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Overview of Write Out Loud
If you need help determining where to start or are at a crossroads in your writing process, I recommend Write Out Loud. The 212-page book is divided into six sections. Each section tackles the critical parts of the book-writing journey. While each section offers valuable tips and insight, the first section, Introduction: Your Story Matters, explores your reason for writing a book, overcoming fears, and building an author persona. She even tackles the debate about when a person is considered an author. Nakashima states, “An author is someone who writes a work with the intention of putting that work through a formal publishing process.”
While the entire book is full of insights on how to write a book, I paid particular attention to the second section, Write and Never Look Back. Since I used to struggle at the beginning of my book-writing journey, I enjoyed reading Nakashima’s advice on They Call it a Rough Draft for a Reason, The Trick to Getting Started, and Staying Motivated to Write Everyday.
The best part of the book was…
The most satisfying part of the book was when Nakashima wrote, “So, how do I force myself to write every day? I don’t. I force myself to go through my routine every day, and I force myself to recognize my progress as progress every day.” Boom, there it was! For weeks I have been feeling behind schedule and disappointed in my progress in writing my third book. But after reading, Write Out Loud, I’m back on track.
Before closing out the book, Nakashima inspires readers to share their book with the world by building an author platform. She explains that an author platform is a stage where an author’s brand sits publicly. An author platform includes how authors promote themselves and their work to their target audience, both online and offline.
Conclusion
Looking to elevate your writing career or finally get that book written? Look no further than Write Out Loud. This book promises to give you the motivation and drive to see your writing projects through to the end. So step up your writing game and achieve your dreams with Write Out Loud.
Writing your first draft can be a very daunting experience. It can feel like you need to get it perfect or your work is not good. Trust me; we’ve all been there. However, your first draft only needs to be that– a first draft. It is something to build and work on; no pressure is needed.
Before you start writing, your first question might be, “How do I write the first draft of a book?” To answer this question, I suggest creating SMART goals.
Your next question might be, “What do I include in my first draft?” This post outlines everything you need to include in your book’s first draft for fiction and nonfiction.
Read on for more.
Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using the links.
What to include in a first draft: fiction
Fiction writers have plenty of freedom when it comes to their first draft. There is no limit to your imagination; you can write about whatever you choose.
However, a first draft always needs some key features to ensure you have the makings of a good story. So let’s check them out in more detail below.
In your first draft, you will need:
Setting
Characters
Story structure
Tone and theme
Setting
One of the most important parts of your story is the setting. The story’s setting is a great way to portray a theme, motif, or message you want to get across. The setting is just as important as your plot and characters in making reading your story an immersive experience for a reader.
In your first draft, you should explore your setting and make sure its role in your story is clear. You need to ask yourself:
How does the setting move the story forward?
Do the characters relate and respond to their world? If so, how?
Does the setting influence the decisions and actions of the characters?
Characters
Before you start the first draft, you likely have a vague idea of the characters who play important parts in your story. It’s important to develop your protagonist, antagonist, and side characters.
All of these characters should be rich and fleshed out. Create profiles for your characters that outlines every part of their life. Flesh these characters out and make them into people readers will like, dislike, and be interested in.
In your first draft, you have an excellent opportunity to explore each character, learning their strengths and weaknesses, how they make decisions and everything that makes them who they are. This will help you learn how to use them to make the plot move forward.
Story Structure
It is okay for your first draft to be rough, but it does need to illustrate your overall plot. It needs to have a clear beginning, middle, and end. Of course, that is not to say that you cannot change the plot in future edits. This is certainly possible, but your first draft still needs to work through the main plot as it stands clearly.
One of the best parts of a first draft is that it gives the writer a clear vision of the plot and what works and doesn’t. You will find plot holes you may not have seen while creating the plot through the writing process. It’s okay if the plot naturally changes as you write your boo.
Think of the first draft as a test drive for the overall story, and fully immerse yourself in creating that journey for the reader.
Tone And Theme
The tone of your work will take shape on its own as you write. You can try to set the tone you want initially and carry on with creative exploration until you stumble upon the tone that best fits your story. One of the most fun parts of writing is watching a story unfold before your eyes.
What to include in a first draft: nonfiction
Nonfiction works need to have clearly outlined points, messages, and facts. Let’s check out the details of what to include in your first draft of nonfiction below.
Research
A significant portion of the nonfiction writer’s work is research. Therefore, during the prewriting stage, gather as much research as possible before you try to write your first draft.
Understanding your message
Here, your first draft is about exploring what your message is and how you can best convey it. So, You don’t need to worry about writing it in chronological order; you can write whatever part of the book you want first. The most important thing here is to ensure all your points are written down and your message is coherent.
Of course, you will still need an introduction, a conclusion, etc., but you can save these for last to focus on the main bulk of the work.
Here are some more general tips for writing your first draft.
Don’t fear failure or struggle
A good book was not written in one night with a few swishes of a pen. This means that one draft will not be enough. You may need to write many before your book is finished. This is good because it means your work is refined and you are improving as a writer. Try to enjoy the journey of writing the book. Don’t only focus on the end goal. Don’t let the fear of failure or struggle stop you from enjoying the process.
Ignore your inner critic
Your inner critic is an important voice, but not when writing your first draft. This part of the writing process is about being playful and creative exploration. So, let go of the inner critic and let your writing flow freely.
Ask for feedback
Feedback from publishers and other writers, even for your first draft, is invaluable because they will be able to help you iron out non-urgent problems and provide insight into what they think the story or message is about, who the characters are, etc. This will be useful for other drafts.
Final thoughts
Your first draft can be a daunting idea, but I hope this article provides useful insight into what to include, what to let go of, and how fun it can be to start writing your book.
Writing is hard. Despite your best efforts, you can never find enough time to get your content out the door. You dream about the day when you have a writing routine that helps you write and publish content consistently. If this sounds familiar, it may be time for you to fix your broken writing routine immediately.
But what if I told you I know how you feel? Despite writing content for work, I struggled to write every book I started between 1997 and 2017. Ten years! However, in six months, I became a published author by making a few changes in my writing routine.
I will share some tips to help you fix your writing routine. By adding these tips to your writing routine, you’ll find a flow and a process that works for you.
Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you purchase using the links.
(Photo: Shutterstock)
Take small steps to make big changes
Lean Six Sigma is an effective method used to solve problems. For example, I learned to use Lean Six Sigma tools while working as a communicator in manufacturing. Since it was clear my writing routine wasn’t working, I turned to Six Sigma to help me solve the problem.
I decided to use the Kaizen approach, which uses small steps to improve a process, a habit, or a product. While I believe in the DMAIC tool, where you create a plan to define, measure, analyze, improve and control a process, I decided to make my version called AIM, which allows me to analyze, improve and manage.
I recorded my answers on sticky notes, which I put on a large piece of paper taped to the wall. Once I reviewed my notes, I discovered a few reoccurring themes. Whether writing an article or a book, I realized that time and place were issues affecting my writing.
To improve, I turned to Dr. Robert Maurer’s book, One Small Step Can Change Your Life: The Kaizen Way. Dr. Maurer believes that by taking small steps to correct a problem, we only need to take small actions to achieve our goal.
I agree and embrace this approach. So, I asked myself, ‘What small steps will I take to fix my problems in managing when and where I write?’ The small steps I decide to take serve as actions to fix my problems.
Finally, to help me manage my writing routine, I kept my actions visible to stay focused.
Action step: Analyze your current writing routine to determine what works and what doesn’t work. Be honest with yourself. Determine what small actions you will take to improve.
Say goodbye to excuses
If you want to be a writer, you must constantly improve. Jerry Jenkins
As a certified Six-Sigma communicator who tells clients, ‘Change does not have to be hard. You can do this,’ it was time to take my advice and change my thinking about writing.
With the research compiled to start my small actions list, I examined my unfinished writing projects to see any worth saving. A book I wanted to write was the only thing worth pursuing. But before I started researching, outlining, or writing, I had to deal with my problem with finding the right time and a place to write.
My list of reasons I could not write included too much work, too many projects; family obligations like taking my son to swim practice; carpool duty; and not writing in my favorite spot. The list was long.
But my reasons were excuses. It was as if I expected time and opportunity to tap me on the shoulder. But it never happened.
Not finding the right time and place to write were excuses I needed to kiss goodbye.
Action step: Make a list of why you struggle with your writing projects. Pick out the excuses. Determine what small actions you will take moving forward. Add the information to your vision board.
See yourself in the future
Change starts in one’s mind.
Real change requires both head and hands. In addition to doing things differently, we must also think differently. For me, this meant prioritizing my writing.
I practiced mind imagery to complete my book, where I saw myself writing and finishing my first book. Used by professional athletes like Tiger Woods and Michael Jordan, mind imagery allows you to see yourself completing a task like swinging a golf club, making the winning shot, or, in my case, picking up a copy of my first book.
How often did I do this? Every day until I finished the book.
I envisioned myself writing everywhere through imagery – in my kitchen, at airports, in train stations, in the carpool line (before school let out). And it worked – soon, I was able to write consistently.
If you want to see a change in your actions, you must first change your thinking.
Karen Brown Tyson
Action step: Identify one to two writing projects you want to complete. Use mind imagery to envision yourself finishing your next writing project.
Divide writing projects into manageable tasks
Armed with a new way of thinking, I ditched my old writer mindset.
I got rid of all romantic fantasies about locking myself in a room for an entire weekend and emerging with a 50,000-word manuscript ready for publication.
I am not saying writing 50,000 in two days can’t happen. I’m just saying I no longer think about writing a book this way.
Writing a book can be a big challenge. I realized writing a book overwhelmed me to the point I would give up.
I divided my book writing project into manageable tasks and created a writing map with my new mindset.
One thing to remember: the writing map is only a guide. I still created a detailed outline and marketing plan for my book.
Action step: Create a writing map. Identify the steps you will take to complete your writing assignment. Post your writing map where it is visible.
Find the right time and place to write
Have you ever struggled to find the right time and place to write? I did.
I had no problem writing content anywhere and everywhere for work. Writing presentations at the airport before a flight? No problem. Writing a press release before bed after an 18-hour day? No problem. Writing one chapter of my book during a five-day business trip? Not happening.
It was easy to put other people’s projects and priorities ahead of mine. I had to learn it was okay to take care of the world as long as I cared for myself.
Does this describe your writing life? If so, it’s time to get a grip on when and where you write.
Step 1 — Determine the most important things you must have each time you write. My must-have items are a laptop, notebook and pen, and headphones. If you need coffee, add it to your list.
Step 2 – Whether you write at home or want to write while traveling, figure out how you will manage potential distractions. For example, I write at the kitchen table when everyone is out of the house at home. However, when I write in public places like coffee shops, airports, or train stations, I use my headphones to minimize noise and distractions.
Step 3 — Identify your ideal time to write. Pick a time when you are most creative. For example, I like to write between 5 and 10 a.m. using my laptop. However, if I’m traveling and don’t have time to write until later afternoon, I use a notebook to capture my thoughts.
Imagine sitting down to write again, but you are eager to get to work this time.
Instead of dreading the sight of your computer, you look forward to writing.
You took the necessary steps to find time to write.
You’ve got your new writing routine. Now all you have to do is follow it.
The world is waiting to read your next masterpiece.
Since launching my writing business in 2018, I have learned a lot. I have attended writing conferences, dialed into countless webinars, taken courses, and listened to many speakers and authors. But the most important thing I’ve learned over the last four years is how to be a fearless writer.
Starting, I didn’t immediately see myself as a writer. Yes, I was writing my first book. But I didn’t stop to tell anyone I was a writer. I didn’t immediately change my LinkedIn profile. I just focused on writing my book.
But once I published my book, reality set in, and I had to admit: I am an author. I am a writer.
From there, I started showing up where writers and authors hang out – conferences, Facebook groups, webinars, NaNoWriMo, book fairs, and writing groups. Listening to other writers talk about their experiences and ask questions was exciting. But no matter where I went, there was a constant vibe in all these places – self-doubt and fear.
Lots of writers were talking about whether their writing was:
good enough,
clear enough,
making a difference,
worthy of recognition or
connecting with readers.
While I had no reason to question the other writers’ feelings, I had to come clean about how I felt moving forward with my newfound identity. On my journey to becoming a fearless writer, I had to identify the things I would give up to succeed as a writer. Below is a list of things I decided to give up. If you’re a writer or creative entrepreneur, let me know what you choose to give up to be fearless.
Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost, if you purchase using the links.
1. I gave up self-doubt
We all have an inner voice that tells us what we want to do with our lives. Unfortunately, this little voice is often pushed aside by self-doubt. Like many writers, my initial thoughts were, “How am I going to make money as a writer?” “What will people think of my writing?” and “What if I fail?” To deal with these thoughts, I had to trust in God. I had to trust that I would end up where I needed to be, even if I didn’t know how I would get there.
2. I gave up fear
I am a firm believer in making lemonade when life gives you lemons. So when my unexpected layoff stormed into my life and shook up my carefully constructed plans, I wasn’t about to cower in fear. Instead, I decided to rise and face life’s challenges head-on, including starting my new writing career.
3. I gave up the urge to compare myself to other writers
I know how easy it is to look at the success of other writers and wonder if you’re on the right track. So, I decided early on to celebrate other writers’ accomplishments but never waste time comparing myself to other writers. While I think it’s OK to listen to other writers and share stories, I try to stay focused on the race I’m running.
I love to proofread my material to ensure everything is perfect and in place. However, I had to resist the urge to apply endless edits so that I could hold on to my work longer. Eventually, I learned to determine how many revisions my writing would go through. Once I reach my magic number, I hit publish. To become a fearless writer, I learned when to let go.
5. I gave up my comfort zone
We all have a comfort zone. My comfort zone was back in corporate America. However I realized that my comfort zone might not be where I will have the most significant impact. So I decided to do something I hadn’t done before in my writing life like publish a book. Once I reached my goal, I knew I would have to go outside my comfort zone again. So, every opportunity I get, I look for ways to take my writing to the next level.
What are you willing to give up?
Now, it’s your turn. The next time you think:
What if my writing isn’t good enough? Say to yourself, what if it is?
What if no one wants to read anything I write? Say to yourself, what if they do?
What if my book proposal gets rejected? Say to yourself, what if it doesn’t?
Writing is a journey filled with trials. Be kind to yourself. Say goodbye to doubt and fear. Don’t be afraid to embrace your role as a writer in this world. Instead, let this be the year you start looking at your writing life differently.
This page contains affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using the links.
As we turn our focus to creativity, I am so pleased to present Valerie Nifora’s guest post on what prevents people from following their dreams. Valerie is the author of,I Asked the Wind: A Collection of Romantic Poetry.I hope you enjoy. Please share your thoughts in the comments.
I was tapping my pencil and staring out the window when a question someone asked me recently kept repeating in my head. She wanted to know what prevents people from following their dreams of becoming an author?
Thinking hard about this question, the easy answers are:
lack of motivation,
not knowing how to start,
not having enough resources, or
required expertise.
But, what I think it boils down to is one-word fear — fear of failure (granted), but more subtle is fear of success.
WHERE DO DREAMS BEGIN?
I can speak from my own experience, that it was my dream to be a published author. It all started in fourth grade when my teacher had us write a story and then bind it in a book. (My mother has it in a drawer somewhere where she keeps these things like most mothers.) Something very magical happened that day that carried in my heart quietly for about four decades.
Oh, to be a published author with my name on the spine! I visualized that a lot and often. I would start and stop query letters. I would start and stop (and sometimes loose) manuscripts. And I would take every failed attempt because who among us isn’t used to failure?
Failure is a familiar friend. It sits next to you with one arm around your shoulder hovering between, “I told you so,” and “At least you tried.”
But success? Goodness! Success is the popular girl at the party, and everyone wants to talk to her. Who wants that pressure?
THE TRUTH ABOUT SUCCESS
If we really think about it, many of us feel that success will change us or change our lives or make things different. So isn’t it easier not to bother? If you’re successful in achieving your dream well, then you’re accountable for it now. You own it. It’s yours.
But here’s the part that I didn’t realize — doing the thing you dream about, actually doing it — even in small measures is enormously gratifying. If you don’t worry about succeeding at it (Not sure I’ll ever make NY Times Best Seller or Poet Laureate), somehow it comes. And it doesn’t matter how successful whatever your dream is — the joy of using your talents fulfills itself!
So, I’m not sure what your dream is (big or small) go ahead and give it a go. And even if you can’t do it on a big scale and you have to do it “small,” so what — you did it. Stop worrying and just do it. The world will thank you for it.
Bonus tips for writing your first draft 
