There are many reasons why people start blogs but have you considered starting one before writing your book. An obvious reason for doing this is to create a platform to showcase your writing style and skills. The internet is a blessing to any person aspiring to be an author or who is already one. A blog is a great way to present your work. You also get to engage with others and learn through the process.

As you start the blog, consider writing on topics that relate to the content of your book. For instance, if you are composing a collection of poems, create a blog on poetry. This way, you will attract readers who might be interested in your book once it is out. Grow your blog if you can so as to create an already available market. This way you will work on two related projects alongside each other that will benefit you in the end.

Note your followers’ comments too. As a writer, I know how hard it is to listen to criticism. Of course, there are readers who always land on your blog to spew out all manner of incorrect judgments. You can totally ignore those kinds of comments. However, there are readers who really offer constructive insight that may help you look at your writing from a different angle and make necessary adjustments.

It is important still to consider that your followers are not the final decision makers on the content of your upcoming book. You have the last say. It is your book and it should reflect what you want to convey. Creating a balance between listening and incorporating your readers’ views while staying true to your message and style is really important. Give the followers a say but do not let them dictate every single idea.

It sounds like a lot of work. I understand. Writing can be one of the most tedious jobs, even on your most creative of days. Worse still, is when writer’s block kicks in. I have learned a rule that is helping me not only in my work as a writer but also in life. The rule is just to do it. Creating a sense of urgency and working on tasks as they arise is one easy way that will reduce the stress of procrastination. If you have decided to start a blog, just do it. Actually, do it now. The more you postponem the more difficult it becomes to finally get around and do what you had planned to do.

As the day nears for your book’s release, let your followers know. Give them a hint of what the book is about and create excitement around it. Be careful still not to reveal too much or to continuously bombard readers with constant posts about the book. Mention it as often as you can but do not neglect other meaningful blog posts too.

Whatever you decide to do, choose to love every step of the journey.