Writing a lifestyle book is a powerful way to share what you’ve learned, uplift others, and spark positive change. But if your goal is to create a book that stands out and earns recognition—like an award—it takes more than just good advice and a compelling topic. It takes intention, originality, and a thoughtful reader experience from cover to cover.
So how do you move from simply writing a lifestyle book… to writing an award-winning one? Here are six expert tips to help your message shine and get noticed.
1. Write for someone, not just to everyone
The best lifestyle books feel personal, like they were written just for you. That’s no accident. Award-winning authors take time to understand exactly who they’re writing for. Who is your reader? What are they struggling with? What do they care about? When you focus your message on a specific audience, you naturally create a more powerful connection, and your advice resonates on a deeper level.
2. Offer a fresh perspective
Let’s face it: certain topics in the lifestyle space, like self-care or decluttering, have been covered a million times. But what makes your book stand out is the way you tell the story. Do you bring a unique background, lens, or voice to the topic? Maybe you’re tapping into an emerging trend or an underserved audience. Books that bring something new to the table, even on familiar themes, often grab the attention of readers and award judges.
3. Make the journey easy to follow
Great lifestyle books don’t just talk to the reader—they guide them. That means your content needs to be organized, purposeful, and easy to digest. Think of your book like a well-designed experience: each chapter builds on the last, transitions feel natural, and your takeaways are clear and actionable. Strong structure helps your message land—and makes the book more enjoyable from start to finish.
4. Back it up with proof and heart
Sharing your personal journey is important, but supporting it with facts, studies, or expert insights adds serious credibility. Even better? Show how your ideas play out in real life. Include client stories, reader feedback, or before-and-after examples. When people can see the impact of your approach, it builds trust—and makes your message even more powerful.
5. Pay attention to the polish
This is where good books become great. Clean editing, thoughtful formatting, and a cover that reflects your book’s tone and audience all matter more than you might think. Judges (and readers) can spot when a book has been carefully crafted versus rushed. Taking the time to polish your pages shows pride in your work and signals that you value your reader’s experience.
6. Let your voice shine
At the end of the day, what really sets your book apart is you. Your energy, your style, your personality—these are the things that make your book memorable. Don’t be afraid to be warm, witty, bold, vulnerable, or unconventional. When your voice comes through on the page, it builds trust, relatability, and a lasting impression.
Final Thoughts: Set Your Sights on More Than Just a Great Book
Yes, writing an award-winning book takes effort, but it’s completely within reach when you lead with clarity, creativity, and care. By focusing on your reader, sharing your perspective, and crafting a thoughtful experience, you’re doing more than writing a book—you’re making a real impact.
And that’s exactly what the Living Now Book Awards are here to celebrate. If you’ve created a book that helps people live richer, more meaningful lives, we’d love to see it. Because when your words inspire action, change, and growth, that’s something worth recognizing.
