How to write a book in 30 days?

During the pandemic, I participated in the 30 Days Writing Challenge initiated by James Altucher, a trader, investor, writer, podcast host and entrepreneur.

I did research on Third Culture Kids (TCK) when I had an identity crisis. So when James mentioned this writing challenge, I collected my notes and turned them into a novella.

What have I learned from this month-long writing challenge?

① First of all, you need a deadline. Otherwise, you will always find an excuse to procrastinate and never going to complete your wish to write a book.

I started my writing journey in Chinese when I was a kid. Since I migrated and lived in English-speaking countries, I have always felt the urge to write a novel in English but have never done it. James's call to action provided with me strong motivation.

② Actions reveal who you really are.

My ultimate goal is to become a prolific bilingual writer. Therefore, I HAVE to treat myself as a writer. I always remember my identity by doing what a writer is supposed to do --- WRITE.

③ Control what you can control and focus on what you can change within yourself or your environment.

I approached many publishers while writing my first English novel. However, I got rejected by traditional publishers. So I decided to self-publish my book on Amazon to skip the line of gatekeeps. I know my first novel probably sucks, but it's good to familiarise myself with the process of finishing writing a book and self-publishing.

④ Writing is a healing process.

By revisiting those haunting memories that still evoke my negative emotions, I guided my brain to face unresolved threats that generated stress and chronic pains in my subconscious.

As Jordan B. Peterson mentioned in his book Beyond Order, Rule 9: If old memories still upset you, write them down carefully and completely. I created a character who went through similar experiences as I did and tried to find a solution from the third person's perspective to help her get through life. So I released my pain and cured my wound.

⑤ Best way to show respect to your favourite writers.

I chose June 8 to release my book because George Orwell published his best-seller novel Nineteen Eighty-Four on the same date. I mixed up each character's name with people who played an important role in my life and mentioned some of my favourite locations in the book (happy hunting, haha!)

Here is the novel I wrote: The Invisible Third Culture Adult. We all have stories to tell. I'm looking forward to listening to and reading your stories soon!