Why Some Authors Finish Their Books (and Others Don't)

In my work as a transformational book coach, I've noticed a clear difference between those who finish their books and those who struggle. 

The authors who finish aren't necessarily more disciplined, talented, or experienced. They've simply learned how to get out of their heads, quiet their inner critic, and write from a state of creative flow.

In my coaching work, I invite my clients on a personal journey of bringing awareness to their inner experience and energy as they write their books.

This inner work is the secret to their success in finding more clarity, overcoming obstacles, and writing their books from a state of flow.

(You can learn more about my Flow Method in my award-winning book, Awaken Into Flow: The Soulful Leader's Guide to Writing a Transformational Book.)

By flow, I am referring to the term ‘flow state,’ which describes a mental state of being in which a person is entirely focused on a single task or activity. They direct all their attention toward the task, and as a result, they don’t experience many thoughts about themselves or their performance. Some people refer to this informally as being “in the zone.” 

The concept of this kind of flow comes from positive psychology, the scientific study of human flourishing. During a state of flow, several changes take place in the brain.

Studies have shown that people in a state of flow have higher levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that supports feelings of motivation, pleasure, and reward. This may explain why they might not notice they are hungry or tired.

Flow is Found in the Now

Through my own writing and the writing experiences of the authors I coach, I've learned that flow isn’t some elusive state we need to chase.

Flow happens when we come into the present moment.

We can access flow whenever we’re not caught up in our busy minds, thinking about the past or worrying about the future. 

Being in flow feels like a dimension of “no time” because it happens in the eternal now. 

Flow makes effort feel effortless.

Flow invites synchronicity, too, magically lining things up in our favor.

Most of us likely have experienced a flow state when doing something we enjoy. When our minds are focused on one enjoyable activity, our train of thought slows down, and we merge with the moment at hand.

Top athletes, artists, and creatives utilize flow states to achieve their visions and goals. Records are broken, masterpieces come to life, and long-awaited dreams are manifested. 

When we are in flow, we feel content, creative, and connected to something larger than ourselves. 

Flow states can also bring feelings of ecstasy, joy, and bliss, of feeling attuned to universal or Source energy. This elevated experience of flow can make our writing feel as if we are downloading the inherent creative expression of life itself.

Many authors I've coached who don’t consider themselves "good" writers have experienced this joyful flow state while writing their books.

Writing a book requires great focus and commitment and will likely bring challenges. Naturally, you need your mind and thoughts to write a book, but when you're stuck second-guessing or overthinking, you block yourself from the magic of flow.

To experience flow as you write, you must learn how to harmonize your energy with the universal energy around you. You can begin by slowing down your busy mind and tuning into the present moment, which is why mindfulness, meditation, and conscious breathing are all powerful tools for accessing flow.

Try This The Next Time You Write

Take one minute to slow down before you begin to write. 

✓ Close your eyes. 

✓ Feel your feet on the floor.

✓ Slow your breathing.

✓ Let your shoulders soften.

✓ Focus on your inhale and exhale. 

✓ Notice what wants to emerge rather than what you think you should write.

Then begin.

Go Slow to Find Flow

In flow, you'll discover your intuitive guidance and access the creative ideas and brilliant insights that make your writing fresh and exciting.

If you need support in slowing down and tuning in, take the next step with our free Limitless Creative Flow guided meditation.

And remember, flow isn't a reward reserved for gifted writers. It's a state that's available whenever you're willing to slow down, return to the present moment, and trust the wisdom within.