Becoming an Author

I was a writer first….

I have been a writer for a long time.
I really enjoy writing within a structure and this started back in high school when I just “got” essay writing. This affinity with writing within a framework extended into university where I happily churned out written assignments by hand (yes, I’m that old) and then into my career where I have written countless business cases, web content, job descriptions, letters, briefs, training manuals and so much more.

More recently, I developed a “side hustle”, writing resumes and selection criteria for people applying for jobs.

I’ve always been curious about how a writer becomes an author, what motivates them to get their book written and published.

However, I’ve never been interested in writing fiction. I have found that’s the sector most discussed and churning about on the internet; creative writing courses abound but I don’t want to be a creative writer, making up a made-up world!!

My attention was caught by a Facebook advertisement about a half day seminar for aspiring authors who wanted to write a book on their chosen topic of expertise. A non-fiction book that might be a “how-to” style book or personal experience. Bingo! I booked it.

The author workshop

I went along with writing resumes in mind. Maybe I could write a how-to book, with easy to follow tips on how to write and tailor your resume to new jobs.

There were thirty or so other people there too, all with various expert topics or personal experiences to share. One of the workshop teachings was how to make your expertise, your business. It was very inspiring to hear about how someone can go from writing a book about something they know well and expand that into so much more. For example speaking engagements, business collaboration within relevant industries and so on. I’m not sure what it was exactly, that triggered a new idea in my mind, but it was during the workshop that I thought; what in my own life did I really enjoy and tend to talk a lot about? The answer was a light bulb moment.
Roam Alone was born.

It’s just my niche. Writing to a structure, about a topic I love. Why not!!

So, I have three points for you to take away from this blog post.
One, I am publishing my book through The Ultimate 48 Hour Author. Look them up to see what they offer in terms of publishing, if this is up your alley.

Two, if you want to write and publish a book, DO IT. Don’t feel boxed in by expectations and keep an eye out for opportunities that suit you, like me with my non-fiction preference.

Lastly, during my publishing process, I have met (well, ok online and by phone!) another author, also publishing a book about her experience in travel. Glenda has traveled a lot but unlike me, she LOVES to live on the edge! Her book is about her adventure travel in far-flung places.
Her details are below and like me, her book is currently on pre-sale. Check it out!

THE WORLD IS YOUR PEARL, By Glenda Wise.