Ask Dr. Christi
One of my goals this year is to write a book, something I’ve wanted to do for a long time. I’m passionate about the topic and excited about the project, but I can’t seem to get started! Every time I sit down to write, I feel completely overwhelmed and end up straightening my desk or checking email. Once I get going I believe I’ll find my groove – but how can I get started?
Congratulations on a thrilling goal! Your passion and excitement are good indicators that you’ve chosen your goal wisely, so since that’s not an issue, let me offer a few ideas.
First, consider talking to a few people who have already done what you’re setting out to do. (In this case, they’ve written books.) Invite them for coffee or request a brief phone call, then have some questions prepared.
For example, you may want to ask how they got started, what they did when they felt overwhelmed, and how they sustained motivation even on the days they perhaps didn’t feel like writing. You’ll gain valuable tips and inspiration from someone who’s successfully done what you’re about to do.
Make sure you follow up your conversations with a thank you note.
Also, you need to break a Bold Goal like this into manageable pieces. Rather than, “Today at 1pm I will write my book,” divide the project into segments and focus on one segment at a time: “Today I will complete my Introduction” or “This week, I’ll finish the Table of Contents.” Set mini-deadlines for yourself so you continue to move forward and avoid getting stuck in ‘busy work.’
Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, “You don’t have to see the whole staircase – just take the first step.” Keep his words in mind. You don’t have to write the whole book today – just take the first step, then the next step, and before you know it, you’ll be signing book jackets and changing lives with your written words.
Do you have a question about growing your business/career, goals, or getting unstuck? Dr. Christi doesn’t claim to have all the answers but she’s happy to share what she’s learned! Send us your questions via email or on our Facebook page.