The Space That Makes a Book Happen with Sheryl Andrews [S5 E14]

Ready to make real progress on your book? In this episode of Business Book Bites, Karen Williams and Sheryl Andrews dive deep into the concept of creating space to write – beyond just physically sitting down at your desk. They share insights from years of running writing retreats and coaching authors, exploring why just carving out time isn’t enough. From managing life’s distractions (like bathroom renovations!) and breaking away from daily triggers, to finding the environments and support systems that truly nurture creativity, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom. Karen and Sheryl talk about the transformative power of writing with others, processing emotions that surface through storytelling, and the vital importance of peer support, accountability, and kindness on your author journey. Whether you’re squeezing in writing before breakfast or dreaming of a week in sunny Spain, this episode will help you redefine how you think about making space for your book—and inspire you to commit, connect, and create your best work. ** Upcoming Events ** If you’d like to find out more about how we can support you with your book, come along to one of our free monthly online networking event, the Coffee and Connect Café, held on the first Tuesday of each month except May when we take a break. You’ll get learning, ideas, and the chance to connect with other authors. You can find out more about all our upcoming events and programmes (including our writing retreats and Smart Author Momentum) at https://www.librotas.com/librotasevents. Or contact Karen Williams to find out how she can help you via www.librotas.com. Key insights Space isn’t just physical—it’s mental and emotional. It's not just about finding a quiet room or retreat (though those help!), but also about giving your brain permission to transition into writing mode and being mindful of the emotional journey that comes with authorship. Peer support is invaluable. Talking your ideas through with others (as in their Author Circle and Smart Author Momentum groups) helps clarify thoughts, unlock memories, and normalize the ups and downs. “Having another human being there...reduces the stress in the system because you feel less alone.” Growth happens in the messy middle. Writing a book isn't just a creative project; it’s a personal transformation. You’ll process emotions, revisit tough moments, and become more visible as you commit to your book – and peer support and retreats accelerate this growth. Bio – Karen Williams Karen Williams is The Book Mentor at Librotas®, a leading authority in helping experts, entrepreneurs, and leaders write and market non-fiction books. Having started out in business in 2006, and writing her first book in 2009, she knows the difference that writing a book can make to your business when done well. With a focus on sharing significant stories and memorable messages, Karen guides her clients through the entire process of planning, writing, marketing, and launching a book that boosts credibility, attracts new clients, and creates exciting opportunities. Karen is the bestselling author of 10 books and a TEDx speaker. Website: https://librotas.com Socials: https://www.facebook.com/librotas https://twitter.com/librotas https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenwilliamslibrotas/ https://www.instagram.com/karenwilliamslibrotas https://www.youtube.com/@librotas Bio – Sheryl Andrews Sheryl Andrews is The Listening Detective and is known for helping you do more of what you love and ditch the critic that says you can’t. Sheryl spends her time supporting individuals to work, learn and live at their best, both independently and in groups, and her first book, Manage Your Critic, was published in 2016 and she is currently writing her second. Website: https://stepbysteplistening.com Time-stamped overview: 00:00 Challenges of Transitioning to Writing04:27 Creating Space for Writing06:31 Rest, Space, and Fresh Perspectives11:46 The Power of Peer Support13:32 Finding Voice Through Shared Space16:44 Isolation Triggers Brain Survival State20:41 Creating Focused Writing Spaces24:12 The Author's Journey of Growth27:27 The Journey to Writing Again30:04 Finding Support to Write Keywords: writing a book, writing retreats, author retreats, writing mode, peer support, writing groups, overcoming inner critic, book growth, author identity, clean space, clean language, body doubling, neurodiversity and writing, survival brain, safe space, writing tone of voice, feedback, group book coaching, author circle, publishing a book, safe space to write, writing support, author support, writing retreats Spain, smart author momentum