Writing Your First Book

How to find courage in your heart

“Courage is the most important of all the virtues because, without courage, you can’t practice any other virtue consistently.” ― Maya Angelou

Are you thinking about writing your first book? If you are, no doubt nervous and doubtful feelings come up within you.

You are not alone. I am about to embark on a challenge this November to complete my first book.

Yesterday, like my lovely friends Penelope Mayfield and Ellie Jacobson, I joined NaNoWriMo.

At first, I was unsure about joining the challenge to write 50,000 words in one month. Who was I to say I could do this?

Yet, who am I not to?

If you are contemplating this challenge or getting ready to write your first book, I encourage you to go for it.

Here are three reasons you should challenge yourself.

Appreciate Your Talents

If you love writing, it does not matter if you are a seasoned writer or a beginner. You have a message or story to share with the world.

If you allow doubt to take over, that book will not exist.

Instead, focus on the talents you have. We all have a unique way of seeing the world, and that translates into our writing.

When you appreciate yourself and what you have to contribute, new doors open up for you.

How can you appreciate the talents you have at this moment?

Believe In Your Abilities

Go back to a time you accomplished something monumental. Think about how you felt.

Carry those feelings over into the present moment.

Imagine yourself finishing the book, holding it in your hands, and seeing your name on the cover. With every word you write, it becomes a reality.

When you believe in your ability, it will drive you to keep moving forward.

List your abilities and look at that list daily. Believe in them.

Help Others Succeed

By challenging yourself to write a book, you show others how to go about it.

I was inspired by my friends joining this writing challenge, and it helped me get over my nervous feelings.

You never know who you will help just by being yourself.

When you decide to do something challenging, you show others what is possible. I love that in NaNoWriMo, there is a way to support others in the challenge and check in on their progress.

How can you help others succeed by taking on a challenge?

Are you ready to write a book? Will you join NaNoWriMo in November? If so, my name is TristaSigne on the site. Become my buddy there, and we can cheer each other on. I appreciate you!