The Influencers Formula™ Method: The 5 Biggest Book Writing Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

Writing a book is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming.

Many authors start with enthusiasm but get stuck, waste time, and even give up because of avoidable mistakes.

The good news? You don’t have to make those mistakes.

Here are the five biggest book writing pitfalls—and how to avoid them so you can write, publish, and profit from your book successfully.

❌ “I want to write a book.”
✅ “I want to write a book that attracts clients, builds my brand, and makes an impact.”

Many authors start writing without a clear vision for their book. The result?

📌 The book lacks focus.
📌 Readers don’t see the value.
📌 The book doesn’t support the author’s business or goals.

The Fix: Before you write, ask yourself:
✔ Why am I writing this book? (Positioning? Lead generation? Legacy?)
✔ Who is my ideal reader? (What do they need, and how does my book serve them?)
✔ What’s the transformation my book offers? (How will readers change after reading it?)

A book without purpose is just words on a page. A book with clarity becomes a powerful tool for influence, impact, and income.

❌ “I’ll write and edit at the same time so it’s perfect.”
✅ “I’ll focus on getting my first draft done, then edit later.”

One of the biggest reasons books don’t get finished? Overthinking and endless editing.

Authors get stuck in:
🚫 Perfectionism
🚫 Second-guessing every word
🚫 Trying to write and edit at the same time

The Fix: Follow the fast-draft method:
📌 Write without stopping—get the rough draft done first.
📌 Set a deadline to finish your first draft within 4-6 weeks.
📌 Only edit after the draft is complete.

Your first draft doesn’t need to be perfect—it just needs to exist. You can’t edit a blank page!

❌ “I’ll just start writing and see where it goes.”
✅ “I’ll create a book outline so I know exactly what to write.”

A book without a plan is like a road trip without a map—you’ll get lost, frustrated, and probably never reach the destination.

The Fix: Use a structured outline before you start writing.

📌 Step 1: Define the main theme of your book.
📌 Step 2: Break it into 3-5 major sections (acts, steps, or phases).
📌 Step 3: List chapter titles and key points for each section.

A solid outline helps you write faster, stay on track, and avoid writer’s block.

💡 Bonus Tip: Use the Champagne Glass Pyramid Method—start with your core message, then break it into chapters, subtopics, and supporting content.

❌ “I’ll focus on writing first, then figure out how to sell it later.”
✅ “I’ll build my audience WHILE I write so I have buyers ready on launch day.”

Too many authors write their book in secret—then struggle to sell it after it’s finished.

The Fix: Start marketing your book before you finish writing it.

📌 Talk about your book early – Post on social media, share sneak peeks, and involve your audience.
📌 Start an email list – Capture potential readers before your book is published.
📌 Use a beta reader group – Get early feedback and build excitement.

💡 Pro Tip: Get on podcasts and talk about your book’s topic before it launches—this creates buzz and pre-sells your book!

❌ “Once my book is out, the money will roll in.”
✅ “My book is a tool for bigger opportunities, not just book sales.”

Many authors believe book sales alone will make them rich. The reality? Most authors make more money from what their book leads to than the book itself.

The Fix: Use your book as a business growth tool:
📌 Speaking Gigs – A book positions you as an expert and opens doors for paid speaking.
📌 Coaching & Consulting – A book attracts high-ticket clients.
📌 Courses & Memberships – Your book’s content can become a paid program.

💡 Pro Tip: The 80% Advantage method ensures your book becomes a marketing asset that generates leads, clients, and new revenue streams.

🚫 Writing Without a Clear Purpose → ✅ Know your WHY before you start.
🚫 Overwriting and Never Finishing → ✅ Fast-draft first, edit later.
🚫 Writing Without a Structured Plan → ✅ Use a detailed book outline.
🚫 Ignoring Marketing Until After Writing → ✅ Build an audience while writing.
🚫 Thinking Publishing Alone = Success → ✅ Use your book as a business tool.

💡 Want expert guidance and a clear roadmap to finish your book FAST?
💡 Need a strategy to ensure your book is profitable, not just published?
💡 Looking for personalized coaching to avoid costly mistakes?

Let’s talk! Book a strategy call with Donna or Ben today. Schedule a call here​.