Writing a Book Is Like a Long-Term Relationship

Chapter After Chapter: Discover the Dedication & Focus You Need to Write the Book of Your Dreams by Heather Sellers

Writing a book is a long-term relationship, and you already have (hopefully!) some strategies for making those kinds of relationships work. What are they? I would love to see your list. When you are in trouble, relationship-wise, what do you do? For example, you might list:

1. Check in every day.
2. Buy a present.
3. Plan fun things to do together.
4. Don't always talk about the kids.
5. Listen.

Try for five strategies. Then, write a sentence or paragraph on how you might actively apply that relationship strategy to your book.

When my book turns a cold shoulder to me, I know it's just insecure and unsure—it feels like it doesn't trust me, and maybe it's right! I don't know what the hell I am doing. So I can buy it a present—it loves new office supplies like I love jewelry. Cartridges, a box for all the file cards, really nice paper. Maybe if we can get the first draft done by our one-year anniversary, we can buy a flat-screen monitor. We can pick it out together!