# Transformative Lessons from Writing a Book That Enhanced My Blogging Skills
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Chapter 1: Laying the Groundwork for Success
For more than a year, my sole focus was on crafting my first book about bridging the gap between strategy and execution. When I wasn't immersed in writing, I dedicated my time to reading and researching. Beyond that, I was engaged in rewriting, editing, and contemplating the various stages of my writing journey.
I honed in on a single concept, refining it until it surpassed my original expectations. To elevate my work, I collaborated with a professional conceptual editor, ultimately sharing my creation with the world. Below are three pivotal lessons from this experience that have greatly influenced my blogging approach.
Delayed Gratification
Throughout the writing of Getting Shit Done, I refrained from publishing any other content. The book developed chapter by chapter, accumulating nearly 80,000 words across ten chapters. I crafted the narrative in a way that necessitated a front-to-back reading, as dissecting it into fragments would disrupt its flow.
This writing journey instilled in me a sense of patience. While blogging often tempts us with the thrill of quickly posting catchy content and basking in the immediate feedback of likes and shares, I learned the value of delayed gratification. I aimed for excellence in each chapter, prioritizing quality over quick wins.
Early drafts of my chapters were far from impressive. My writing lacked maturity and was heavily influenced by fleeting impulses. The initial outpouring of thoughts required time and introspection to evolve into meaningful insights. By withholding my work from public view until it was fully polished, I produced something that transcended my previous capabilities.
Allowing my ideas to simmer ultimately resulted in content that resonated with readers. Through a cycle of writing, reflection, and revision, I evolved as a writer. This practice taught me to concentrate on the craft rather than the accolades.
The Power of Focus
In strategic thinking, the principle of "no" is paramount. With a multitude of distractions vying for attention, prioritizing only the essential can significantly enhance the quality of writing and foster originality.
By committing to a single topic, I liberated myself to delve deeply into my thoughts, uncovering profound insights and weaving diverse ideas into a cohesive narrative. Concentrating solely on crafting the best possible book allowed me to deepen the conceptual foundation of each chapter and the overall structure.
There were days when I accomplished little, but these moments of rest were crucial for mental rejuvenation and preparation for the next phase of my creative journey. Not only did I reject other writing topics, but I also minimized distractions in my life. Throughout an entire year, my life revolved around this book. Though it occasionally strained personal relationships, I remained resolute. This unwavering focus helped me build and maintain the momentum needed to realize my writing ambitions.
Focus taught me the importance of fully committing to an idea in order to create something truly remarkable.
The Importance of Investing in Yourself
By the time I reached the fifth chapter, I recognized the value of hiring a professional developmental editor. His insights proved invaluable.
Not only did my editor assist in structuring my work and ensuring my arguments were logically sound, but he also offered candid feedback that friends might hesitate to give. Phrases like, “Ben, this chapter is juvenile,” or “You’re being contradictory,” were harsh yet necessary truths.
Had a friend shared similar critiques, I might have dismissed them, but because I invested in this professional guidance, I valued his perspectives and incorporated his suggestions into my work with a 95% acceptance rate.
The cost of the editor surpassed what I might earn from the book, but neglecting to invest in expert feedback would have been short-sighted. Now, with multiple books and services available, I am poised for greater financial success in the long run. My investment in my development as an author has equipped me to think, write, and organize at a professional level.
Conclusion
Writing a book transformed my identity from amateur to author, enhancing both my thought processes and abilities. I discovered my unique voice and style through the lessons of delayed gratification, focused effort, and self-investment.
As I continue to write, the foundational skills and training I acquired enrich my work. My ongoing journey in writing books and blogging reflects the growth I have experienced. If you aspire to improve your writing skills, I encourage you to adopt these principles as well.
Ben
Thank you for sticking around until the end; I truly appreciate your time! Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments—engagement is always welcome. I look forward to seeing you in the next article. You can explore my work here, on my blog, and on LinkedIn.
WRITER'S STRATEGY EXECUTION WORKSHOP
Getting Shit Done: The No-Nonsense Framework for Closing the Strategy-Execution Gap