Borrowed Wisdom: Using Quotes and References in Your Self-Help Book

Jan 28

Imagine this: you’re crafting your self-help or spirituality book, pouring your heart and soul into every word.

But as you are writing, you recall a powerful quote from another author that perfectly encapsulates your message, or an exercise you learned in a workshop that you’d love to share with your readers. But wait—can you use it? Do you need permission? And how do you do it both legally and ethically?

This is where many aspiring authors find themselves pausing, unsure of how to navigate the fine line between inspiration and infringement. Don’t worry—you’re not alone. Let’s break it down so you can confidently use quotes and references while staying true to your integrity and the law.

Why Use Quotes in Your Book?

Incorporating insights, quotes, or research from other authors isn’t just about adding gravitas to your writing. It’s about creating a richer tapestry of wisdom that your readers can connect with. Here’s how quotes can elevate your book:

Add Credibility: Referencing well-known authors or experts in your field can strengthen your message.
Build Bridges: Acknowledging others’ work shows humility and recognizes the shared journey of self-discovery and learning.
Provide Diversity: If you’re writing about a universal experience such as love or sorrow, quotes from other authors can enrich your perspective.

But with great quoting power comes great responsibility. Let’s talk about when you need permission and how to give credit where it’s due.

Do You Need Permission to Use That Quote?

The answer depends on a few factors:

1. The Length of the Quote

Short passages or well-known phrases (e.g., “Be the change you wish to see in the world”) fall under “fair use” in many cases, meaning you don’t need permission.
Longer excerpts from books, speeches, or articles might require permission, especially if they form a significant part of your content.

2. Published vs. Unpublished Work

Published works are generally easier to quote, as they’re intended for public consumption.
For unpublished works (like personal letters or private communications), you’ll almost always need permission.

3. Commercial Intent

If your book is for personal use or free distribution, you have more leeway when quoting other authors.
For commercially published books, even seemingly minor quotes could require formal approval to avoid legal pitfalls.

4. The Source Material’s Copyright Status

Works in the public domain (e.g., those published before 1923 in the U.S.) are free to quote without restrictions.
For works still under copyright, you’ll need to tread carefully.

How to Use Quotes Properly

So, you’ve got your quote. Now what? Here are the steps to ensure you’re on the right side of the law and literary ethics:

1. Always Attribute the Source

Include the author's name, the work's title, and publication details. For example:

In her 2012 book Daring Greatly, Brené Brown writes, "Courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen."

For paraphrasing, attribution is still essential. For example:

In her book The Five-Second Rule, Mel Robbins explains that starting before you feel "ready" is the key to breaking through blockages and achieving your goals.

2. When in Doubt, Seek Permission

Contact the publisher, author, or rights holder for permission if the quote is substantial or central to your content, or if you would like to adapt a tool or exercise from another author's book to use in your own--a simple email or letter request often does the trick.

If you're using an exercise you learned from a different teacher or author, be sure to provide proper attribution, even if you got their permission.

"I first encountered this exercise in a workshop taught by Tara Brach, and over the years I’ve adapted it for my clients with ADHD."

Don’t just copy and paste another author’s tool or exercise into your book, even with permission; adapt it for your readers’ needs, incorporating your own wisdom and rewriting any instructions and explanations in your own words.

Ethical Writing: Why It Matters

Beyond the legal side, there’s an ethical responsibility to respect the original creator’s work. Responsible quoting isn’t just about avoiding lawsuits—it’s about honoring the spirit of collaboration and shared knowledge. When you acknowledge someone else’s wisdom, you’re building trust with your readers and fostering a sense of community within your field.