During some of the ghostwriting discovery conversations that I have, an aspiring author isn’t always quite sure what genre their book should fit into.
Is it personal development? Is it business? Is it a memoir?
My advice at this point in the process: Don’t box yourself in.
Just as with life, it’s really easy to “put the cart before the horse”. The key though is to take the process step by step. It doesn’t need to all be figured out in one conversation.
Of course, when it comes time to publish and sell the book, it will need a genre and some descriptors.
But here’s why I say not to worry so much about it as you begin the book-writing process.
Let creativity flow
By trying to box yourself in before you set an intention for the book and start brainstorming and outlining, you are interfering with your creativity.
You start to place your ideas in clean boxes rather than letting them flow. This means you’re trying to organize your thoughts before you’ve even fully gotten your ideas out.
When you’re trying to organize your thoughts before you’ve fully let them flow, you’re restricting potential sparks of inspiration because you start thinking of what “should” come next rather than what feels right to come next based on your intention.
Now, don’t get me wrong… the book writing process definitely can’t be willy-nilly, but when you’re still brainstorming and aligning your thoughts with your intention, let those ideas flow.
One benefit of having a ghostwriter is that you can just let your ideas flow, and the ghostwriter will help do the structuring and organizing for you! Basically, this means you get to have some fun conversations and then the ghostwriter will help structure the rest of the process for you.
Elements of many genres
In my experience, many books contain certain elements of each genre, especially for coaches, consultants, etc.
Many chapters will start off with stories (a little bit of memoir) and then will get into mindset and/or tactics (personal development and/or business). Therefore, don’t worry about if you want to focus on your story or focus on your teaching. In fact, it’s most effective to have both elements.
The power of storytelling should not be underestimated, and weaving your story into your teaching will help to keep the reader engaged and turning those pages.
Don’t get lost in sales
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. Income from book sales should not be the primary driver of your non-fiction book. It’s certainly a nice side benefit but should not be the main reason you decide to write a book.
If you get too focused on putting yourself in a box and writing for sales, you’ll start to lose sight of the main intention and purpose of your book. Follow your intention and the results will follow.
These results don’t need to be just book sales. Frequently, they will look like enrolling more clients, building your brand, booking more speaking gigs, etc.
As soon as you take your eyes off your original intention and purpose, the energy behind the book shifts. Readers can tell if the book is dry to fit in a box. Let that energy and desire to make a positive impact shine through!
To learn more about the intention and type of content that can help bring your book to life, check out my free Non-Fiction Book Blueprint!
Disclaimer: This blog should not be construed as providing, or intending to provide professional financial, legal, psychological, or other professional advice. It is simply meant to share my experiences with those who may find them relatable and helpful.