Like any career, you’re going to face roadblocks and speedbumps on the road to success. It happens to every writer, and while it can be overwhelming and terrifying, most of the challenges that I have faced have pretty simple solutions.
Here are the top 5 biggest challenges I have faced as a writer and how I have historically overcome them:
1. Perpetual Doubt from Others
If you haven’t heard it already, it’s only a matter of time. Someone is going to tell you that you can’t do it. Someone is going to tell you that your dream is stupid. That you’re not good enough. That you should give up.
I’m going to tell you right now: You can do it. Your dream is not stupid. You are good enough, and you should not give up. Tell yourself that every single day. Use others’ words as fuel. Base villains off of those people. And most importantly, PROVE THEM WRONG.
2. Motivation to Write the Last Few Pages
Starting a book can be pretty easy, especially if you have a great idea. I’ve often found the first few weeks of writing are super simple! I find myself writing over 2,000 words a day in the beginning! But finishing your story is a whole other ball game.
If you find yourself unable to get through those last few thousand words, just continue to remind yourself why you love to write. Always keep your motivation in the back of your mind. And if, for whatever reason, you can’t remember your motivation, take a break from writing until you find it again.
3. Wondering Where to Begin After You Finish
So, you’ve written a book, now what? When you finish writing your book, you’ll feel slightly lost and confused. Here is my suggestion: start editing right away. Before you forget the magic of your storyline and characters, edit, edit, edit! Then, send it off to publishers, and keep doing so no matter how many rejections you get.
Be sure to send your book to family and friends as well, and consider their feedback in your editing.
4. Dealing with Rejection
Every great writer is rejected 100 times before a publisher agrees to take them on. Rejection will make you want to give up. Hearing just one person in the business tell you that you’re not good enough will make you want to stop writing all together. But you have to keep trying. Remember that you are a good writer and that a publisher will recognize that someday. So, keep sending it out.
You can always consider self-publishing as well. I did that for my first three books and found such joy in controlling the entire process myself.
5. Getting Sales
Publishing only takes you so far. How do you actually get people to buy your book? Self-promotion is the key. Email and call newspapers and bookstores, go to local book fairs, use social media, give away copies, and more! Do everything you can to get your book out there, get online reviews, and make a name for yourself. Never count on anyone else for your success.
Looking for any other advice before, during, or after writing your book? Feel free to contact me! I’d love to talk one-on-one about my experiences and my advice for you.