Important Lessons Learned from a Bestselling Coach's Mistakes

The first time I spoke to a bestselling author, I made a rookie mistake. My admiration for her, mixed with equal parts curiosity and excitement, plunged me into "extraction mode."

"Don’t blow this opportunity. You might never have a chance to ask these kinds of questions again," echoed the voice of my starry-eyed fourth-grade self, who dreamt of being an author and wrote endlessly but never finished a story without it ending with someone waking up from a dream.

Mistake #1: I was more focused on what I could get from the conversation, rather than what I could contribute.

She had graciously agreed to give me fifteen minutes of her time, so I came prepared with a notebook to capture every bit of wisdom and advice that might roll off her tongue.

As soon as she was on the line and asked what questions I had, I fired away with the biggest, most loaded question imaginable: “What did you have to do to become a bestselling author?”

Mistake #2: My question was too nuanced and complex for the brief time we had, even though it seemed reasonable at the moment, given that she had been on the bestseller list for fifty-four consecutive weeks.

With grace, she steered the conversation differently, asking me to share where I was with my book project.

“Do you have a completed manuscript?” she inquired in a supportive tone.

“I don’t,” I admitted, my cheeks warming with embarrassment.

“Well, why don’t we start there?”

Mistake #3: Even if she could have fully answered my initial question, the advice would have been too advanced for my early stage in the book-writing process.

Reflecting on that day, I realize the incredible gift she offered wasn't just her time; it was her ability to meet me where I was and guide me to focus on what truly mattered.

Her example has proved invaluable not only in my own journey to becoming a bestselling author but also in my current role as a book coach and publishing mentor. Often, we don’t know what we don’t know, and we need someone to help us ask the right questions and take the appropriate steps at the right time. I now strive to provide that guidance to my clients, helping them navigate the complex world of book writing and publishing.

Why Working with a Book Coach is Invaluable

Reflecting on my conversation with that bestselling author all those years ago, I recognized not just the gift of her time but also the importance of having guidance tailored to my specific stage in the writing process. This realization has deeply informed my approach as a book coach. Here's how working with a book coach like myself can significantly benefit your book project:

Guided Navigation: Just as I was gently redirected to focus on immediate and actionable steps, I help authors navigate through each phase of their book's journey, ensuring that they make steady progress while aligning with their ultimate publishing goals.

Accountability: Writing can be a solitary endeavor. A book coach serves as your accountability partner, encouraging you to keep going when motivation wanes and celebrating your successes along the way.

Tailored Feedback: Every author and manuscript is unique. I provide customized feedback that enhances your book's appeal to your intended audience and elevates its professional quality.

Pitfall Prevention: Many first-time errors can be avoided with the right advice. My experience allows me to foresee potential pitfalls and steer you clear of them, saving you time and frustration.

Focus and Clarity: Often, the greatest challenge authors face is not the act of writing itself but structuring their writing to maintain clarity and focus on their key message. As a book coach, I help you maintain sharp focus, ensuring that every chapter aligns with and supports your book’s goals.

Embracing these benefits can transform a daunting process into a rewarding journey, culminating in a book that truly reflects your vision and expertise.

If you're ready to take your book from concept to completion with less stress and more success, I'm here to guide you every step of the way. Reach out today to learn how my coaching can personalize your path to becoming a published author.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Life and business strategist turned bestselling book coach, publishing mentor, and founder of She Gets Published, Lanette Pottle, helps female coaches and entrepreneurs create books that lead to new clients, bigger stages, & more profits. Need help getting started ( or unstuck) on your book journey? Book a call with Lanette today.