One of the biggest challenges authors face is deciding how much of their personal story to include in their book. Some authors want to share every detail of their journey, while others hesitate to include anything personal at all. So, what’s the right balance?

The answer is simple: Include just enough of your story to help the reader get what they want from the book—nothing more, nothing less.

Let’s break this down by looking at two common mistakes authors make.

The Mistake of Including Too Much of Your Story

This may sound harsh, but it’s crucial to understand: Your readers don’t care about you, your story, or your book.

People buy books to solve a problem, learn something new, or achieve a goal. If your book is all about you—your fears, your achievements, your struggles—without any clear benefit to the reader, they won’t stay engaged.

That doesn’t mean personal stories don’t belong in books. It means they should serve a purpose. If your story illustrates a lesson, inspires the reader, or provides a relevant example, it belongs in the book. If it’s just there for self-indulgence, it doesn’t.

The Mistake of Including Too Little of Your Story

On the other end of the spectrum, some authors avoid sharing personal details entirely. They worry about seeming arrogant, being too vulnerable, or detracting from the professionalism of their book.

But a book with no personal connection often falls flat. Readers engage with stories. They learn through example. If you never share how the book’s lessons apply to real-life situations—including your own—it may be harder for readers to connect with the material.

How to Find the Right Balance

So how do you decide which parts of your story should go in your book? Use this simple test:

Does this story add value for the reader?

If it helps the reader understand a concept, feel motivated, or relate to the material, keep it. If it doesn’t, cut it.

How Vulnerable Should You Be?

A common question authors ask is how much emotion they should show in their writing. The answer: Be as vulnerable as you need to be to make the biggest impact on your reader.

For example, if you’re writing a book about financial success, sharing a story about filing for bankruptcy could build trust and credibility. Readers will see that you’ve been through challenges and learned valuable lessons. But if your book is about gardening, that same story may feel out of place and unnecessary.

Another key rule: Speak from your scars, not your open wounds. If you haven’t fully processed an experience, it may not be ready for your book. Writing can be therapeutic, but your book is not your therapy session. Share hard-earned wisdom, not raw emotions.

The Power of Storytelling

Think about your favorite book. What made it memorable? Chances are, it wasn’t just facts or information—it was a story that elicited deep emotion.

People learn and engage through storytelling. If you want your book to resonate, make sure you’re weaving in the right personal stories to connect with your reader.

Want more insights on writing a book that connects with readers? Read The Scribe Method for free online or purchase a hard copy here.