Should you write a book?

Ever since I decided to write my book, Question to Learn, I’ve had conversations with people who’ve told me they’d like to write a book some day. Much like I was for years, they feel stuck, not knowing how or where to begin.​

I really do believe the saying “everyone has a book in them”. We all have unique stories to tell or perspectives to share. I believe everyone could write a book, but I don’t believe everyone should write a book.

I didn’t come to this conclusion until I was about 20,000 words into mine. I had days where I couldn’t type fast enough and couldn’t wait to see how my book would turn out. I had other days where I struggled to think of a single word to type and wondered if I’d made a huge mistake.

The more I pushed, the more I realized how much I really love writing. I can think on my feet and hold a conversation, but at times I struggle with figuring out how to articulate what I’m trying to say. Writing the book forced me to connect dots that had been floating around in my head for years. Now, I love talking about those dots.

Recently I was talking with a CEO of a company. He told me he was thinking about writing a book. I asked why. He told me he thought it would give some helpful credibility to himself and his company. I have no issue with that reason. It was one of mine, too.

Then I asked him if he enjoyed writing. He seemed surprised by my question. After a few moments he said that no, he didn’t really enjoy writing, but he figured AI could do the heavy lifting for him.

​I didn’t say it then, but I know he’ll never write that book.

​Writing a book is a lot like running a marathon. You really have to enjoy running. The finish line will feel amazing, but getting there will mean a lot of time spent grinding through training runs, much like the feeling of grinding through 1,000 words. There will also be days where it all feels free and easy, but that won’t be every day.

Another reason everyone shouldn’t write a book is that it’s just one of many ways to get your story out there. Podcasts, blogs, social media channels are all great options, if you love the process. That’s the key.

You have to love the process.