Why Book Writers Need A Running Mate
Sankofa Literary Society Posting Home
Author: Robert F. Abbott
By far, I have found that the lack of discipline is the biggest
hindrance for most people, when it comes to writing a book of any
kind. Although I urge you as a would-be writer to develop a theme
because once you are clear on "why" you want to write a book, your
motivational level will shift into a higher gear, I also urge you to
get an accountability partner. This person will be the most important
asset you can have as a writer.
However, choose carefully, because the role of the accountability
partner is to make sure that you are following your commitment on a
daily basis. The partner is responsible for calling, e-mailing you or
talking to you by phone or in person every day to check the progress
of your book. This person should be gentle enough to keep you
encouraged, but forceful enough to not be afraid to chastise you.
In other words, your accountability partner will "hold your feet to
the fire" to make sure you keep moving forward. Believe me; this
person is worth his or her weight in gold. Why?
Although I promise you that writing a manuscript is easier than you
might think-you don't need to be a seasoned writer-it is not the
easiest thing in the world to do. There will be plenty of times when
you will want to scratch the whole idea. Your accountability partner
is your cheerleader, telling you, "We have spirit, yes we do!" and
exhorting you on to "V.I.C.T.O.R.Y.," even when it seems like you are
in the waning minutes of the game and your team is losing 42-0.
Games are played, one at a time. If you lose today, unless something
tragically happens, there will be another one tomorrow. Television's
Dr. Phil said, "Everyone wants to be a hero on Saturday. The big
difference between winners and losers is that the winners work hard
every day to do what it takes to win."
If you fail your writing task today, you can start again tomorrow.
However, losing seasons occur when in the end, you have lost more than
you have won. Most new writers and seasoned ones as well, don't write
as much as they can on a daily basis.
Even writing part-time, two pages per day is a good start, and more
can easily be done if the effort is put forth. However, most of us
need that extra push from someone who genuinely cares about us and our
project, to keep us in the game. Although it is good to find a like-
minded individual, in some ways, your accountability partner's
character should be diametrically opposed to your character.
For example, if you know you need a lot of hand-holding, your
accountability partner should definitely be a self-starter. If you are
a pessimist, your partner should be an optimist. However, if you are
an optimist, it is usually better for you not to pick a pessimist for
your partner.
By Marvin D. Cloud, founder of mybestseller Publishing Co. and author
of "Get Off The Pot: How to Stop Procrastinating and Write Your
Personal Bestseller in 90 Days." Visit http://www.mybestseller.com and
grab a free copy of the "Get Off The Pot" newsletter, which is
dedicated to motivating ordinary people with extraordinary stories.