self-help writing

It’s definitely important to write a self-help book when it’s a trauma or problem you’ve personally faced. Someone who has never struggled with pornography and hates it can’t easily help someone who goes through it because the certain level of emotional and psychological understanding isn’t as strong as it is with someone who overcame a battle of pornography themselves.

There are three great styles of writing to self-help books:

1. Writing about an issue you’ve overcome

2. Writing about an issue you are overcoming

3. Writing about an issue you overcame while writing

The phrase, “A writer cannot take a reader where they have not gone themselves,” by Constance Kellough, couldn’t be more true. Here are some tips to guide you on the right pathway to making a successful self-help novel:

1. Do your research wisely. Should you use other resources, which it’s highly recommended you do, make sure the author or books you research are trained in the facts and know a thing or two about the topic. And always cite their work if you use it, whether word for word in quotes or paraphrasing.

2. The research should be the skeleton of your writing, but it’s important to stem from your own experiences and understanding, as well. Often, the most influential way to help someone in a situation is knowing they are not alone in the struggle. Being transparent may give the personal edge needed to impact a life.

3. There should be a purpose behind the self-help book besides just making someone aware of something. Define and refine your purpose, and make sure you don’t lose that focus in the writing process.

4. Be real with your readers. Some parts of your situation relating to your self-help book may not be completely resolved. That’s ok. Sometimes you won’t have the answer. But your book shouldn’t be a drama fest where you unload all your life’s problems and label it a self-help story. Save that for your private journal.

5. Failure doesn’t mean you didn’t learn. If you want to write about something you failed at, but you still learned from the experience, share what you’ve learned. Build your stance further based on other people’s experiences they are willing to share with you.

Above all other things, never be afraid to do what’s right. If this book is on your mind day and night and you truly think it’ll motivate others to learn, step out and write! So remember: Research, write your story and inspire and teach those about this purpose you hold dear to you. The rest will be history.

Citations:

Allenby, Sasha. “Write An Evolutionary Self-Help Book: The       Definitive Guide for Spiritual Entrepreneurs.” Http://Sashaallenby.com, Wisdompreneurs Publish, 2014.

Safford, David. “How to Write a Self Help Book.” The Write Practice, 10 July 2018, thewritepractice.com/how-to-write-a-self-help-book/.

Whitbourne, Susan. “Five Things You Need to Know About Self-Help Books.” Psychology Today, Sussex Publishers, 22 May 2012, www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/fulfillment-any-age/201205/five-things-you-need-know-about-self-help-books.