Hey Reader,

Let’s talk about something some of my writing colleagues find controversial: You can start making money from your book before it’s even published.

This is controversial for two reasons:

1. Some people believe you’re supposed to write for the love of it, not for money. And yes, passion matters. But you know what also matters? Being able to pay your bills while you pursue your creative dreams.
2. It can distract you from finishing the actual book. But with a coaching program like Write Your Friggin' Book Already, you can be kept on track.

I don't think talking about the business of writing and publishing taints the craft at all. I think they can go hand in hand, and I've seen my clients benefit greatly from publishing their books.

• According to Forbes, the average business owner with a published book sees a 37% increase in sales. WYFBA member Laura Eigel saw that when she published her book Values First.
• Whether it’s fiction or non-fiction, having a book builds credibility with employers and clients. WYFBA member Finn saw that when they used their book content to get a new job and start a side hustle.

But here’s what most people don’t know: You don’t have to wait for your book to be published to start seeing those benefits.

​I wrote a whole blog post about making money from your book while writing it, and I want to share the key strategies with you.

3 Ways to Monetize Your Book Content Before Publication

1. Workshops, Courses, and Coaching

This is exactly what I’ve done with the offerings at SchoolForWriters.com, including my Write Your Friggin' Book Already® program. I took my book-writing process and turned it into a program that helps other people. You can do the same with your expertise.

Examples:

• Host workshops on your book’s topic
• Create a course around your framework
• Offer one-on-one coaching in your area of expertise Build a membership community around your content

2. Pre-sell Your Book

You can generate income before your manuscript is complete through:

• Kickstarter campaigns with rewards and bonuses
• Pre-order pages on your website with early bird discounts
• Book proposals to publishers (for non-fiction)
• Patreon or subscription model for chapter releases

3. Sponsorships and Brand Partnerships

This one’s underused but can be super lucrative:

• Partner with brands that align with your book’s themes
• Offer advertising space in your newsletter or on your website
• Collaborate with subscription boxes in your genre
• Write sponsored content for relevant companies

Real Examples from WYFBA Members

Laura used her book content to launch a podcast, build group coaching programs, and secure corporate consulting work - all while still writing.

Mars leveraged the community and coaching in WYFBA to transition from a nonprofit job to full-time creative work, making money as an erotica writer and creative freelancer.

Lauren (a different Lauren!) turned their company from a $10,000/year side hustle to an $11,000/month consultancy, then used that success to land a six-figure job.

The common thread? They didn’t wait until their books were “done” to start building businesses around their expertise.

Why This Matters for Your Writing Journey

When you can make money from your book content, several things happen:

• You take your book more seriously (because it’s generating income)
• You build an audience before publication (making marketing easier)
• You test your ideas with real people (making your book better)
• You reduce financial pressure (making the writing process more enjoyable)

This isn’t about selling out your art. It’s about creating sustainable conditions for your creativity to thrive.

In WYFBA, we don’t just help you write your book – we help you think strategically about how that book fits into your larger goals, whether that’s building a business, advancing your career, or creating multiple income streams.

​Read the full blog post here for more detailed strategies and examples.​

Ready to start thinking strategically about your book? WYFBA doors close August 22nd (about 2.5 weeks left).

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Questions about monetizing your book or whether WYFBA is right for your goals? Reply to this email - I love talking about the business side of writing.

Because the world needs your story now more than ever.™

Lauren

P.S. Those subsidized spots (20% off with code BENEFACTOR) are still available if the financial investment has been a concern. The best investment is the one that pays for itself. Grab a spot today.

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