Why Writing a Business Book Is Identity Work - And How Journalling Helps

Writing a Business Book Is Identity Work

Writing a business book isn’t just another form of content - it’s a turning point in your identity.

Yes, you’ll likely repurpose some of it later. Yes, it may shape your future blogs, talks or offers. But writing a book that genuinely reflects your expertise, values and voice? That’s identity work. When business owners decide to write a book that matters - one that offers real transformation, guidance or provocation - they’re not just sharing what they know. They’re stepping into who they are becoming.

And that’s not something you can shortcut.

You can’t hack your way to thought leadership. You can’t use a generic template to create a book that earns trust. You can’t outsource your way into real clarity about your message, audience or impact.

If your book doesn’t change you, it won’t change your reader either.

That’s why the process of writing a business book - when done well - is as strategic as it is personal. You’re not just organising your ideas. You’re refining your beliefs. You’re choosing what matters. You’re declaring your stance.

This is the work I do with my book coaching clients. They’re not looking for quick wins or off-the-shelf structures. They’re writing books that position them as leaders in their field - and they know it’s going to take focus, honesty and time.

Which is also why I encourage every one of them to build a daily journalling practice.

Because journalling - far from being a soft or fluffy past time - is a powerful tool that's available to business owners writing a book.

Why journalling matters when you’re writing a book

Journalling gives you something precious: space to think. It allows your voice to emerge without pressure. It helps you notice what’s circling in your mind. And, perhaps most importantly, it keeps you connected to your why when the structure gets tricky or imposter syndrome creeps in. When you are clear about who you are and what makes you tick, all writing becomes easier.

Five quiet minutes a day - scribbled before breakfast, or typed out after a walk - can bring the kind of clarity no framework ever could. Like with anything, developing a daily practice will lead to huge leaps forward in ability, expertise and belief.

If you’re writing a book to grow your business - especially one that positions you as a thought leader - journalling can be the bridge between who you are now and who you’re becoming.

It’s not just mindset support. It’s momentum.

And it makes a difference.

The business owners I'm working with are writing books that will launch, grow and shape other people’s businesses - and in the process, those books are shaping them too.

That’s why I’m so proud of them. They’ve rejected the idea of templates and ‘just get it done’ frameworks. They’re doing the deep work - and when their books are out in the world, I know how proud they’ll be.

And what about you?

Has writing ever changed you - or the way you see your work?

Have you read a book that shifted your thinking or direction?

Do you have a business book in mind that’s quietly waiting for you to write it?

Let it begin with a notebook and a moment of honesty. That’s where all the best ones start.

Curious about writing your own thought leadership book - and doing it in a way that honours who you are and what you stand for?

Explore how we can work together through my book coaching services or reach out for a chat. And, if you're interested in seeing how daily journalling could change your day, I encourage you to join The Daily Self Journalling Prompt Club.