You’ve probably heard that writing a book can help your business, but that can raise so many questions. How exactly does a book grow my business? Where would I fit in the time to write one? What is my best option for publishing?

Come and see Lindsay Sealey speak in person on March 6, when she will be sharing true tales and lessons learned from her author journey. Lindsay’s presentation is just one part of our upcoming Book Publishing Boot Camp, where you’ll learn exactly what it takes to plan, write, publish and market a nonfiction book that can boost your business, showcase your expertise, and build your personal or professional brand. See the full program here.

What is your book called? Do you have more than one?

My book is called Growing Strong Girls: Practical Tools to Cultivate Connection in the Preteen Years. This is my first hybrid publication as I have also self-published.

Why did you decide to write a book?

I decided to write this book because I felt I had so much experience with young girls who were struggling with themselves—in terms of self-esteem, confidence, and simply feeling good about themselves, and I knew I could offer struggling parents ideas and practical tools to support their daughters. I also strongly believed I could offer not only help, but hope.

You are a busy entrepreneur!  How did you fit in the time for writing a book?

I didn’t find the time; I made the time. I decided before I started writing that I knew myself well enough to know what would work for me in terms of a writing rhythm. I do not do well under time pressure so, for me, I committed to writing for 1-2 hours each day before work so that I never felt overwhelmed and I never had to write under duress. For the most part I stuck to daily writing with the exception of a few weekends closer to the completion of my book.

What was your business model before the book?  Has the book changed this?  If so, how?

My business model focuses on diversity, meaning I choose to be a one-on-one educational and personal growth specialist with girls, a consultant for parents, and a speaker at schools and community events. My business model expanded with my book because I could add author, guest blogger, and contributor to the Huffington Post and Red Tricycle and I am now speaking on the ideas in my book. Now I am even more diversified.

How has the book leveraged you and/or your business to greater success and increased its reputation?

At first I thought my book would leverage my business—as in if I have a book, I will be more known and reputable and thus, successful. I was wrong. When I completed my book, I felt different. I felt more knowledgeable, more competent, and more confident and strong. I noticed my language changed, my posture improved, and I had much more self-belief. Since I changed, as a person, my business changed and grew exponentially. Having a published book is significant and I am sure this accomplishment makes people view me as an expert, but it began with my view of myself, as someone who believes in my work with girls and the difference I am making. The success of my business followed.

What advice would you give to a business owner or professional who is sitting on the fence about writing a book?

I’d say do it now and don’t wait because you will regret not doing it. There’s never a good time to take a risk like this or begin a project that takes time and energy. You may have doubts and fears, like I did. Yet, if you shift to focusing on trust—trusting yourself that you have something important to say and trusting in the process of writing your book—all the pieces will come into place and you won’t have any regrets.