One of the most common questions I get is:
👉 “What percent of your clients DON’T finish writing their books?”
I’d love to say 100% of my clients cross the finish line, book in hand, but… I’m not a magician (though I wish I were!). That said, my clients certainly beat the odds!
Here’s a shocking stat: Only 3% of people who want to write a book actually finish their manuscript. And just 1% publish.
Ouch.
But my clients? 78% complete their manuscripts and publish their books. 🎉
I was feeling pretty good about that number… until a prospect threw me a curveball:
“Why don’t the others publish?”
Great question! And after some deep diving, I discovered five key reasons why some aspiring authors don’t finish their books.
1. They Skip the Writing Assignments
At the end of each coaching session, we agree on a writing goal that fits their schedule. Minimum requirement? Five hours of writing per week. Sounds doable, right?
But when life happens and they don’t follow through…they fall behind, get discouraged, and eventually give up.
2. They Think Paying for Coaching = Automatic Success
Newsflash: Writing a book is like a gym membership. You can’t just pay for it and expect results!
The magic isn’t in the payment. It’s in putting in the work. If you don’t write, the book doesn’t magically appear. (If only! 😆)
3. They Get SO Close… and Then Fear Takes Over
Some writers cruise through their drafts only to slam on the brakes just before the finish line.
Their inner critic kicks in with some real gems:
❌ “Who do you think you are, calling yourself an author?”
❌ “What if people hate your book?”
❌ “Are you even a decent writer?”
That inner voice? Lies. All lies. But if you don’t learn to manage it, it can stop you in your tracks.
4. Business Booms (or Busts)
Sometimes, an author’s business takes off so much they suddenly have zero time to write. Other times, their business struggles, making them question whether writing a book is worth the time and investment. Either way, the book gets pushed to the back burner.
5. Life Throws a Curveball
Health issues, loss of a loved one, or other major life events can derail even the most committed writer.
Take the example of Denise Gabel who tragically lost the love of her life, and writing took a backseat. But she came back and finished her book. 💜
How Do I Help My Clients Push Through These Obstacles?
Glad you asked! Here’s how I make sure my authors have every possible tool for success:
✅ “Sabbatical” Options – Need a break for personal reasons? I offer a pause in coaching so clients can step away and come back when they’re ready, just like Denise did.
✅ An Engaged & Supportive Author Community – Writing is lonely… unless you have a group of fellow authors cheering you on. Our community celebrates your wins and helps you push through self-doubt.
✅ A Proven Process with Just the Right Amount of Time – Too much time? You risk productive procrastination. Too little? You feel rushed. I help clients find the sweet spot to stay on track.
Want to be the writer who actually finishes and publishes? Maybe it’s time to invest in a book coach!