Writing update. Bipolar inspiration. We can reach our dreams. Bipolar will determine the timeline, but it will NOT determine what we accomplish. We CAN do this. You can see the stress on my face, but darn it, the project will get done. For those who are new to my work, I’m finally writing a new book. It’s a workbook. It is a BIG project and I’m excited. Bipolar disorder could care less about my dreams, goals and excitement. It has been HORRIFIC. But I keep going and you can as well.
Here I am holding the sample chapter draft. I will now put it into a chapter format for a workbook. I have 60 pages of notes for a 20 page chapter- that will include at least four workbook exercises.
Self help writers have to be concise. Our job is to take complex ideas and put them in easy to digest words that lead to change in the reader.
This book proposal has been H E double toothpicks as I used to say in grade school.
What would take the well me a few weeks to write has been months and months of agonizing work.
If you have bipolar disorder, please keep going with your dreams.
For those interested in the writing process- self help books are sold off a big proposal that includes the following:
1. Explanation of the situation that leads to the need for the book.
2. A VERY LARGE marketing plan to let the publishing company know you are a good investment.
3. Sample chapter that shows exactly how the book will look- this will not change much from the actual book.
4. Complete table of contents that lets the publisher know your view for the overall project.
The proposal with everything included is around 60 pages. I know, it’s a crazy process! It’s a business plan for a book. My agent then takes this proposal to the publishing companies and they literally sit around a table and decide if I’m worth the investment of the around $40k it takes to produce a beautiful book.
I’m worth it. Heck yes I’m worth it!
Stick to your project. Remove distractions. Treat bipolar first. Let your timeline be flexible. Be nice to yourself.
