One Success Leads to Another

I’ve got a question,” the man said as I sat on a panel of writers, editors and publishers at last week’s meeting of the International Coaches Federation of Orange County.

"Can you speak about the relationship between your experience as an athlete and writing books?"

“What a great question!” I answered. In the 1980s I was a pioneer in the sport of women’s bodybuilding. I was the first California Bodybuilding Champion, runner-up in the first American Championships, and editor for Muscle & Fitness and Shape magazines. Yet no one ever asked me about the relationship between sports and writing.

Below are some thoughts that might inspire you to look at your past successes and how they relate to writing a book.

What are you passionate about?

As an athlete, I loved to workout in the gym. I spent 2-4 hours daily, 6 days a week pumping iron until my body looked like a bronze sculpture. Later as a writer, I was passionate about my mentors, a group of elders who call themselves the Midwives of Mankind. I wanted to share their love and wisdom with women throughout the world. You need passion to start your book and passion to sustain you during the long weeks and months ahead. What fills your heart? What makes it beat faster? This is the subject of your book!

What does your vision look like?

For years I held a vision of the body I wanted to shape through exercise and diet. I never abandoned my vision even when I was told that my goal was unattainable. In my eyes, I already possessed the championship physique I later created. As a writer, I meditated on the spirit of my book long before I put pen to paper. I envisioned the cover, content, and size before I completed a first draft. Spend time on your vision. What kind of book do you see? How far will your book travel? Who will be inspired or excited by your work?

What steps will help achieve what you want?

I performed thousands of sit-ups and squats in the gym. I feasted on cans of tuna and egg whites for weeks. Consistent discipline over time was the key to success in bodybuilding. While writing books, I draw on my discipline to focus on one page or chapter at a time. By completing a page a day, you will write an entire book in 4-6 months. What steps can you take today that will move you closer to your goal?

How will your achievement make a difference in your life?

Bodybuilding opened the door to opportunities, such as interviews on Good Morning, America, articles in Sports Illustrated, writing assignments and film cameos. My success inspired women to stretch themselves beyond their physical limits. Writing books has led to keynote speeches at women’s conferences, conducting seminars, and attracting private clients. My books have enriched the lives of people I’ve never met. How will your book make a difference in your life and the lives of others?

One success leads to another. Ask yourself: What have I created or achieved that compares to writing a book? Think about your athletic, academic, or creative successes. They just might hold the key to completing your book project.

© 2002 Dr. Claudia Rose

Dr. Claudia Rose is a Certified Holistic Counselor with a doctorate in psychology. She is the author of three books, and the founder of the Fairy Godmother Guild. For information about her books, upcoming classes, or private readings call (888) 522-4628; e-mail: DrRose@daughterofpeace.com.
Visit: www.daughterofpeace.com and www.fairygodmotherguild.com.

Sept/Oct 2002

One Success Leads to Another

by Dr. Claudia Rose