For months I’ve (Dara) been “wrapping up” my first book, The Indie Author Revolution.
I’ve procrastinated and prolonged getting it to press (another post is coming about that) and now it’s almost to the printer…maybe? I kid. It’s going to press this month. Hold me to it.
But now that that book is done (though the work is never done), I have ideas for my next book. That’s right. Ideas are already swirling in my head for book two.
It took approximately two years, eight months, 21 days, and counting to complete the first book. And despite the countless sleepless nights, 41 edits, outrageous wine consumption, and a barrage of emotions (doubt, fear, self-loathing, excitement, and nervousness), I would like to do it again.
Yes, I find the pain of writing a book exhilarating.
So, while we normally offer suggestions that are proven for how to execute strategies related to publishing, we’re switching it up. I’m hoping that you’ll actually help us out. Share your suggestions for what I should do to light the fire under my butt.
Here are the challenges I’m facing:
Challenge 1: I have several ideas for book two and can’t decide on which one to go with.
Challenge 2: Shorter e-book or longer book that’s both print and electronic? I’m drawn to the idea of less being more…
Challenge 3: Juggling the writing of book two with the marketing of book one. What are good tips?
Here’s what I’ve done to jumpstart my plan to get book two going:
1. Set a deadline for the first draft/outline: September 30th
2. Began listing potential title ideas
3. Draft a book summary and book marketing plan for the two top ideas by July 15th.
So this is where I’m at. Where are you? What’s helping? What has worked for you? What’s your strategy for Operation: Write the Next Book Already!
Sounds super interesting, Dara! I love reading about the writing process of other writers so thanks for sharing!
Creating and writing down goals are smart things to do. The tough part is reaching those goals!
So far, I’m writing my second novel. I was doing it through a 50K/30 days challenge, but am out of the race (er, marathon). Basically because I have daughter and schoolwork who require too much of my time right now.
So I’m still writing although not as much but also focusing a lot and reading a lot about where I want to go with my writing and how.
I started writing a “business plan” for my writing career. I hope this serves as a path to where I want to go, motivation for when I lack it, and steps I need to take. Otherwise, I fear I’ll lose focus and tweet way too much!
That’s where I am.
I love that you have a business plan for your writing career. That sounds like an excellent blog (hint, hint)! Kudos for already starting book two. I have yet to make the leap. I’m still brainstorming. A business plan for my overall writing aspirations would seriously help. Thank you so much for mentioning that! I also love reading about the writing process for other writers.