|
Many people want to write a book, but they can't seem to figure out what to write about. Recently, I read an article that said you don't really need to worry about that because the subject matter of your book "doesn't really matter." I disagree. A book is a lot of work; you should write about something you care about a lot.
Most people write a book for one of three primary reasons:
- To achieve fame. Being a published book author gives you a certain amount of prestige. You write the book because you want to become known as an expert in your subject area.
- To provide credibility for the other professional work you do. If you've written a book on a subject, you probably know more about your topic than the guy who didn't write a book.
- To get a message out to a wider audience. You feel driven to share information or impart knowledge about a given topic.
In each case, you and your book are intricately linked. This connection lasts not only during the writing process, but also after the book is published. You'll have to market the book. Do you really want to be discussing a subject you aren't interested in for years to come?
If you ask me, being passionate about the topic of your book does matter. In fact, I suggest that before you embark on a book project, you ask yourself these questions:
- What are you passionate about?
- What gets you so fired up that you end up talking with someone for hours? (And don't even realize it!)
- What energizes you?
- Do you have hobbies or interests that, when you work on them, it feels like the time just flies by?
Answering these questions gives you an insight into the right book topic for you to pursue now. Think about the most memorable non-fiction books you've ever read. Did you feel like you "knew" the author by the end? That's because the passion authors have for the subject matter comes through in their writing.
I'm a vegan, animal-loving, computer-using, online business owner and publisher. Our books are on topics that relate to my life. In reviews, people often comment that our books are easy to read and authentic. That's because they reflect who I am. I can't imagine writing any other way. If your book project feels forced, maybe you simply haven't found a topic you care enough to write an entire book about.
Did You Miss SPOC? It's Not Too Late!
The Self-Publishers Online Conference happens in May and connects entrepreneurial authors with self-publishing resources. In 2009, we gathered an exceptional group of 15 experts who explained how you can use a book to establish your expertise, build credibility, generate leads, and create information products that can skyrocket your business. But you don't have to wait until next year! Now you can get all the wisdom of the 2009 Self-Publishers Online Conference speakers delivered right to your door. You can get the entire conference on CD or purchase the downloadable audios individually. The CD package is just like being in a room full of book publishing and promotion experts! Collectively, the insights and expertise of these speakers is worth tens of thousands of dollars. Learn more by visiting the SPOC 2009 page at: http://www.selfpublishersonlineconference.com/spoc2009.aspx
|
