On Writing: That Spark of Inspiration

I confessed to my coach last week that I was frustrated with my book’s outline.  I need to prepare the first four chapters to submit to a agent.  From my perspective, the first four chapters are the least interesting, and yet they’re absolutely critical.  

My coach stepped in and pointed out that by subtly changing my viewpoint, I can make those dull chapters more interesting.  It was almost too simple.  All of a sudden I looked at my outline with a new set of eyes.  I didn’t need to rewrite the outline or change things around in the book–I just needed a new approach.  

And just like that, I was back on track.

Thanks, Coach!

An Ode to my Coach

I have a business coach.  As you might have read, I’ve been having trouble getting my book done.  My book is tied to my business.  I explained my challenges to my business coach, and by the time we ended our conversation I had much more clarity, along with a clear vision of how to proceed.  My business coach is now my writing coach.

The benefit of having a coach is that he won’t hold back.  He told me to refocus my efforts and head in a different direction, which is exactly what I needed.  

A writing coach can be anyone, from a friend to a relative to a trusted colleague.  The important thing is that you find someone who won’t be afraid to push you or challenge your ideas.  The idea is to help you, not hinder you.  Having someone who will keep you accountable and focused on your goals will only move you toward your end goal even faster.

So…many thanks, Coach.  You’re the best!

Now…back to writing….