Ever considered writing and publishing a book? ( I say “writing and publishing” because even if a publishing house prints your book you’re still going to be very involved in promoting it!) I’ve been told that 90% of folks have some kind of dream or at least fantasy of writing a book so perhaps you do, too.

I know for a fact that it can become more than a bucket-list item!

My first book came out this week. So I thought you may enjoy reading about my experience. Perhaps I can answer some questions and offer some insight into what it really takes.

One caveat, though: I realize your experience could vastly differ from mine. Still, here are five useful lessons I learned. Hopefully, you find them helpful!

It took a lot longer than I thought. I completed my degree and research in 2013. Wesleyan Publishing House published The Emotionally Intelligent Pastor in October 2019. So, start to finish, six years!

Now, in my case, I was slowed down by the fact that I was simultaneously creating a conceptual framework of Emotional Intelligence in the work of a pastor as well as designing training materials. In other words, it was a big project. Plus, honestly, I am not by nature quick. Point is, though, if you’re like me, you’ve got to be prepared for what potentially could be a long haul.
It can be stressful. I particularly found the publishing aspect challenging simply because, frankly, I didn’t know what I was doing! After you put heart and soul into a book for years, you want it published. You want the best deal possible. And the publishing business can be difficult to navigate. Be prepared to learn as much as you can about it beforehand!
I needed help. This applies both to writing and publishing. The fact is, I would not have been able to write a book worthy of publication without the help of a fantastic editor and really co-writer, Len Woods. Len brought ideas and skills that I simply do not possess. I recommend that when you write your book, you reach out to editors, book shepherds, consultants, agents and/or others to help you get it done.
I expected publishing a book to open new doors… and it has! Even though my book just hit bookshelves (figuratively speaking) as I write this, it’s already provided a platform for new opportunities. Just last week I gave the keynote speech at the 2019 Wesleyan Church New Pastors Conference. So fun and exciting to meet and share with many wonderful people. Never would have happened without the book.
It can be exciting. Yes, earlier I said it can be stressful. However, there’s an incredible thrill to know you’ve birthed a book that will help people (and carry your name) for as long as it lives!

Finally, here’s a bonus “lession”: I learned a few things about myself. One time I recall telling Len, whom I mentioned above, that I was unable to make an assigned deadline because I was so busy, visiting grandkids in Florida, etc. He responded by talking to me about internal resistance. He asked what resistance I thought I might be experiencing. I found this hilarious since I’m a psychologist. It sounded exactly like a question I would ask one of my clients!

However, he was absolutely spot on. I did some journaling, made some adjustments and ultimately finished my book.

Thinking of publishing a book? What’s holding you back? What are your areas of internal resistance? Let me know in the comments section! Are you a published author? What lessons would you add to my list?

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Five Useful Lessons I Learned By Writing and Publishing My First Book