Ghostwriting is a delicate balance of process and flexibility. Every book I’ve worked on has been different, and every client I’ve worked with has been unique.
I have an overall process that I take people through. It works. It creates ease. It helps us end up with a quality product.
It also allows for flexibility. That might seem counterintuitive, but it’s not. People often assume that structure takes away creativity. I believe that when structure and process are done right, they can actually enhance creativity.
Let’s dive in to talk about why!
Aligned Expectations
At the beginning of our time working together (even before that), I take my clients through what a normal process looks like. This creates a baseline for us and allows us to get on the same page.
We can then assess if there are any other areas that may need to be adjusted to accommodate this particular client. We’ll also look at the nature of the book. Sometimes, the structure, content, or goals will require slight tweaks in the process.
The process allows for the creativity. If there wasn’t a set process to begin with and we were winging it through the project, there would be immense stress and uncertainty. This would detract the focus from the actual book itself.
Starting with a process allows us to get creative with any adjustments to it while keeping expectations aligned.
Artistic Creativity
When both the author and the ghostwriter are clear on process and expectations, space is opened up for creativity in the actual book itself. Having a process and knowing that there are aligned expectations reduces the mental burden. Instead of the author having to wonder what comes next and the ghostwriter trying to manage the project on the fly, we can focus solely on the task at hand.
This allows us to be more creative in the work that we do. Is there a non-traditional structure that would better fit the goals and the audience for the book? Are there personal stories that tie into the business or leadership teachings? Maybe there are fun and valuable resources that can be created to add into the book.
You get the idea. When you can focus solely on the project without having to worry about logistics, space is opened up to think from new perspectives. And because there is already alignment between the author and ghostwriter, there can be deeper clarity in communication of the viability of each idea.
Ebbs and Flows
Books are a long process, and life doesn’t stop. When we have a baseline process to work off of, we can figure out how to work the process to the needs of the partnership.
For example, finance is typically busy at quarter-ends, accountants are most busy in the spring, and people take long vacations.
When we have a starting point, we can figure out how to get creative with scheduling in order to keep the process moving while still allowing space for life to happen outside of the book. This is important because, most often, the book is being used as a tool for the author to fulfill their primary mission. They can’t lose focus on the other aspects of that mission.
On the flip side, the book is an important tool, and the sooner it can make it out into the world, the sooner it can start making an impact. This is why creativity in the process can be valuable.
If you’ve been putting off your book because you feel like you don’t have time or the mental bandwidth to write it, ghostwriting could be a great option for you! Request a book consult using the button below to learn more.
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.