I’m hosting my first Brainstorm Your Book in 4 Fun Steps in the Midwest on Saturday, January 20th at 11 AM at Azteca 1 in Davenport, IA. I used to host these in Austin, Texas, and online so I’m excited to restart them. It’s my most popular class, for all skill levels and ages.
If you have dreamed of writing a book in 2024, try my method…But first, buy a new journal, some pens, and colored Post-It Notes (this is very important)!
Step 1: Write it down. (Time: 30-minutes)
Write down ONE word, topic, theme, event, story, or quote per Post-It Note and stick it in your journal. It’s that simple. The point is not to overwhelm you with everything that goes into creating a table of contents. If it helps—turn off your phone to avoid distraction.
Step 2: Epiphanies happen. (Time: 1-3 hours)
The hardest part of brainstorming your book is to resist the urge to organize your Post-it Notes after 30 minutes. You will need a few hours to remember words or topics you forgot to write down on your Post-It Notes. If you’re like me, your creativity cannot be scheduled. You may spend a few hours at the library or coffee shop only to come home and have an epiphany a few nights later in the middle of the night. This is normal! Grab your journal, write them down, and stick them in your journal for safekeeping.
Step 3: Watch for emerging patterns. (Time: 30-60 minutes)
Once you’ve written down everything you can think of on your Post-It Notes, begin to organize them. Clear a place on your desk, wall, or table, and take all the Post-It Notes out of your journal. As you organize your Post-It Notes—you will hopefully begin to see themes or patterns emerge.
Step 4: Re-Write Your Post-It Notes. (Time: 30-60 minutes)
Rewrite chapter titles in one color and place them at the top of your desk, wall, or table. Place every Post-It Note that goes with each chapter underneath. If you are unsure of chapters at this point, it is okay to choose one theme or pattern and re-write it on the same color Post-It Note. For instance, if you are writing a fiction book, each character is a different color Post-It Note, each plot-related Post-It Note is a different color, etc. If you are writing a non-fiction book, pick one color to represent each theme or storyline like past, present, or future. If it helps, ask a coach, trusted friend, or family member to help you organize and re-write.
“Writing your dreams is not about getting things perfect.” -Renee Fisher