After I wrote my book Sutter’s Sodas Satisfy:  A Memoir of 90 Years of Sutter Drug Co., I was amazed  that so many friends and acquaintances wanted to know how I did it. Turns out, they have a book inside them that’s crying to get out.

Michelle Ashby, CEO at Tipping Point Communications, invited me to talk to her and a few co-workers about how to make their book writing dream come true. It’s not easy, especially if you have a job, family, and a million other responsibilities. But of course, you can do it with discipline and determination. Here are five tips I shared with them:

1. Spend 15 minutes a day doing something related to your book: Do a Google search, jot down notes, etc. Do this instead of watching TV or reading Facebook. Make notes while you eat lunch, instead of checking your email. Think about your book every day in the shower, then as soon as you dry off, write down ideas on a notepad you keep in your bathroom.

2. Put your butt in the seat and write. Even if it’s no good, write something. Don’t keep going back and revising – that’s another form of procrastination. Keep moving forward.

3. Find a friend/spouse/writing partner who will give you honest critiques. Share chapters with them as appropriate to get feedback. Form a writing group to share your writings and get opinions. You don’t have to make changes if you don’t agree with what they tell you, of course.

4. Set up deadlines to keep you motivated. Keep track on an Excel spreadsheet or other organizational device. You can use the same spreadsheet as a “to do” list for things such as listing research you need to do, etc.

5. Take a class at Writers and Books. Attend readings and talks by authors, which can both inspire you and give you helpful ideas. Sign up for e-blasts from writers and people who work with writers. WritersDigest.com is a great resource. I like BuildBookBuzz.com and ReachMoreReaders.com for marketing tips.

Michelle and the group seemed to find beneficial that hour we spent together. Here’s an endorsement she wrote:

“In a recent employee survey, many on our team listed writing a book as a personal goal. When we later asked how many would actually get around to writing the book, no one thought they could find the time. Jane held a Lunch & Learn for Tipping Point staff and gave us simple, actionable tips for getting started, organizing our thoughts and  21st Century approaches to being published. Jane is a pleasant, warm and inclusive presenter who inspired many of us to give it a try.”