For as long as I can remember, people have told me they’ve always wanted to write a book. Sometimes it’s a novel or a collection of poems. Other times, it’s a leadership book, a memoir, or simply a reflection on lessons learned. But one theme is always the same: someday.
For many executives, that “someday” often arrives around the time they begin thinking about what comes next or legacy after a successful career. Writing becomes a means to reflect, to make sense of experiences, and to leave a lasting legacy behind.
As someone who has authored or co-authored nearly 70 books and coached more than 130 others through the process, I’ve seen how powerful it can be to move that dream from intention to action. And the good news? You don’t need to be a professional writer to begin.
Why the Urge to Write Appears When It Does
I think of writing as a knock on the side of your head. A moment when something inside says, “You have something to say here.” That’s often what prompts people to finally pick up the pen (or open the laptop).
For many of my clients, business and nonprofit leaders alike, the impulse to write emerges during transition. It’s about legacy and clarity. There aren’t many ways to leave a piece of yourself that endures beyond your time in the office, but a book, an essay, or even a set of written reflections can do exactly that.
Start Writing By Starting Small
Here’s the truth: every book begins the same way, by writing something down. Not everything, not even something perfect, just something.
Find a way to start small. Write for five minutes a day. Capture one story, one idea, or one piece of advice you’ve given dozens of times but never written down. Don’t worry about whether it’s “good.” Early drafts aren’t meant to impress. They’re meant to exist.
And stay in what I call your “writer brain,” not your “editor brain.” The creative side of you wants to explore; the editor wants to correct. There’s time for both, but not at once. Let your thoughts flow freely first. You can polish later.
What Writing Really Offers
Writing is both expression and exploration. It’s not about just publishing a book but, rather, processing what you’ve lived, what you’ve learned, and what you hope others might take away.
I’ve helped authors capture leadership principles, personal lessons, and stories that changed how they see themselves. Many begin by saying they want to write a book for others, but almost always, they discover they’re writing it for themselves. The process brings perspective. It clarifies what really matters.
A Simple Encouragement
If you’ve always dreamed of writing, don’t wait for the perfect moment. It doesn’t exist. Write when you have five minutes, when inspiration hits, or even when it doesn’t.
Your story, your insights, and your impact deserve to be on the page. Start capturing them today. The act of writing will change you, and what you create may also outlast you.
If you find yourself thinking about what’s next, how to channel your experience, capture your legacy, or design an encore chapter with meaning, Navigate Forward can help. Our team specializes in guiding executives through transition, helping you define purpose beyond your current role and create impact that lasts. Whether that means writing your story, joining a board, or charting a new course, we’ll help you make your next chapter your best yet. Contact us today to learn more.
