365: Start Before You’re Ready | Azul Terronez

How to Stop Overthinking and Actually Write Your Book with Azul Terronez

If you’ve ever dreamed of writing a book but find yourself stuck in “prep mode,” you’re not alone. In this solo episode of Authors Who Lead, I delve into the real mindset blocks that prevent aspiring authors from taking that crucial first step.

After years of coaching writers—and navigating my own resistance—I’ve identified three common myths that stop talented storytellers from sharing their message. Here’s how you can move past them and finally start writing.

Start Before You Feel Ready

For most of my life, I have carried the dream of writing a book inside me. But I convince myself that I need just one more class… a better laptop… the right coffee shop… something.

That cycle lasts 24 years.

Eventually, I realize the truth: waiting to feel “ready” is just perfectionism in disguise. So I say yes—a scared yes—and begin. One messy paragraph at a time.

That’s what I invite you to do. You don’t need a full plan or a book deal. You just need a willingness to begin—even if it feels terrifying. Action—not planning—is the cure for creative paralysis.

Myth #1: You Need a Perfect Outline to Begin

The first myth I hear all the time: “I can’t start writing until I have a solid outline.”

I get it. It feels safer to try to structure your book like a bestseller you admire. But if you force that structure before your ideas take shape, you can accidentally block your voice.

Instead, let your ideas flow. Use sketches. Bubble maps. Whiteboards. Write your way into structure.

Books are creative endeavors, not academic assignments. Let your message lead the way—and allow the structure to emerge as you go.

Myth #2: You’re Not Qualified Enough

Imposter syndrome doesn’t discriminate. I’ve coached bestselling authors and first-time writers alike who still whisper, “Who am I to write this?”

But I believe this: your lived experience is your credential.

One example is Jada Sellner, an author and entrepreneur who has built a thriving business and powerful brand without a formal degree. Her impact comes from her story, not from a résumé.

If you’ve lived it, you can write it. You don’t need permission. You just need to trust that your story has value—and your voice matters.

Myth #3: You Don’t Have Time

Let’s tackle the biggest myth of all: “I don’t have time.”

Writing a book isn’t about finding time—it’s about shifting identity. Do you see yourself as an author? Because once you do, your choices start to reflect that.

When I’m a teacher and a dad and juggling a million things, I still find time to write. Not because I have extra hours lying around—but because I believe I’m a writer. Even 20 minutes a day adds up when you make that identity shift.

Start there.

Shift Your Identity: Say Yes to Being an Author

The most powerful decision you can make? Start calling yourself an author—even before you publish a single word.

Say yes to writing a “messy, terrible paragraph.” Say yes to joining the five-day challenge inside Authors Who Lead. Say yes to stepping into your calling.

You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to begin.

We’ve built a supportive community, along with the Born to Write, Scared to Start series, to help you shift your habits and your self-belief—because your story matters more than your doubts.

Final Thoughts

No matter where you are right now, your book starts when you stop waiting for permission.

Break up with perfectionism. Let go of the myths. Say “yes”—before you feel ready.

And if you need help, you don’t have to do it alone. Head to AuthorsWhoLead.com for free resources, upcoming challenges, and a community that’s ready to cheer you on.

Join us again next week for more captivating insights from influential authors and publishing experts. Remember to subscribe to Authors Who Lead and visit our website for more show notes and past interviews.

That’s all for this week. If you have a message inside of you that needs to be written, today is the day to start. Don’t delay—take action.