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How to write a book with a book coach

How to Write a Book with a Book Coach: Why Accountability Matters

How to write a book: It’s one of the most frequently searched questions by aspiring authors.

But knowing how to do it isn’t the same as actually doing it. If you’re a coach, entrepreneur, or speaker who wants to write a book to share your message or build your brand, you already know it’s more than just putting words on a page. It’s a commitment to the process and often, it’s hard to stick to that process alone.

That’s where book coaching comes in.

What Is a Book Coach?

A book coach is a professional who supports you through the entire writing journey, from your first idea to your final manuscript. Think of us as a mix between a mentor, editor, strategist, and accountability partner. We guide your structure, help refine your message, and ensure that you don’t lose momentum when life gets busy or your confidence wavers.

This isn’t about magic or waiting for inspiration to strike. Writing a book is work, but it’s so much more achievable when you have someone walking the road with you.

Why I Believe in Book Coaching

I’ve written and self-published eight books and several short stories, and I’ve coached others through the same process. So yes, I know how to write a book, but here’s something you might not expect: Even as a book coach, I still have an accountability coach myself.

Why? Because every time I work with an author, I get personally invested. I connect with the vision, the mission, and the heart behind their story. It speaks to my soul. But that emotional connection also presents a temptation… to pour so much into others that I stop writing for myself.

To keep it real, I need the same structure and accountability I offer my clients. That’s why I walk the talk and stay plugged into my own creative process, with someone who holds me to the goals I’ve set.

When Support Is Not Enough

What I learned early on is that not everyone in your life will understand the writing journey. I had people around me who cared deeply about me, but they had never written a book. They couldn’t guide me through the unique mental, emotional and strategic steps involved in producing a book that positions you as a thought leader.

And I came to realise something even more important: writing the book is only part of the journey. The real challenge is what happens after you hit publish. Visibility. Positioning. Choosing your publishing path. Making the book work for your brand and business. Those were lessons I had to learn the hard way and now I teach them to the authors I coach.

We also tend to overestimate what we can do in the short term, especially when we’re excited. But we underestimate what we can achieve in the long term and that’s where book coaching makes all the difference. It’s about building sustainable progress, not chasing creative sprints that lead nowhere.

Why Accountability Is a Game-Changer

Accountability is the bridge between a dream and a finished manuscript. Most aspiring authors don’t fall short because of lack of talent. They fall short because of inconsistency.

A 2015 study in the Journal of Behavioral Medicine found that new gym-goers needed to exercise four times a week for six weeks to form a habit. Writing is no different. It’s a workout for your brain and your soul. It’s uncomfortable at first, and progress may feel slow, but the longer you wait to start, the harder it is to build momentum.

The authors in my book coaching programme who thrive are the ones who build a rhythm early and stick to it, even when life gets busy or motivation dips.

What It’s Like to Work with a Book Coach

Let me be clear: book coaching is not ghostwriting. You are the author. We’re here to help you become a finisher. In my 6–8 month coaching programme, you’ll get:

  • Monthly accountability check-ins

  • Monthly write-ins where we write together in a supportive, focused environment

  • Feedback on structure, tone, and flow

  • Guidance for overcoming mindset blocks

  • Strategic planning for what comes after the book is written

The structure keeps you moving forward. The feedback makes your book stronger. The partnership gives you the emotional and mental support you need to keep going.

The Trap of “When Things Slow Down”

One of the biggest myths about how to write a book is that you’ll “get to it” when things slow down. But life doesn’t work like that. Business picks up. Family responsibilities grow. Energy fades.

Sure, when things are quiet, writing feels easier. But legacy work isn’t about convenience. It’s about commitment. If you only write when it’s easy, your book will remain a dream.

My clients often arrive at meetings tired, distracted, or even discouraged, but they come anyway. They don’t wait for the perfect time. And because when they keep showing up, they finish. Sometimes it takes longer than they anticipated, but many legacy goals are like that.

So, How Do You Write a Book?

Here’s what I’ve learned after writing eight books and coaching many more authors:

You write a book by:

  • Getting clear on your message and your ideal reader

  • Building a consistent writing routine

  • Welcoming feedback, even when it’s uncomfortable

  • Planning for what happens after the writing is done.

  • Committing to the long haul, not the quick win.

Most importantly, you don’t do it alone. A book coach helps you navigate the highs and lows and stay focused on the bigger vision.

Final Thoughts

How to write a book is not just about what you do. It’s about how consistently you show up. Writing a book stretches you. It challenges your identity. But it also opens doors, strengthens your brand and leaves a lasting impact.

If you’ve been dreaming of writing your book but keep stopping and starting, I invite you to join a process that keeps you moving. Book coaching is not about perfection. It’s about progress, partnership, and purpose.

Ready to Write Your Book with Confidence?

We only take 4 coaching clients at a time to ensure personal, focused support.
[Book a Free Discovery Call]
Let’s talk about your goals and whether this programme is the right fit for your vision.
Your book is part of your legacy. Let’s write it… together.

Kim Vermaak Author Speaker and Publisher

Kim Vermaak is an author, book coach, and publishing strategist who helps thought leaders turn their expertise into powerful books that build their legacy. As the host of the Write Learn and Earn Show and a dynamic speaker, she empowers coaches, speakers, and leaders to overcome imposter syndrome, master personal branding, and share their stories with confidence.

With over 20 years of experience in marketing and publishing, Kim delivers engaging keynotes and workshops on storytelling, book marketing and the mindset shifts needed for success. She is passionate about mental health, helping high-achievers navigate self-doubt, and unlocking their true potential through writing and public speaking.

Book your free 30 minute discovery call. DM me for details https://calendly.com/kimvermaak/30min

Copyright Kim Vermaak 2025

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Hello, I am Kim Vermaak

I spent most of my adult life helping other companies build their dream and their brands.

After I turned 40, I wondered if there was more to life than taking care of children and slaving away to earn a living.

I wanted to create a legacy for my children and the next generation. I found that through my books I could celebrate who I am as well as teach others to earn a living through their writing.

Being an author is not a hobby. It is a business, and it is my passion to teach authors how to thrive in that business. I look forward to seeing your book business grow.

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Kim

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BookSirens is a legitimate resource for authors and readers alike that can help readers find books they'll love, while matching authors with prospective reviewers so they can get more honest reviews.

What Kim was able to offer me in terms of insight, price with her experience in understanding the needs of authors was outstanding. Kim is not only creative, but she takes on your views and comments willingly and it’s professional open process.
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