Two Heads are Better than One: Why Partnership Matters

As Javier and I reflect on our journey of writing Mindset Wizardry, we both agree that having the right partner made all the difference. This is the seventh and final post in our series of lessons learned from writing our first book, and today we want to emphasize the importance of finding a great partner when writing and publishing a book.

We were fortunate to have worked together in the past, which gave us a head start on understanding each other’s work styles. If you’re thinking about writing a book with a co-author, here are a few key lessons we learned along the way:

⭐Find Someone Equally Passionate

Writing a book is a long, often grueling process. It’s essential to choose someone who is just as excited about the topic as you are. When both people are deeply engaged, you can geek out on ideas together, brainstorm for hours, and share in the excitement of creating something meaningful. Javier and I were both passionate about thriving in a VUCA world, which kept our momentum going, even during the most challenging phases.

⭐Choose a Partner with Complementary Strengths

One of the things that made our partnership so effective was that we each brought different strengths and perspectives to the table. We divided the work into sections, with one person taking the lead on drafting a chapter while the other provided edits and added new content. This approach allowed us to view the material from different angles, breathing new life into each other’s sections. The result was a much richer and more polished final product than if either of us had written it alone.

⭐Honest Feedback Is Essential

A strong partnership is built on trust, and that includes being honest with each other about what’s working—and what isn’t. Throughout the process, we were able to provide each other with candid critiques. This helped us avoid blind spots and improve the quality of our writing. Whether it’s your co-author, editor, or pre-reader, surrounding yourself with people who will offer constructive feedback is critical to refining your book.

⭐Motivation and Accountability

Writing a book takes time, and there will inevitably be periods where you feel uninspired or bogged down. This is where having a great partner really pays off. Javier and I kept each other motivated through weekly meetings, where we’d check in on progress, share ideas, and offer encouragement. When one of us hit a wall, the other brought fresh energy to the project, helping us get back on track quickly.

The Power of Partnership

Writing a book is hard work, but it becomes much more manageable—and even fun—when you’re working alongside a trusted colleague and friend. Javier and I leaned on each other throughout the entire process, and it made the experience not only more productive but also more rewarding.

This is the final lesson in our series, and we hope you’ve found value in our reflections on the journey to publishing Mindset Wizardry. Stay tuned for more insights and tips in future blogs as we continue to share our thoughts on thriving in a VUCA world!