Why Personally Written How-To Books Matter
- Marya Patrice Sherron
- Mar 29
- 3 min read

Let's begin with a few necessary truths. You matter. Your voice matters. And your story matters.
Whether you are a coach, consultant, business owner, educator, or leader within your organization, your expertise is uniquely yours. No one—absolutely no one—possesses the knowledge, wisdom, and experience that you bring to the table. It is this very expertise that will elevate your book above the rest. Do not shy away from sharing the invaluable lessons you've learned along your journey. And, please, I urge you, please, resist the temptation to craft a flat, technical, or academic book that strips away the vigor and richness of the life experiences that have shaped your understanding. Your voice matters; let it resonate with authenticity and passion.
Authenticity and Unique Perspectives
No two leaders, business owners, or coaches have the same journey. A personally written how-to book brings a distinct voice, real-world experiences, and hard-earned wisdom that no generic manual or AI-generated content can replicate. Readers connect with stories and personal insights, making the guidance more relatable and actionable.
Authority and Thought Leadership
Writing a book on leadership, business, or coaching solidifies the author's expertise in their field. It positions them as thought leaders who have not only succeeded in their endeavors but are also willing to share their knowledge with others. A book becomes a powerful tool to build trust and credibility among clients, employees, and peers.
Impact and Influence
A well-crafted how-to book empowers others to navigate challenges and seize opportunities with greater confidence. By sharing practical strategies and lessons learned, authors contribute to the growth and success of their readers. Business owners can inspire entrepreneurs, coaches can refine methodologies, and leaders can mentor the next generation.
Legacy and Long-Term Value
Unlike digital content that can quickly become outdated or lost in the vast online space, a book is a lasting asset. It serves as a tangible representation of the author’s knowledge, offering continuous value for years to come. A personally written how-to book ensures that an individual's insights and methodologies live on, influencing and inspiring long after they’ve moved on to new ventures.
Business Growth and Opportunities
Publishing a book can open doors to new opportunities, including speaking engagements, consulting offers, and expanded business ventures. It serves as a high-value marketing tool that not only attracts clients but also deepens engagement with an existing audience. A book showcases expertise in a structured and impactful way, enhancing credibility and visibility.
Getting Started: Writing Your Own How-To Book
If you're a leader, business owner, or coach considering writing a how-to book, here are some key steps to begin:
Identify Your Niche and Audience: Determine who will benefit most from your insights and tailor your content accordingly.
Outline Key Lessons and Strategies: Structure your book with clear, actionable guidance.
Infuse Personal Stories and Case Studies: Make your book engaging by incorporating real-life examples and practical applications.
Prioritize Clarity and Simplicity: Ensure that your advice is easy to understand and implement.
Commit to the Process: Writing a book requires discipline, but the impact is worth the effort.
For leaders, business owners, and coaches, writing a how-to book is more than just a professional milestone—it’s an opportunity to share knowledge, build authority, and create lasting influence. By writing from personal experience, authors provide their readers with not just information but transformation. Now is the time to turn your expertise into a powerful resource that will shape industries, inspire change, and leave a legacy.
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