If Not Now, When? The Urgency of Writing Your First Book - Authors After Action: Real Life Stories Behind the Books

Today, we're diving into the world of writing books with the incredible Ray Hartjen, who’s not just an author but a lifelong storyteller. Ray shares his journey from a B2B and B2C revenue guru to penning five diverse books, ranging from sports history to personal memoirs shaped by his own battle with cancer. We explore the nitty-gritty of getting started in writing, emphasizing that the key is simply to start—don't stress about the end product right away! Whether you’re crafting a memoir or a novel, the advice is clear: focus on those first few words and let the story flow. So, grab a comfy seat, maybe a snack, and let’s get ready to unleash our inner authors! A deep dive into the world of writing and storytelling unfolds as Ray Hartjen a multi-talented author and cancer patient advocate, shares his journey of transforming personal experiences into powerful narratives. Throughout the conversation, we explore how storytelling transcends mere words on a page, connecting deeply with readers and inspiring resilience. Ray reflects on his diverse writing career, spanning books on sports history, business strategies, personal memoirs, and his battle with cancer. He emphasizes that writing isn't just about completing a manuscript; it's about the therapeutic process of sharing one's truth and the lessons learned along the way. With a casual vibe and plenty of laughs, we also chat about practical tips for aspiring authors, like breaking down the daunting task of writing a book into manageable chunks, and the importance of just getting started. After all, as Ray reminds us, if not now, when?

Takeaways:

1. Writing a book requires overcoming inertia; just start with your first 250 words!
2. Your health journey can inspire others; be authentic in sharing your story.
3. Self-doubt is common among writers; remember, you’re stronger than you think!
4. Don’t stress about the final word count; focus on daily writing goals instead.
5. Publishing options range from traditional to self-publishing; choose what fits you best.
6. Engagement is key! Create stories that resonate with your audience's experiences.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. rayhartjen.com
2. rayHartjenmail.com