Stop Waiting for the Perfect Time to Write Your Book
Waiting for the perfect time to write your book? It doesn’t exist.
A few years ago, I worked with an aspiring author who had been “about to write a book” for six years. She had great ideas, a powerful message, and expertise to share — but she kept waiting for the right moment.
When we finally began working together, I challenged her to write for just 10 minutes a day. She started messy, didn’t overthink it, and in six months, she was holding a completed manuscript.
The truth? Finished books come from starting, not from waiting for a mythical perfect time. According to James Clear, productivity expert and author of Atomic Habits, action precedes motivation — not the other way around. If you keep waiting for inspiration or free time to appear, you’ll be waiting forever.
How to Start Writing Your Book Now (Even with a Busy Schedule)
The authors who finish are the ones who:
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Start small: Ten minutes a day is enough to build momentum. That’s 70 minutes a week — over 5 hours in a month.
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Ignore the “edit monster”: Get your thoughts down first; refine later.
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Focus on progress, not perfection: Every rough draft is a step closer to a finished book.
- Join a writing circle to keep you on point and motivated (ask me how).
As Anne Lamott says in her writing classic Bird by Bird, give yourself permission to write “sh***y first drafts.” This is how most successful nonfiction books begin — imperfectly.
The Business Case for Starting Now
If you’re an entrepreneur, coach, or consultant, your book is a business card that never expires. It builds authority, opens doors to speaking opportunities, and keeps attracting clients long after publication.
Publishing consultant Michael Hyatt calls a book “a permanent business card that amplifies your influence.” If you start today, you could be holding that influence in your hands within a year.
Your Next Step
Every day you delay is another day your book could be working for you — attracting opportunities, building your authority, and sharing your story with readers.
Whether you want to write a nonfiction book to grow your business or share your personal expertise with the world, the best time to start is now. Even 10 minutes a day can change everything.
I’m Mercedes Westbrook, a book coach and media/marketing professional. I help aspiring authors go from idea to published book — with clarity, strategy, and encouragement every step of the way.
Start your book today. Let’s get your story out of your head and into the world.
About Mercedes Westbrook
Mercedes Westbrook is a book coach, media and marketing professional, and founder of Firehorse Media. With years of experience helping authors craft impactful nonfiction, she combines strategic marketing insight with hands-on guidance to help clients bring their stories to life. Her work has been praised by authors and entrepreneurs alike for its clarity, encouragement, and results-driven approach. Learn more at www.firehorsemedia.co.za