Dr. Pepper Schwartz Prime

I think one of most powerful and empowering things a woman can do is share her experiences with others—especially in writing. As I wrote the conclusion to Prime I was well aware of the fact that I was being given an opportunity to share what I had learned, what was important to me and other women as they entered the second fifty years of their lives. Writing has its risks—especially if you intend to get it published—exposing yourself to both acclaim and criticism. I think it’s worth the risk to write about we dream and what we know.

I started writing in the academic world in a university setting. I have, for most of my books, been a firm believer in collaboration and have co-authored most of my books. As you can see my list of published books you will see how much a departure Prime is from my body of work. Prime felt riskier than anything I’d ever tackled before.

I believe every person has a story to tell. If you are writing because you passionately believe in what you have to say keep writing. Don’t worry about finding an agent or a publisher. Write because you have to write. Find the time and commit to it.

After I had my first drafts of my chapters of Prime I shared them with my closest friends to get their reactions. I had to put my ego to the side as friends candidly critiqued my writing and storytelling. I started with one idea for Prime and it morphed into something quite different by the end of the process. I would encourage writers to be open to change and not get wedded to anything in the first draft stage.

After a first draft and critique by friends and colleagues it was time to sell the book. Because I have written so many books it was easier for me to find representation and to find an audience with a publishing house. I pitched my book idea and in the course of the conversation with the editor and publisher we ultimately came to the notion of creating a hybrid—part memoir/part self-help book. I was open to change and, again, it’s this openness that allowed Prime to evolve.

Many writers, especially women with kids and work, wonder how they will find the time to write. It’s truly a wonderment how any mother working outside the home creates a book. But we do. It takes the support of family and friends to be sure. I carved out time over almost a year to create was amounted to three drafts of Prime. Find one friend who believes in you and your memoir who will be your support system—especially when life events get in the way of your writing progress.

It is my custom, if possible, to get away to finish the final chapters of a book. In the case, of Prime, I picked one of my favorite places in the world, Bali. I had the luxury of my dear friend Dom to help me. His “duties” included keeping my spirits up, editorial devil’s advocate, occasional muse, working editor, and perhaps most important, taskmaster. Happily, he was also the master of entertainment, and is responsible for booking my four hand massages, one of the highlights of the trip. This kind of help isn’t necessary but it sure is nice!

I had a publishing contract before I wrote the whole book, but not every one does. Publishing you work may seem daunting, but don't lose heart. There are many ways to disseminate your work - from big New York publishing houses, to small boutique local and regional publishers, to self publishing or publishing your work in a blog or website. Some books start with small debuts and are snapped up later by a major publisher.

However, I believe that writing itself is fulfilling, even if it never does get published. The important decision, I believe, is to feel you have something important to express, and to do so. Personally, I think most women in the prime of their lives have inspiring experiences and insights to share. Each personal journey has something to teach. I encourage you to write the article or book you have been thinking about. And I hope that someday I will be reading, and learning from, you.