What Should I Write a Book About?

Overcome Writer’s Block and Free Your Storytelling Potential

The blank page can be a daunting adversary, especially when faced with the question of what to write a book about.

Narrowing down your options and finding a compelling narrative can seem impossible. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the tools and techniques to transform your blank page into a captivating tale.

We’ll explore the challenges that often hinder writers while exploring common pitfalls and offering practical solutions to overcome them.

Navigating the Maze of Ideas

The expanse of potential book ideas can be exhilarating and overwhelming. To combat this challenge, we’ll provide a structured approach to brainstorming and evaluating book ideas, helping you identify the most promising concepts for your writing journey.

Unleashing Your Narrative

Your life is a treasure trove of unique experiences, emotions, and perspectives, all of which have the potential to become captivating stories. This guide will empower you to tap into your personal narrative, transforming your life’s journey into a compelling and relatable work of nonfiction.

Overcoming Writer’s Block: A Plan for Success

Writer’s block is capable of derailing even the most experienced writers. You can overcome this obstacle and reclaim your creative flow with our battle plan that equips you with techniques to combat procrastination, manage distractions, and maintain creative momentum.

Embrace the Power of Storytelling

Storytelling is an inherent human trait, a means of connecting, sharing experiences, and exploring the complexities of life.

Let this guide be your compass as it guided you through the maze of book ideas, unlocking your narrative, and empowering you to overcome writer’s block. Embrace the power of storytelling and leave your mark on the world.

If you’re beginning your writing journey, check out our ultimate writing guide here, where we discuss everything from editing to marketing.

The power of choice: Harnessing creativity and reader engagement through savvy topic selection

Selecting a fitting topic, theme, or concept forms the basis of a compelling narrative by shaping the reader’s journey and influencing the author’s creative experience. Writers can elevate their work, captivate audiences and foster deep connections by making smart decisions at the outset.

The importance of choosing a fitting topic, theme, or concept

The choice of topic, theme, or concept is the foundation upon which a story is built. These decisions provide the framework for the narrative’s direction, establishing the central message or idea that the author seeks to convey. A fitting topic allows writers to draw on their passion and expertise while filling their work with authenticity and depth.

How the right choice can impact reader engagement and your writing experience

Selecting a topic that aligns with the author’s interests and strengths fosters a sense of enthusiasm and engagement, propelling them through the writing process. A topic that doesn’t align with your envisioned storyline can lead to creative stagnation and, ultimately, a disconnect between the author and their work.

Factors to consider when selecting a topic, theme, or concept

1. Passion and Interest: Choose a topic that sparks your passion and ignites your curiosity. Your enthusiasm will translate into engaging writing that resonates with readers.
2. Knowledge and Expertise: Select a topic you know you can write about with authority. Subject-matter expertise will allow you to write with confidence and authenticity.
3. Audience Appeal: Consider the interests and expectations of your target audience. Choose a topic that aligns with their preferences, ensuring your work finds an engaged readership.
4. Personal Significance: Explore topics that are relevant to your life experiences. This connection will infuse your writing with authenticity and emotional resonance.
5. Unique Perspective: Seek out topics that offer a fresh perspective or challenge conventional viewpoints. Your unique insights can set your work apart and engage readers.

Remember, the power of choice extends beyond the initial selection of a topic. Every decision contributes to the story’s overall impact.

Overcoming Writer’s Block

It happens to everyone, even when writing about a topic you know better than nearly anyone–your life story. But since writer’s block occurs, plenty of tips and tricks exist to help you overcome those barriers. Below are 4 of our favorite ways to overcome writer’s block. We love these tips so much for a specific reason: they work.

Tips and exercises to combat writer’s block

Our four favorite ways to overcome writer’s block are here.

Even the most seasoned writers can find themselves staring at a blank page, their minds devoid of any ideas. Writer’s block is a common occurrence, but it doesn’t have to derail your creative journey. Fortunately, there are many effective strategies to help you overcome this temporary setback and get your writing flowing once again.

If you’re stuck, check out our top tips for overcoming writer’s block.

The role of inspiration and discipline in creative writing: A delicate balance

Inspiration and discipline intertwine in creative writing, forming an essential partnership that fuels the creative process. While inspiration ignites the spark of imagination, discipline provides the structure and perseverance necessary to transform fleeting ideas into tangible masterpieces.

Inspiration: The spark of imagination

Inspiration nourishes creativity, igniting the spark that propels writers into uncharted territories of imagination. It can manifest in various forms, from a fleeting thought to a vivid dream, and can strike at any moment in any setting. Inspiration provides the raw material for storytelling, offering a glimpse into the boundless possibilities that await.

Being open to inspiration fosters creativity. It involves cultivating a mindset that embraces new ideas, experiences, and perspectives. Here are some ways to enhance your openness to inspiration:

1. Practice mindfulness and gratitude: Mindfulness involves being fully present in the moment and observing your thoughts and feelings without judgment.
2. Explore new environments and activities: Step out of your comfort zone and venture into unfamiliar places, engage in new activities, and connect with different people. These experiences expose you to diverse perspectives, challenge assumptions, and broaden your horizons. This openness to newness can spark new ideas and inspire creativity.
3. Nurture your curiosity: Curiosity is the driving force behind learning and discovery. Ask questions, seek out new information, and explore subjects that pique your interest.
4. Engage with creative works: Immerse yourself in art, music, literature, and other forms of creative expression. By engaging with creativity, you open yourself to the influence of others and allow their ideas to intertwine with your own.
5. Embrace the power of nature: Spend time in nature, surrounded by greenery, fresh air, and the sounds of the outdoors. Nature can profoundly calm the mind, reduce stress, and enhance creativity. It can provide peace and tranquility and encourage inspiration to emerge.
6. Journal your thoughts and feelings: Regular journaling allows you to process your experiences and capture fleeting ideas that can serve as fertile ground for inspiration.
7. Surround yourself with inspiring individuals: Seek out individuals who are passionate, creative, and open to new ideas. Their energy and enthusiasm can rub off on you, fueling your creativity and openness to inspiration.
8. Learn from setbacks and failures: Failure is inevitable in the creative process. Instead of viewing it as a negative experience, view it as an opportunity for learning and growth. Analyze your mistakes, identify areas for improvement, and use that knowledge to fuel your next endeavor.
9. Celebrate your successes and achievements: Recognizing your accomplishments, no matter how small, reinforces a sense of self-belief and self-worth. This positive reinforcement boosts your confidence and encourages you to pursue your creative endeavors.
10. Practice self-love and self-care: Taking care of your physical and mental health is essential for fostering creativity and inspiration. Maintain a healthy diet, get enough sleep, exercise regularly, and engage in activities that bring you joy. You create the foundation for a fertile creative space by prioritizing your well-being.

Discipline: The foundation for progress

While inspiration provides the initial impetus, discipline is the force that carries writers through the arduous process of crafting their narratives. It is the unwavering commitment to one’s craft, the dedication to overcoming obstacles, and persisting through periods of self-doubt. Discipline transforms fleeting ideas into real works of art, shaping the raw material of inspiration into compelling stories.

Cultivating discipline in writing is an essential aspect of becoming a successful writer. Here are some effective strategies to develop discipline while you write a book:

Establish a consistent writing schedule

Set aside dedicated time each day or week specifically for writing. Treat this time as an essential appointment and stick to your schedule as much as possible. This will help you develop a consistent writing habit and make writing a routine.

Create a distraction-free writing environment

Find a quiet and comfortable space to focus on writing without interruptions. Minimize distractions such as social media, emails, and phone notifications. You can also use tools like website blockers or noise-canceling headphones to stay focused.

Set realistic and achievable goals

Break down your writing project into smaller, more manageable goals. Setting realistic goals will help you stay motivated and avoid feeling overwhelmed. As you achieve each goal, you’ll gain a sense of accomplishment and be encouraged to continue writing.

Develop a writing routine

Before you start writing, establish a pre-writing routine to help you get into a focused mindset. Your routine could involve reading, listening to music, or taking a short walk. A consistent pre-writing routine will signal to your brain that it’s time to focus on writing.

Don’t wait for inspiration

Inspiration is great, but don’t rely on it to strike before you start writing. Discipline means showing up to write even when you don’t feel like it. Often, the act of writing itself can spark inspiration and help you overcome writer’s block.

Join a writing community

Motivation to write a book can come from other people. Surround yourself with other writers who share your passion for writing. Join a writing group, online forum, or attend writing workshops. Connecting with other writers can provide support, motivation, and accountability.

Reward yourself for your accomplishments

When you achieve a writing goal or complete a writing session, take some time to reward yourself, like treating yourself to a special meal or taking a break to relax and recharge.

Embrace feedback

Seek constructive feedback from trusted readers or writing mentors, such as DIYBook’s professional ghostwriters, who can help you through the tough spots. Feedback can help you identify areas for improvement and refine your writing skills.

Don’t be afraid to experiment

Discipline doesn’t mean being rigid or inflexible. Allow yourself to experiment with different writing styles, techniques, and genres. Experimentation will help you develop your unique voice and keep your writing fresh and engaging.

There will be days when writing is easy and other days when writing is a struggle. The key is to stay committed to your writing goals and keep showing up, even when it’s challenging. With persistence and dedication, you can cultivate the discipline you need to become a successful writer.

The working partnership of inspiration and discipline

The creative process is a journey, not a destination. Embrace the ebb and flow of inspiration, and remain steadfast in your commitment to discipline. With this delicate balance, you can transform your creative sparks into captivating stories that leave a lasting impact.

Your Literary Journey: Practical Steps to Start Writing a Life Story Book

Transforming your life’s experiences into a captivating narrative requires personal reflection, creative storytelling, and structured organization. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you embark on this literary journey:

Unlocking your memories: simple exercises and writing prompts

1. Gather Your Life Chronologically: Create a timeline, noting significant events, milestones, and turning points. This exercise will provide a framework for organizing your narrative.
2. Explore Your Emotions: Reflect on emotions that have shaped your life. Write down moments you felt joy, sorrow, anger, fear, and love. These emotions can add depth and authenticity to your story.
3. Seek Inspiration from Everyday Moments: Jot down observations, anecdotes, and conversations that capture the essence of your life. These seemingly ordinary moments can hold hidden gems of storytelling.
4. Utilize Writing Prompts: Use prompts like the ones in your DIYBook Author Account to spark memories and challenge your perspective. For instance, write about a pivotal decision you made, a person who influenced you, or a place with special meaning.

Crafting a narrative: creating an outline or storyboard

1. Outline Your Story: Develop a skeletal structure for your book. Divide your story into chapters, each representing a significant phase or event in your life.
2. Identify Key Elements: Identify the main characters, settings, conflicts, and turning points that drive your narrative.
3. Establish a Narrative Arc: Determine the emotional journey your protagonist undergoes, from their initial state to their transformation.
4. Create a Storyboard: Visually represent your story by sketching key scenes, character interactions, and plot points.

Remember, your life story is a unique tapestry woven with experiences, emotions, and lessons learned. Embrace the creative process, allow your memories to guide you, and transform your life journey into a compelling literary work.

FAQ Section

Why do I regularly have writer’s block?

Here are three reasons you may suffer from writer’s block regularly:

• Are you a perfectionist? Aiming for perfection can set you up for paralysis.
• Fear of criticism can lead to procrastination and writing avoidance.
• Non-writing distractions like kids or your full-time job can keep you from writing.

Is it a good idea to write about my life?

Yes! Write about your life to preserve your stories for family, friends, and generations of people you may never know.

How much does it cost to write a book?

It will only cost $89 for you to write your life story with DIYBook. Printing costs per book will vary depending on whether you choose hardcover or paperback and if you select color or black-and-white printing.

Is it hard to publish a book?

It’s easier than you might think. Once you’ve written and printed your book with DIYBook, our friends at In Ink Ghostwriting can guide you through the process of publishing and can set you up with a plan to ensure your book is shared with the world.

What are the best topics to write a book about?

The sky’s the limit! Write about what makes you want to sit down and pour your thoughts on to the page. Maybe you want to write about your life or about your journey as a small business owner. Maybe you want to preserve your family history or preserve the history of your company–all are great reasons to write a book.

If you need more help deciding what you ant to write a book about, create an Author Account with DIYBook where you’ll find a library of writing prompts and idea generators to help you write your book.

How do I write a book with no experience?

You’ve come to the right place! DIYBook offers all the tools, tips, and techniques to help you start and finish your book. Create an Author Account for free and see how easy it is!

You’re ready. Start writing and start preserving your family memories now!

Turn your memories into a book with the help of DIYBook.

Your story is waiting to be told.

Sign up for a FREE 7-day trial membership today and put your story onto the printed page!

DIYBook is an affordable and easy-to-use writing platform that helps people of all skill levels turn their stories into actual books. With DIYBook, you can:

• Write your book in a distraction-free environment.
• Format your book with professional templates.
• Design your book cover with a variety of tools.
• Order high-quality printed copies of your book.

With DIYBook’s membership program, you get access to all of these features and more at a fraction of the cost of traditional printing tools. Get started RISK FREE with our FREE 7-DAY TRIAL!

So what are you waiting for? Sign up for a DIYBook membership today!

You have a story to tell. DIYBook can help you write it!

About the Author

Barbara Basbanes Richter founded DIYBook, an affordable and easy-to-use book writing program. She also founded In Ink Ghostwriting, a full-service ghostwriting firm helping politicians, pundits, scientists, CEOs, professional athletes, and others get their stories into print.

Under her own byline, Barbara’s writing has appeared in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Daily News, The Vineyard Gazette, Humanities, The Sewanee Review, Fine Books & Collections, Literary Features Syndicate, High Country News, Ravishly.com, Westchester Magazine, and other outlets.

Barbara is a fluent French speaker, and her translation from French to English of Mademoiselle de Malepeire was called a “clever, inspiring gem.”