Unlock Your Story: Writing a Book to Launch Your Executive Encore

Why Most People Don’t Write Their Books—And Why Women Should Start Now

Have you ever thought about writing a book? If so, you’re not alone. Nearly 80% of people feel they have a story worth telling, yet only a small handful take the bold step to bring their words to life on the page.

Why is that?

Helen Wilkie, a seasoned book coach, shared some powerful insights during the recent Executive Encore video podcast about what holds people back and why women senior executives and entrepreneurs, in particular, should consider writing a book in their next chapter. 

Helen pointed out that common excuses, such as a lack of time or uncertainty about where to begin, often serve as surface-level justifications. If time feels scarce, writing a book can be a powerful way to navigate the shift from full-time work to your Executive Encore. It helps address the loss of identity while offering a renewed sense of purpose and fulfillment as you embrace this exciting new chapter of life. If you're unsure where to begin, Helen will guide you through the next steps with care and expertise.

 Fear Stops Most People

Helen points out that the real barrier is fear.

“Fear of judgment, fear of failure, and even fear of success are what truly hold people back,” she says. “Writing a book is deeply personal—it’s like putting a piece of your soul out into the world." For high-achieving women, this can be especially daunting. They are used to operating in their comfort zones, where they excel. Women write daily in their personal and professional roles and realms. They write well. They are prolific writers of letters, Executive Summaries, strategic initiatives, reports, etc. But, writing a book requires stepping into an unknown realm.

There is good news, however. Helen believes the world needs your story. She highlights that conquering the fear of writing can open the door to remarkable opportunities in a woman’s Executive Encore, such as professional speaking and consulting, driven by thought leadership showcased in a published book.

As a book coach, Helen helps women banish self-doubt, find their authentic and powerful voice, develop self-trust to elevate and amplify their voice, and finally start telling their stories.

“Your story is worth telling,” Helen says. “The moments that define your life and career can inspire others, spark change, and cement your legacy. Your lived experience is your legacy, not the book. However, writing a book is one of the most powerful ways to leave your mark on the world.”

Helen wrote a book to encourage us to write our own. The Book That Saved a Legacy: A Business Fable About the Importance of Telling Your Story.  Presented as a business fable, this book highlights the profound importance of individuals, especially business leaders and professionals, taking the time to document their own stories and experiences. 

Through a compelling narrative, the book underscores the value of preserving your legacy through writing. Helen asserts that if you don't share your own story, your story will remain untold, or worse, your story could be hijacked and inaccurately told by others.

Why Writing a Book Is a Perfect Project for Transitioning into Your Executive Encore 

Through trials and challenges, you have created something truly remarkable, shaped by your tenacity and resilience over decades. Your story deserves to be told authentically, in your own words, and preserved in a lasting, impactful form: a book.

For women executives and entrepreneurs nearing their next chapter as their careers wind down, writing a book can be an ideal way to transition into their Executive Encore. After decades of building expertise, leading teams, and achieving professional success, their books allow them to reflect on their journey, share their wisdom with the world, and inspire other women who follow in, outside, or beyond their paths. As a devoted reader of women's historical fiction, I am continually inspired by stories celebrating women's strength, resilience, and ability to shape a better world. These narratives, going back centuries, foster trust in women's personal and collective potential and ignite optimism about their invaluable contributions to their families, their communities, and their world.

Creating a Lasting Record of Your Legacy

“Writing a book is the perfect way for women to leave a lasting legacy,” Helen explains. “Think of all the lessons, strategies, and experiences you’ve accumulated over the years."

A woman's legacy lies in the harmony she creates between her life and work, embodying the journey toward wellness and self-fulfillment across personal and professional realms. A book packages that expertise and makes it accessible to others.

Helen's passion is helping seasoned professionals who are approaching their Executive Encore to write their memoirs and safeguard their legacies

Write Your Story and Open Doors

Writing a book is not just about leaving a legacy. It can also open doors to exciting new opportunities. Helen points out that publishing a book establishes you as a thought leader and creates avenues for consulting, public speaking, and partnerships. Writing your book is a remastering of your life and work that allows you to connect with a broader audience that values your insights beyond your title or professional background.

What’s Holding You Back?

The prospect of writing a book can feel overwhelming, but Helen encourages women to ask themselves an important question: What’s holding me back?

If fear is part of your answer, it’s worth remembering that every successful author has faced self-doubt - possibly the same doubts. The difference is they chose to push through. Writing a book isn’t just about creating something for others—it’s a transformative experience for the author as well.

Your book becomes a bridge between your past accomplishments and future endeavours. It’s a chance to tell your story, inspire others, and create a new path for yourself.

Ready to Start Writing?

If you’ve been sitting on the idea of writing a book, now might be the perfect time to take the leap. Even a page at a time. Start writing. Keep writing. Whether you want to share your story, build thought leadership, or leave a lasting legacy, now is the perfect time to take the first step toward shaping your next chapter and launch your Executive Encore with a deeply moving and fulfilling activity. Helen’s advice is clear: The world needs your story. All it takes is the courage to start.

This is your Executive Encore. What’s stopping you?

What type of book are you most interested in writing?

• Memoir
• Business/Leadership
• Fiction
• Self-help or Inspirational

If you could ask Helen one question about writing and publishing a book, what would it be?

• How do I get started?
• How do I structure and organize ideas?
• How do I connect with my audience?
• How do I publish and market effectively?

Connect with Helen

• Email: [email protected]
• Helen's website: The Executive's Book Coach
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/helenwilkie/

Your next chapter is waiting. Schedule an Executive Encore Complimentary Call with me. Ask and learn about the two-hour program Master Your Approach to Goal Setting for Transition from Employee to Entrepreneur.

Resources

The Book That Saved a Legacy: A Business Fable About the Importance of Telling Your Own Story , by Helen Wilkie, Executive Book Coach and Ghostwriter.

Unlock Your Story: Writing a Book to Make an Impact in Your Executive Encore. Guest: Helen Wilkie

• Podcast: 
• YouTube VIDEO Feature