Have for ever dreamed of becoming an author?  The empty nest stage of life is the perfect time to make this dream become a reality.  Do you have a book idea you have been thinking about for decades, or are you just getting excited by the idea now? Here is everything you need to know about why the time is right to embrace this challenge. 

We interviewed Lisa Tener, an award-winning book writing and publishing coach, to find out how you can make becoming an author a reality.  Lisa has helped many clients sign 5- and 6- figure book deals with major publishing houses including HarperCollins and Simon & Schuster.  She is an enthusiastic advocate for the power of the written word to transform careers, businesses and people. 

Why is the empty nest phase a good time to write a book?

Mothering is both deeply rewarding and challenging. It asks so much of us. Many women find themselves feeling a bit lost when that huge endeavor is no longer occupying so much time, energy and head space. Writing offers a way to explore another rewarding activity that also asks much of you and is deeply fulfilling. Writing can help you find meaning in your daily activity. And if you’ve been putting off writing, due to the demands of parenting, here’s your invitation to embrace this desire, perhaps a calling, even.

Why do so many people want to write a book?

I think it’s part of being human to yearn for self-expression and to create. Many of us have been touched by the books we read. It’s a dream to affect people the way the authors we love have impacted our lives. In addition, at midlife, we’ve often acquired wisdom, tools and skills that could help others. We may have some entertaining or enlightening stories to share, as well. So, we feel a tugging, almost like, who are you to keep this wisdom, this brilliance from others? You need to share it.

In addition, many women are reinventing their careers at midlife. Those who worked corporate jobs may feel a pull to hop off a horse and ride a tiger–start their own business. A book can help facilitate that process. It can help you parlay certain expertise into a new field or a related field and be seen as an expert from the get-go. So, a published book can be a great door-opener. It was for me, even though my first book had nothing to do with writing a book. It led me on a path I could not have dreamed of. It can be magical, like that.

What stops people from actually accomplishing this goal?

So many things stop people: Self-doubt, busyness, not making the time, feeling overwhelmed and unsure where to start, feeling intimidated. Many people didn’t have great writing teachers who encouraged them or taught them how to be good writers. But none of these things should stop you if you have a desire to write a book.

For overwhelm, I suggest people get support and guidance: read a book on writing, hire a book writing coach who has expertise in your particular genre, take a book writing course. You don’t need to go it alone if you feel overwhelmed.

For self-doubt, I suggest focusing on what you want your readers to experience, the potential of what your book can be. When you let go of the ego that thinks small and makes it about you, you struggle; when you make it about the people you can help, you step into a more expansive, confident version of yourself.

If time is the issue, figure out what you can give up. Maybe train the person who will replace you on the volunteer fundraising committee this year. Or say no to other projects while working on your book. And schedule the time in your calendar, so you keep it sacred.

How has self-publishing effected the ability to become an author?  

Self-publishing has certainly lowered the barriers to entry. It is so much easier to become an author and you can find so many excellent services out there–from designers of beautiful book covers to highly experienced freelance editors. The corollary is also true: there are so many people in this field and not all of them possess integrity. Do your research. Talk to people who’ve worked with a company to make sure they are reputable. Self-publishing companies and hybrid publishers promise the world, but most tend to maximize profits by offering the services of low-paid contractors. So, be skeptical of the promises you hear.

What are the pros and cons of publishing options?

Self publishing can bring your book out faster, so you can have it impacting your life or career and your readers a whole lot sooner. It gives you more control over content, cover, title and also the ability to update the book as frequently as you desire.

On the other hand, with traditional publishing, you get an experienced team that knows its readership and can make some excellent decisions. Many times, they  make your book even better than it was (although an experienced editor may also be able to do this). In addition, there is the cachet of a traditional publishing house. Plus you’ll generally have better distribution with a traditional publisher. People often think a traditional publisher will market and promote the book. They may, but don’t count on it. For the most part, even traditional publishers expect the author to be the primary marketer and get the word out there.

One important thing to keep in mind: traditional publishers will want to see that you have a platform, a following (online, offline or both) from which to sell books. If you are just getting started in that arena, it may be easier and more enjoyable to get the book out there and grow your platform organically than to work for what can be years to get the platform to where a publisher wants it to be. When I work with authors, we try to come up with creative ways to grow the platform quickly and sometimes we can.

How can authors stand out in today’s marketplace?

Certainly writing a great book helps–a book that comes from an authentic place, captures your voice and resonates with readers. Special features that make your book more engaging can help the book stand out and sell well, especially for self-help, business, how-to and other prescriptive nonfiction.

How do you even start to tackle the goal of becoming an author?

I always start with the vision statement. What will inspire you every time you sit down to write. It will help you stay connected to your motivating big picture, it will help you from getting stuck. Your vision will also help you choose the right book, if you are thinking of several ideas, and help you clarify the market you are writing for. I could go on and on. The vision statement really is a powerful first step. The other thing is to schedule your writing time in your calendar and keep it sacred.

Another thing I sometimes suggest is writing a list of the challenges that can get in the way of writing and brainstorm solutions to each of those challenges so they don’t stop you in your tracks. For instance, if you’re a CPA and tax season looms, brainstorm ahead of time how you’ll deal with that so you don’t get derailed and you stay on track.

Please tell our readers how you can help them and what programs you offer:

I love helping people in those beginning stages of book writing—clarifying the vision, the concept, who you’re writing for, what your book is — and what it isn’t, as well as provide editing services. I also help authors write compelling book proposals. I work mostly with self-help, how-to, business and inspirational books.

I invite your readers to get the free Inspired-Author-Support-Kit with daily lessons for 7 days, two inspiring audios and two fun, empowering worksheets.

Thank you Lisa!

If you are feeling inspired and ready to become an author explore these options to learn more from Lisa Tener:

Quick Start to Kick-Start Your Book

Inspiration to Author in 8 Weeks

Bring Your Book to Life

Let us know in the comments below if you are ready to pursue this dream!