It seems like an attractive option to write articles or blogs and then string them together to make a book, and even my hero Seth Godin put together Small is the New Big in this way. However, I just prefer books that are planned in a strategic way from the outset. I once worked with a client who had an idea to write 100 blogs and then turn it into a book. She said, “I have written 50 already; do you want to see them?” I said, “No, let’s do the process as though you hadn’t written anything and then we will see how to incorporate what you have written.” To make a long story short, she only ended up using about 30% of the original material and ended up with a much better book because of it. Just ask me if you want her contact details because she nearly made a huge mistake.

I’ve seen some books that really don’t hang together and it’s not fun for the reader. You probably can use much of what you have written, Dan. Just make sure you do a thorough job of planning the best content for the best book and try to be objective, or else get some help from a good book coach.

Best of luck!
Mindy

I hear you. But if it were important enough to you, i.e. if you had a good enough reason and enough motivation, there would not be *anything* in the world that would stop you. Not fear of hard work or the silly opinions of other people.

It sounds like you feel you *should* write a book. That’s not a good starting place. Ask yourself what the key personal reasons would be and how strongly you feel. I’ve seen lots of people conquer fears when they had a clear vision, and you probably know exactly what I mean!

Good luck!

Looking forward to the publication of your book.

Actually, I am writing a non-fiction book, but I believe it doesn’t fit into any of the three categories above. It is a technology book, so when it’s out it will have a fairly short timespan to make a difference. What do I hope for from this book? Well, several things: to try it out, for the heck of it. I’ve got an opportunity to write a book, and I decided I’d go for it. Secondary goal is to see what people it will get me in touch with, and what kind of doors it will open for me in the long run. Last, it’s an excercise – when I decide to write a “real” book, one with life expectancy of more than a year and a half, I will have one already under my belt, I will know the drill, and it will be much easier. Money is not driving my effort with this book at all, at least not directly.

Best regards,

Vjeko

@ Deborah – Congrats on writing your novel! No doubt, if you decide to have a “back end,” making it not just about money, but about something you’re passionate for is so important for your bigger picture mindset/vision/happiness.

@ Jonathan – Thanks for the kind words and congrats on finishing your guide! No doubt, when you write about something, especially something that’s been personally transformative, the entire process of writing involves a “personal unfolding.” I found it really helped to clarify a lot of my thoughts and beliefs, too.