The Crazy Way I Got a Fitness Book Deal [Video]

book dealEver wanted to write a book? Or wondered how to get a book deal?

The other day I did a Facebook Live stream about how my own book deal came about, along with my thoughts about the process.

It’s below, raw, casual, and live as can be!

My opportunity to write an Idiot’s Guide book came about organically – I really didn’t seek it out. Basically, I saw an opportunity that seemed like a no-brainer, and I went for it.

Book Deals are Fun, But Don’t Expect $$$

In the live stream, I tried to answer some questions people have asked me over the years … like the random guy who sent me a series of interrogating private messages trying to get me to tell him how much I got paid.

Or, the secret you need to know to get started writing for major newsstand publications. Once I learned this secret, I had two accepted queries within two weeks.

And, most importantly, will you really lose 20 pounds in 2 months if you follow the plan I outline in the book?

What I Would Do Different Next Time

There was little incentive for me to market this book very hard because I had already gotten paid for it, which was a good thing/bad thing, given the state of publishing these days.

Plus, I didn’t even know HOW to market it, really.

Now, I definitely would be more proactive about marketing, although I’m still pretty clueless about all that – but now I have a better idea of what to do and where to go. I’d definitely get over myself and let the world know about the book’s benefits.

And if I were to do it again, I’d likely pursue another book contract immediately following the publication of the first book. Although at the time I wrote the Idiot’s Guide, I was really busy with personal training and the gym, so I didn’t have the time for it. Or the support.

Because here’s the thing with writing: It’s a solitary pursuit. I know for me, personally, I end up in my head too much if all I do is write. And I’m old enough and wise enough to know now that’s not always the healthiest way for me to spend my days.

In fact, it’s one of the reasons I am so passionate about fitness and helping others love it too: It clears my head.

I’m smarter now about creating that solitary–social balance that many of us struggle with. Plus, being around other people opens your mind to new ideas – and improves the writing.

Would I write another book? Heck yes! How about you? Do you have a book in you, just waiting to be unleashed?

Wendy Watkins

About Wendy Watkins

Wendy Watkins is a Bangor-based personal trainer, fitness coach, studio owner, and writer/editor. She is the author of The Complete Idiots Guide to Losing 20 Pounds in 2 Months. Visit her website at thrivebangor.com.