For many writers and self-publishing authors, the business side of writing can feel overwhelming.

However, a simple one-page business plan can help you clarify your goals, streamline your priorities, and create a roadmap for success.

Unlike traditional multi-page business plans, a one-page version is concise, easy to update, and perfect for creatives who want to focus on their craft while building a sustainable writing career.

Best of all, you can create it in less than 24 hours!

In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits of a one-page business plan, break down the process, and provide actionable tips to get you started.

Why a One-Page Business Plan?

A one-page business plan offers several advantages for writers:

1. Clarity: It forces you to focus on what truly matters, eliminating unnecessary details.
2. Efficiency: You can create and revise it quickly, keeping your goals relevant as your career evolves.
3. Motivation: A clear plan keeps you aligned with your vision, helping you stay motivated and on track.
4. Flexibility: It’s easy to adapt as your priorities or circumstances change.
5. Simplicity: The compact format makes it less intimidating than traditional plans, which can feel overwhelming.

Whether starting or looking to level up your writing business, a one-page plan ensures you have a clear direction without overcomplicating things.

Step 1: Define Your Vision (What Do You Want?)

Start by asking yourself: What do I want to achieve with my writing career?

Your vision is your ultimate goal. Be specific and think big. Some examples might include:

“I want to become a bestselling author in the romance genre.”

“I want to earn $100,000 annually from my writing.”

“I want to use my books to build a speaking and coaching business.”

Write down your vision in one or two sentences. This will serve as the guiding light for the rest of your plan.

Step 2: Identify Your Target Audience (Who Do You Serve?)

Every successful writing business is built on understanding its audience. Ask yourself:

• Who are my ideal readers?
• What are their interests, challenges, and desires?

For example, if you write cozy mysteries, your audience might be adults who enjoy lighthearted, suspenseful stories. If you’re a self-help author, your audience might be professionals seeking actionable advice for personal growth.

Write a short description of your target audience, focusing on their demographics, interests, and needs. This will help you create content and marketing strategies that resonate with them.

Step 3: Outline Your Offerings (What Do You Sell?)

What are the products or services you plan to offer? This could include:

• Books (fiction or non-fiction)
• Audiobooks
• Courses or workshops
• Coaching or consulting
• Merchandise (e.g., journals, book swag)

List your current and future offerings. If you’re starting, focus on your primary product — your book — and consider what additional income streams you could build later.

Step 4: Set SMART Goals (How Will You Measure Success?)

SMART goals are:

• Specific: Clearly defined.
• Measurable: Quantifiable with metrics.
• Achievable: Realistic and within reach.
• Relevant: Aligned with your vision.
• Time-Bound: Attached to a deadline.

Examples of SMART goals for writers include:

“Finish and publish my next novel by June 30, 2025.”

“Grow my email list to 5,000 subscribers by December 2025.”

“Earn $2,000 monthly in royalties within six months of publishing my book.”

Write down 2–3 SMART goals that align with your vision.

Step 5: Plan Your Marketing Strategy (How Will You Reach Your Audience?)

Marketing is essential for connecting with readers and promoting your work. Identify the key strategies you’ll use to reach your audience. These could include:

• Social Media: Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or Twitter to connect with readers.
• Email Marketing: Building and nurturing a subscriber list.
• Content Marketing: Writing blog posts, creating videos, or recording podcasts.
• Paid Advertising: Running ads on Amazon, Facebook, or Google.
• Collaborations: Partnering with other authors or influencers.

Choose 2–3 marketing strategies to focus on based on where your audience spends their time.

Step 6: Create a Financial Plan (How Will You Make Money?)

Your financial plan doesn’t need to be complicated, but it should outline:

• Expenses: Editing, cover design, marketing, software subscriptions, etc.
• Income Streams: Royalties, course sales, speaking fees, etc.
• Profit Goals: How much do you aim to earn and when?

For example, if you aim to earn $10,000 in royalties in your first year, calculate how many books you need to sell and at what price point. This will help you focus on actions that drive results.

Step 7: Define Your Daily Actions (What Will You Do?)

Consistency is key to achieving your goals. Break down your big-picture plan into actionable daily or weekly tasks. Examples include:

• Writing 1,000 words a day.
• Posting on social media three times a week.
• Sending one newsletter per month.
• Engaging with readers in online communities daily.

List 3–5 actions you’ll commit to regularly. These should directly contribute to your goals.

Putting It All Together: Your One-Page Plan

After completing each step, condense your answers into a single page. Here’s a suggested format:

1. Vision: A clear statement of what you want to achieve.
2. Target Audience: Who your ideal readers are.
3. Offerings: What you sell now and plan to sell in the future.
4. SMART Goals: 2–3 measurable goals with deadlines.
5. Marketing Strategy: The key methods you’ll use to promote your work.
6. Financial Plan: A basic outline of expenses, income, and profit targets.
7. Daily Actions: The habits you’ll stick to for consistent progress.

Tips for Creating Your Plan in Less Than 24 Hours

• Set Aside Focused Time: Dedicate 2–3 uninterrupted hours to brainstorming and writing your plan.
• Use Templates: Download a one-page business plan template or use a tool like Canva or Notion to format it.
• Keep It Simple: Avoid overthinking — focus on clarity and actionability.

The Benefits of Your One-Page Plan

With your plan in hand, you’ll have: A clear roadmap to guide your writing business. A tangible reminder of your goals and priorities. Motivation to stay consistent and track your progress.

Creating a one-page business plan is a powerful way to take control of your writing career. In less than 24 hours, you can transform your vision into an actionable strategy that drives success. Start today, and watch your writing business thrive!

Get started today with this great resource!

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