Article #16
Let's Get Ready!

Okay, we've discussed it briefly in several past articles, but now is the time to get real serious about getting into the right frame of mind to write a book.  So many people want to write a book, but so few of them have the organizational skills.  This is every bit as important as having the motivation or drive.  Everyone, who has ever dreamed, fantasized or lusted to actually write a book is quite anxious to get those first important words on a page.  At least that indicates to the world as well as yourself that this time you're really serious about this writing gig of yours.

No more fooling around because this time you've actually started the book, and you have pages to prove it.  However, that's just not enough because you've forgotten to take into consideration the preliminary work that you must complete prior to starting your book - that is, if you want to have a greater chance of success for your efforts.

What you need before actually starting your book is an organized system - a blue print for the structure of the book.  Without a well-thought out plan, the manuscript will probably ramble, lose direction and generally bore the reader.  Just as important, the writer will become frustrated and probably ill-tempered and difficult to live with: In Dan Poynter & Mindy Bingham's 1996 Fifth edition of: "Is There a Book Inside You?", they make a number of good suggestions for the "new" writer to follow for developing a good game plan.  Affirmation of your project and setting certain goals should rank right up at the top of your organizational schedule.  A positive attitude on the scope of your manuscript, a confidence in your own ability should be frequently reinforced.  It's sort of like creating your own vaccination for self-esteem and affirmation on your own belief in the project - almost like a prizefighter entering the ring.  He should feel certain that he's trained properly and will win the fight.  Constant reinforcement of these beliefs are most important to a healthy mental attitude.  Certain goals should be developed by the writer that includes a timetable, with certain flexibility, but enough discipline to stay on schedule for your writing efforts.  Establishing certain goals and objectives is part of the timetable that will help the writer to focus on the end objective.  I'll have more on the organization and research of your manuscript in next month's article.