your closets, Brené Brown is teaching you vulnerability, and somewhere, a squirrel is probably writing a guide on nut hoarding efficiency. It's a self-help buffet. The rise of self-help tweets. Is There Space on the Self-Help Shelf? You're probably thinking that the self-help shelves are already groaning, but that's just the mainstream. There are niches crying out for your unique perspective, your lived experiences, your quirky wisdom. Be the author who breaks the mold, who writes the book that no one knew they needed until they held it in their hands. A genre hungry for fresh voices. A world of stories waiting to be told. So, pick up your pen, tap away at your keyboard, and unleash the self-help guru within. The world is waiting for your story.   Within the self-help/self-improvement book genre, there are many niche topics to choose from. Which one is yours? 1. Personal development 2. Business and Leadership 3. Parenting 4. Personal Finance 5. Career and Productivity 6. Mental and physical health 7. Relationships 8. Communication 9. Support and guidance 10. Religious and spiritual 11. Inspirational Memoirs 12. Journaling and creative expression   Like I said before, it's a self-help buffet. An array of self-help books – how many have you read? Ready to turn your expertise into a book that empowers and inspires? Not sure how to get started? Let's chat! As a book editor and coach specializing in non-fiction, I'm here to help you take your manuscript from dream to publish date.   The self-help world awaits your unique voice. Shamila Iyer - your content partner from idea to publication. (Acknowledgment: 'How to Win Friends' and the Tweet book were sourced from Google images.)

Are you a first-time non-fiction author wondering how to get your book published? Do you go the traditional route and seek out a literary agent? Or do you take matters into your own hands and self-publish? What about hybrid publishing or crowdfunding publishing? With so many different book publishing routes available today, deciding which is right for you can be overwhelming. As someone who is passionate about book writing, I am determined to help aspiring authors fulfill their book publishing dreams. That's why I've put together this guide, which breaks down the advantages and disadvantages of each publishing route. I've also included some examples of non-fiction bestsellers that have succeeded using each method. Whether you're a self-help trailblazer or a science buff, this article will provide you with valuable insights into the different publishing options available to you. So, sit back, grab a cup of coffee, and let's get to it! What's in this guide? The three different publishing routes plus one extra Choosing the right path for your non-fiction book Making a decision—factors to keep in mind Final thoughts 1. The three different book publishing routes I. Traditional Publishing This is the most traditional route for publishing a book. Authors submit a book proposal to a literary agent or publisher, who decides whether to represent or publish the book. The publisher takes care of editing, design, printing, distribution, and marketing of the book. This route typically offers advances and royalties to the author. My books have been published using this publishing route. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of going down the traditional publishing path. Advantages Publishers carry the costs and take the risks. Access to professional editing, design, printing, distribution, and marketing services. Prestige and validation from being published by a reputable publisher. Possibility of receiving an advance payment and royalties. Wider distribution and bookstore placement. Disadvantages Waiting to hear back (acceptance) after submission can take 6-12 weeks. High competition and difficulty in getting published by a traditional publisher. Longer publishing timeline, as publishers typically take 1-2 years to bring a book to market. Less control over editorial decisions and book design. Lower royalty rates compared to self-publishing. Some of the world's top traditional book publishing companies include Penguin Random House, Macmillan Publishers, Simon & Schuster, and HarperCollins. Smaller publishing houses, also known as Indie publishers , include Soho Press, Graywolf Press, Akashic Books, and Qwirk Books. When choosing which publisher to approach, look for those with a reputable track record in your genre. For instance, Crown Publishing is renowned for business books and biographies. Examples of non-fiction bestsellers published via traditional publishing: "Becoming" by Michelle Obama: This memoir by the former First Lady of the United States was published by Crown Publishing Group in 2018 and became a worldwide bestseller, selling over 15 million copies. "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" by Stephen Covey: This self-help book was first published by Simon & Schuster in 1989 and has since sold over 25 million copies worldwide. "Unbroken" by Laura Hillenbrand: This biography of World War II hero Louis Zamperini was published by Random House in 2010 and spent over four years on The New York Times bestseller list. "A Brief History of Time" by Stephen Hawking: This popular science book was first published by Bantam Books in 1988 and has sold over 10 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling non-fiction books of all time. II. Self-Publishing Some authors I work with prefer to go down this path, mostly because they want full control over all aspects of the publishing process. I plan on exploring this option or the Hybrid one for my next book. The choice I make will depend on my budget at the time. In choosing this route, the author takes full responsibility for editing, design, printing, distribution, and marketing of the book. It may cost you more, but as the author, you retain all rights and profits from the book. Don't worry, though; you don't have to flounder about 100% on your own. There are service providers who help authors self-publish. These include retailers such as Amazon KDP, Barnes & Noble, and Kobo. Companies such as KDP Print, Smashwords, and Draft2Digital provide distribution support. Full-service companies that offer everything from editing to distribution include Book Baby, Matador, and IngramSpark. Advantages Full control over editorial decisions, book design, and distribution. Higher royalty rates and greater profit potential. Faster publishing timeline, as authors can bring their books to market in a matter of weeks. Access to online platforms such as Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Disadvantages No access to professional editing, design, and marketing services unless the author hires and pays for them. Less prestige and validation compared to traditional publishing. (An ongoing debate.) Limited bookstore placement and distribution unless the author invests in additional marketing efforts. Examples of non-fiction bestsellers published via self-publishing: "The Barefoot Investor" by Scott Pape: This personal finance book was self-published by the author in 2016 and became an instant bestseller in Australia, selling over 2 million copies. "The Paleo Solution" by Robb Wolf: This diet and health book was self-published by the author in 2010 and became a New York Times bestseller, selling over 100,000 copies. "The Freedom Journal" by John Lee Dumas: This productivity and goal-setting journal was self-published by the author in 2016 and became a bestseller on Amazon, selling over 10,000 copies in its first week. "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck" by Mark Manson: This self-help book was self-published by the author in 2016 and became a bestseller, selling over 13 million copies worldwide. "The 5 Love Languages" by Gary Chapman: This relationship advice book was originally published by a small Christian publisher in 1992, but the author later acquired the rights and began self-publishing it. It has since become a bestseller, selling over 12 million copies. "Crushing It!" by Gary Vaynerchuk: This business and marketing book was self-published by the author in 2018 and became a bestseller, debuting at # 2 on The New York Times bestseller list. Authors are more involved in the marketing process now than in the past. III. Hybrid Publishing This is a combination of traditional and self-publishing. The author pays a fee to a publisher, who provides editorial, design, printing, and distribution services. The author retains the rights to the book and receives royalties from book sales. I am currently working with an author who has chosen this route because, as she says, “I need all the help I can get while still retaining some control.” Advantages Access to professional editing, design, printing, marketing and distribution services. More control over editorial decisions and book design than traditional publishing. Faster publishing timeline than traditional publishing. Retention of the rights and royalties by the author. Disadvantages High upfront costs, as authors are required to pay for the services the publisher provides. Limited bookstore placement and distribution unless the author invests in additional marketing efforts. Less prestige and validation compared to traditional publishing. There are many hybrid publishers out there. Some of the more reputable ones that I’ve come across are IdeaPress Publishing, Greenleaf Book Group, Forbes Books, She Writes Press, Amplify, and those listed in the examples below. Be sure to do your research thoroughly before choosing the right one for you. Examples of non-fiction bestsellers that have been published via hybrid publishing: "The 10X Rule" by Grant Cardone: This business and self-help book was published by Cardone's own hybrid publishing company, Cardone Ventures, in 2011. It has since become a bestseller, selling over 1 million copies worldwide. "The Happiness Project" by Gretchen Rubin: This memoir and self-help book was published by HarperCollins in 2009, but the author worked with a hybrid publisher, CreativeSpace, to produce a special edition that included a reader's guide and author Q&A. "The Lean Startup" by Eric Ries: This business book was originally self-published in 2011 before being picked up by Crown Publishing Group. The author worked with a hybrid publisher, Greenleaf Book Group, to produce and distribute the book to bookstores. "The Compound Effect" by Darren Hardy: This self-help book was published by Hardy's own hybrid publishing company, SUCCESS Books, in 2010. It has since become a bestseller, selling over 1 million copies worldwide. + Crowdfunding Publishing Crowdfunding is not strictly one of the publishing routes but more a funding method to help get your book published. Using crowdfunding platforms , the author raises money from supporters to fund the publishing process. The author can use the funds to pay for the book's editing, design, printing, distribution, and marketing. This route allows authors to retain full control over the book. An author I know on LinkedIn used this method to fund the publishing of his book. He had a good marketing and promotion strategy, which he used in 2022 to promote his book before publishing. This way, he got his followers to buy his book before the launch in 2023 to fund his publishing costs. Advantages Full control over editorial decisions, book design, and distribution. No upfront costs for publishing the book. Ability to generate buzz and pre-orders for the book. Higher royalty rates and greater profit potential. Disadvantages Risk of not meeting the crowdfunding goal and not being able to publish the book. No access to professional editing, design, and marketing services unless the author hires and pays for them. Less prestige and validation compared to traditional publishing. Examples of non-fiction bestsellers that have been published via crowdfunding publishing: "Rebel Ideas" by Matthew Syed: This non-fiction book on diversity and innovation was published in 2019 via Unbound, a crowdfunding publisher. It became a bestseller in the UK, where it was originally released. "Eager: The Surprising, Secret Life of Beavers and Why They Matter" by Ben Goldfarb: This non-fiction book on environmentalism and conservation was published in 2018 via Island Press, a traditional publisher that utilized a crowdfunding campaign to help promote the book. "The Good Immigrant" edited by Nikesh Shukla: This anthology of essays by black, Asian, and minority ethnic writers was published in 2016 via Unbound, a crowdfunding publisher. It became a bestseller in the UK and won numerous awards. 2. Choosing the Right Path for Your Non-Fiction Book When deciding which publishing route to take for your non-fiction book, there are several factors to consider, including: Your goals: What do you hope to achieve by publishing your book? Are you looking to make a profit, establish yourself as an expert in your field, or simply share your story or knowledge with others? Time and resources: How much time and money do you have to invest in the publishing process? Traditional publishing may take longer and require more upfront investment, while self-publishing may allow for greater control over the timeline and costs. Target audience: Who is your book intended for? Understanding your target audience and their preferences can help you choose the publishing route that will best reach and engage them. Genre and niche: What type of non-fiction book are you writing, and is there a particular niche or subgenre it falls into? Some publishing routes may be better suited for certain genres or niches. Marketing and promotion: How will you promote and market your book once it's published? Some publishing routes may offer more support in this area than others, while others may require you to take a more active role in promoting your book. 3. Making a Decision Once you've considered these factors, you can begin to weigh the pros and cons of each publishing route and make a decision based on your individual needs and goals. Some key considerations to keep in mind include the following: Cost: How much are you willing and able to invest in the publishing process? Control: How much power do you want over the content, design, and distribution of your book? Timeline: How soon do you want your book to be published? Reach: How important is it for you to reach a wide audience, and how will you achieve that? Support: How much help do you want or need throughout the publishing process, and which route will offer the most support? Final Thoughts Ultimately, the decision of which publishing path to choose for your non-fiction book is a personal one that will depend on your individual goals, resources, and preferences. By understanding the factors to consider when choosing a publishing route, you can confidently navigate the publishing landscape and achieve your goals as a writer. So, take the time to do your research, connect with other writers and industry professionals, and stay focused on your vision for your non-fiction book. Have a question or something to add, connect with me on LinkedIn . Be sure to keep an eye out for more blog articles about the book-writing process coming to you in the next few weeks. Shamila Iyer - your content partner from idea to publication. Write. Edit. Coach. (*Article updated - February 2025)

Do you know the difference between a developmental editor, content editor, structural editor, line editor, copy editor, and proofreader? I bet you didn't realize there were so many different types of editing, right? To make it easier for you to decide which type of editor you need, I've put together a carousel outlining the different types and stages of editing. You can choose your editor based on your needs and the editing stage you are currently at in your book-writing journey. Browse through the sample gallery below or download and save the full 14-page PDF for future reference. Still not sure? Perhaps a manuscript evaluation and review will help. To find out more, book a free 15-minute clarity call. "The best advice on writing was given to me by my first editor, Michael Korda, of Simon and Schuster, while writing my first book. 'Finish your first draft and then we'll talk,' he said. It took me a long time to realize how good the advice was. Even if you write it wrong, write and finish your first draft. Only then, when you have a flawed whole, do you know what you have to fix." - Dominick Dunne

Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. The only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven't found it yet, keep looking. Don't settle. ~Steve Jobs "But how do I go about finding what I love?" "And how do I find my writing niche?" If you haven't found your niche yet, don't be disheartened. Many aspiring writers often come to me with these two questions. In this article, we will explore the answers to those questions. Align your passions and interests with your skills and market needs. Your Passions and Interests It starts with exploring your passions and interests. What topics or activities do you find yourself naturally drawn to? What problems or challenges do you enjoy solving? These clues can point you in the direction of a potential niche. Your Skills But it's not just about passion—it's also about skill. What are you naturally good at? What skills have you developed over time? Identifying your strengths can help you find a writing niche where you can truly excel. Align Your Interests and Skills Once you have a sense of your passions and strengths, it's time to explore how your talents and interests intersect. Here's how to go about it: 1. Start exploring different industries and job roles. Research companies and job descriptions that align with your interests and skills. 2. Connect with professionals in those fields. Reach out for informational interviews or inquire about job shadowing opportunities. 3. Research the needs of the market. Find out what your potential clients and their customers are looking for. How can you fulfill those needs? 4. Build your portfolio. If you are a new writer, start building your portfolio of sample articles in your chosen industry niche. Demonstrate your expertise through well-crafted pieces. 5. Embrace experimentation. Don't be afraid to try new things and take risks. Step Outside Your Comfort Zone Sometimes, the best way to discover your niche is by stepping outside your comfort zone and exploring new areas. Whether you're just starting out or you've been working for years, it's never too late to discover what truly drives you and brings you joy in your work. Be open to experimenting with various niches until you find the one that truly resonates with you. After more than 20 years of teaching, writing, and mentoring, I found a new niche I am fully exploring this year. And I'm loving it! My new niche encompasses everything I learned in the last 25 years—all the bits I loved doing. And it has enough of a challenge to keep me on my toes. My journey: From my first niche to my current niche. But that's more of a career changing niche. Let's talk about writing niches specifically. I'm going to break this down into two areas: Topics and Content Types. Content Writing Niches I've put together some ideas for you to explore that will help you find your writing niche. When choosing your niche, focus on a topic you know or are interested in. You can combine this with a content type, such as blog articles or book writing. Some writers prefer to be generalists; they write across different niches. Others prefer to choose a specific niche and become experts in that topic, industry, or content type. The choice is yours. 8 Profitable Content Writing Topics There are many industries and topics that you can settle into. This will depend on your interests and background. Perhaps you are a transitioning teacher with an interest in AI and learning. In that case, you might choose to write about AI in education. Below are some of the most profitable writing topics for 2023 – 2024. Which would you choose? 1. Finance/Personal Finance Educating customers — articles on budgeting and personal finances, blogs for banks & credit card companies, and training materials for investment companies or financial planning firms. 2. Technology Cybersecurity, computers, data storage, smartphones, AI, and digital health tech. 3. SaaS (Software-as-a-Service) Explain the product to prospects and customers — website copy, long-form blog posts, how-to guides, and email newsletters. 4. Cryptocurrency/Blockchain/Fintech Technical writing, articles, and blogs — know the jargon. 5. Digital Marketing Explain products and services, long-form guides, and articles about content marketing, email marketing, social media, SEO, and affiliate marketing. 6. Health & Wellness Products, providers, cannabis blogs, dispensaries, alternative medicine, digital health, and healthcare. 7. Education Education and skills training (for jobs or starting a business), e-learning, online courses, and providers. 8. Real Estate Landing pages, website copy, home buying guides, blogs on how to stage houses for sale, house flipping, home décor, and local laws. Writing topics: Can you identify with any of these? 9 High Paying Content Types Once you decide on which topic or industry you'd like to focus on, you can either choose to create different content types or settle for one type, such as writing e-learning courses. Below is a list of the highest-paid content types for 2023 – 2024. Which one/s would you prefer? 1. Long-form blog posts and in-depth guides detailed, well-researched, over 2000 words usually includes basic SEO 2. Video script writing currently, the no. 1 content writing trend scripts for websites, videos, podcasts, webinars, and YouTube 3. E-books and PDFs e-books and "How-to" content, such as lead magnets often published as 10 to 20-page PDFs in demand from businesses who wish to generate leads for their business 4. White papers have a more formal/serious tone than blog posts or e-books written for the B2B market, popular in the tech niche used to promote products , 5-10 pages long also used as lead magnets you will need interviewing skills 5. Email writing short-form, used to encourage conversions used in marketing campaigns and newsletters copywriting background needed 6. Sales pages and Landing pages used to drive sales, web pages SEO and copywriting skills needed 7. Case Studies showcases customer success stories used for promotions and to drive sales interviewing and story-telling skills are needed 8. Educational content online or e-learning courses scripts for courses (text or video) text-based learning materials 9. Book writing ghostwriting – writing in the client's voice or style non-fiction, memoirs, and social media posts Content categories: Which ones do you prefer? Do What You Love Choose your writing niche based on your experience, passion, skills, and interests. You are now equipped with the 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐲𝐩𝐞𝐬 you can specialize in and the 𝐭𝐨𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐬. It's time to make a choice. If SaaS (topic) is your thing and you are good at crafting compelling white papers (content type), then focus on those gigs. Alternatively, if you have a background in mental health (topic), channel your expertise into writing informative blog posts (content type) that address topical mental health issues. So, do you have a winning combination in mind? The Highest Paid Content Writing Niches Technical writers, speechwriters, screenwriters, and ghostwriters are the highest-paying writing jobs at present. Other popular niches are personal finance, technology, parenting, and travel. Blog writers have always been in high demand. Lately, though, due to the rapid advancements in AI writing tools such as ChatGPT, many writers are finding that robots are taking over their jobs. However, we are still waiting to see if AI writers can write content as human as human writers. And that, my dear fellow writers, is a discussion best left for a future article. Final Thoughts The journey to finding your niche may not always be easy, but the result—doing work that truly fulfills you—is worth it. And once you find it, your work will only get better and better as the years go on. So, keep exploring, growing, and pushing yourself to find the path that's right for you. Ready to level up your writing? Need help finding your niche? As a writing coach, I will help you find your writing niche and achieve your writing goals. Schedule a call. Let's chat ☕ Shamila