Podcast Summary: The Psychology of Your 20s – Episode 291: "How I Wrote a Book and How You Can Too"

Release Date: April 29, 2025 | Host: Jemma Sbeg | Produced by iHeartPodcasts

Introduction

In Episode 291 of "The Psychology of Your 20s," host Jemma Sbeg delves into a departure from the show's usual focus on psychological concepts, instead exploring the intricate process of writing a book. Titled "How I Wrote a Book and How You Can Too," this episode serves as a comprehensive guide for aspiring authors navigating the daunting journey of authorship. Through her personal experiences and practical advice, Jemma offers listeners valuable insights into transforming creative ideas into published works.

The Author's Journey to Writing a Book

Jemma begins by sharing her motivation behind writing her book, "Person in Progress." She candidly discusses the initial enthusiasm of drafting her first manuscript, which she completed in approximately four to six months. However, she quickly identifies the hidden complexities that often accompany the book-writing process—elements seldom addressed when individuals embark on the journey to authorship.

“At first draft, I was really, really happy with. But from there, there were so many extra hidden steps that no one really talks about,” Jemma explains (01:10).

Her initial concept centered around publishing her personal journal entries, titled "20 Something Diaries." Despite recognizing the appeal, she acknowledges that the vulnerability inherent in sharing intimate thoughts publicly posed significant challenges, ultimately leading her to abandon this idea.

Choosing the Right Idea

Transitioning from her initial concept, Jemma outlines the importance of selecting a book idea that resonates deeply with the author. She emphasizes that the desire to write should stem from an intrinsic need to share a unique perspective or unexplored narrative.

“One of the questions I would ask myself, and that you can ask yourself, is: What is the topic or idea that you already could talk about all day? What is the thing that you think about the most?” Jemma advises (04:23).

She draws inspiration from Elizabeth Gilbert's analogy, highlighting that ideas exist independently until someone claims them by giving them form. This perspective underscores the necessity of genuine commitment to the chosen topic, thereby ensuring that the book emerges organically from the author's passion rather than external expectations.

Jemma recounts her realization that her scripted podcast episodes were laying the groundwork for her book. The extensive writing involved in crafting these scripts—ranging from 4,000 to 13,000 words each—made her recognize that she was already on the path to producing a book, albeit in a different format.

Pitching the Book to Publishers

Understanding the competitive nature of the publishing industry, Jemma discusses the dual pathways authors can take: either completing the manuscript before seeking a publisher or pitching the idea beforehand. She clarifies the intricacies involved in pitching a book, detailing the essential components of a successful proposal.

A notable quote from Jemma at 12:06: “Who is the audience going to be? What is the plot line going to be? Who are the characters?”

She outlines the pitch structure, which includes an "About Me" section that highlights the author's credibility, a detailed description of the book's content, and a chapter or story outline to showcase the book's potential. Jemma emphasizes the importance of demonstrating that the author is capable of delivering a compelling narrative aligned with market trends.

Through her own experience, facilitated by an agent named Dan from UTA, Jemma illustrates the process of taking a book to market. She highlights the significance of networking and leveraging existing relationships to navigate the publishing landscape successfully. Additionally, she touches upon the alternative route of self-publishing, sharing a success story of an anonymous author who initially marketed locally before securing a full-time publisher due to overwhelming demand.

Writing Process and Tips

Jemma transitions into her core message: offering five actionable tips for aspiring authors. These tips are designed to streamline the writing process, maintain motivation, and ensure the creation of a meaningful manuscript.

Tip 1: Think Before You Write

Before embarking on the writing journey, Jemma advises authors to have a foundational idea of their book's direction without overcomplicating the plot. This balance helps authors navigate the inevitable challenges of writing, such as writer's block or structural dilemmas.

“At some point, that book is going to stop writing itself and you are going to have to push hard,” she notes (22:09).

Jemma shares her strategy of outlining chapters in advance, enabling her to remain focused and committed to the writing process despite the obstacles that arise.

Tip 2: Create and Commit to a Routine

Establishing a writing routine is paramount to maintaining productivity and meeting deadlines. Jemma underscores the necessity of dedicating specific times and days exclusively to writing, which fosters discipline and separates writing from other daily activities.

“I created a schedule where Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays were my writing days,” Jemma explains (25:11).

She also mentions the varied approaches of other successful authors, such as Haruki Murakami, who combines writing with physical activities like running to enforce discipline through positive reinforcement.

Tip 3: Embrace Type 2 Fun

Jemma introduces the concept of "Type 2 Fun," which refers to activities that may not be enjoyable in the moment but are rewarding in hindsight. Writing a book epitomizes this category, as it demands significant effort and perseverance despite its challenges.

“Writing a book is hard. If it wasn't hard, everyone would be doing it,” she states (28:16).

She encourages authors to find joy in the process and recognize the long-term fulfillment that comes from completing such a monumental task.

Tip 4: Kill Your Darlings

Perhaps the most challenging tip, Jemma advises authors to be willing to discard parts of their manuscript that do not serve the overall narrative, even if they are personally attached to them. This practice ensures that the final work remains cohesive and impactful.

“I know that was a hard one. But sometimes you have to kill your darlings,” Jemma acknowledges (33:12).

She recounts her own experience of removing a chapter that, despite significant effort, did not contribute effectively to her book's intended message.

Tip 5: Write for Yourself First

Jemma emphasizes the importance of authentic self-expression over catering to perceived audience expectations. Writing from one's genuine voice ensures that the work remains true to the author's intentions and fosters a more heartfelt connection with readers.

“Write this book for yourself first, not for anybody else,” she advises (35:10).

She warns against the pitfalls of allowing self-doubt and the desire for external validation to compromise the authenticity of the work.

Listener Q&A: Addressing Common Writing Challenges

In the latter part of the episode, Jemma engages with listener-submitted questions, providing tailored advice based on her experiences and the principles discussed earlier.

Question 1: How Do You Know Where to Start?

Jemma suggests that authors begin with the section or chapter they feel most passionate about, rather than adhering strictly to a linear progression. This approach can ignite enthusiasm and provide momentum to carry the project forward.

“Start where you feel most called to begin and most passionate to write about,” she responds (41:20).

She shares her method of selecting chapters from her book "Person in Progress" based on her immediate interests, which allowed her to maintain engagement throughout the writing process.

Question 2: How Do You Finish a Draft When You Keep Rewriting the First Three Chapters?

To overcome perfectionism and the temptation to endlessly revise initial chapters, Jemma advises authors to set aside these sections temporarily. By focusing on advancing the manuscript beyond the problematic areas, authors can sustain their progress and reduce the likelihood of stagnation.

“Put those three chapters aside, put them in one document, and start chapter four in a new document,” Jemma recommends (43:14).

Additionally, she suggests timed writing exercises to foster creativity without the pressure of perfection, allowing ideas to flow more freely.

Question 3: I've Always Wanted to Write, But I Feel Like No One Cares About What I Have to Say.

Addressing fears of irrelevance and imposter syndrome, Jemma encourages authors to question why they believe no one would care about their work. She posits that self-doubt is often a protective mechanism designed to prevent potential disappointment, yet it simultaneously hinders creative expression.

“Why not you?” Jemma challenges (45:54).

She emphasizes that every established author faced similar fears and that perseverance can lead to unexpected resonance with readers.

Question 4: How Do You Go About Getting a Publisher/Agent? What's the Process Like and What Are the Chances of Being Rejected?

Jemma candidly discusses the high likelihood of rejection in the publishing industry but frames it as a pathway to improvement and redirection. She insists that rejection does not equate to failure but rather indicates areas for refinement or different avenues to explore.

“The chances of being rejected are quite high. However, rejection is a doorway,” she states (47:09).

Her advice includes attending industry events, cold emailing, seeking feedback from established authors, and considering diversified publishing options like self-publishing and submissions to magazines or literary journals.

Conclusion

As the episode draws to a close, Jemma reinforces the episode's core messages: the importance of authentic motivation, disciplined routine, and resilience in the face of setbacks. She encourages aspiring authors to embrace the challenges of writing as integral to personal and creative growth.

“Write the book in your style, even if you think they might not like it,” Jemma concludes (36:28), emphasizing that the act of writing is a fulfilling endeavor regardless of external validation.

Listeners are invited to engage further by sharing their own experiences and questions on social media and are encouraged to support Jemma's work by purchasing her book, "Person in Progress."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• On Hidden Steps in Writing:

  “At first draft, I was really, really happy with. But from there, there were so many extra hidden steps that no one really talks about.” – Casey (01:10)

• On Choosing the Right Idea:

  “What is the topic or idea that you already could talk about all day? What is the thing that you think about the most?” – Casey (04:23)

• On Pitching the Book:

  “Who is the audience going to be? What is the plot line going to be? Who are the characters?” – Casey (12:06)

• On Writing Discipline:

  “Start where you feel most called to begin and most passionate to write about.” – Casey (41:20)

• On Overcoming Perfectionism:

  “Put those three chapters aside, put them in one document, and start chapter four in a new document.” – Casey (43:14)

• On Self-Doubt:

  “Why not you?” – Casey (45:54)

• On Rejection:

  “The chances of being rejected are quite high. However, rejection is a doorway.” – Casey (47:09)

• On Authentic Writing:

  “Write this book for yourself first, not for anybody else.” – Casey (35:10)

Final Thoughts

Episode 291 of "The Psychology of Your 20s" serves as a beacon for young adults contemplating the arduous yet rewarding path of writing a book. Through her transparent narrative and strategic advice, Jemma Sbeg demystifies the authorship process, making it accessible and attainable. Whether you're an aspiring writer or simply curious about the creative process, this episode offers invaluable lessons on passion, perseverance, and personal authenticity in the pursuit of literary creation.