This post was originally published at Novelicious.com and is now at WritingTipsOasis.com. WritingTipsOasis.com acquired Novelicious.com in June 2022.
1. Finish your book!
Anyone can start a book. The hard part is taking the story across the finish line. I feel like no climb is more gruelling than those last few chapters, and no outcome is more satisfying that knowing that you’ve finished! The beautiful thing is that once you’ve finished a book, deep down you know that you can finish another. You’re a writer. It’s official!
2. Hire an editor.
Never put your work out into the world until a seasoned editor can provide critical feedback on it. I don’t care what degrees you hold or how great of a writer you think you are. Having a great editor not only makes your book the best it can be, but the lessons you learn from that process will make you a better writer. Always strive to improve your craft.
3. Never take no for an answer.
Sometimes the easiest thing to do is give up when we’re told something can’t be done. When we pour our heart and soul into a book, it’s easy to feel deflated when we’re met with criticism and a seemingly endless cycle of rejection. Persevere, innovate, and things will find a way of falling into place.
4. Innovate.
Learn the rules and then break them is still solid advice. The world of publishing is changing daily. The increasing success of self-published authors is proof that anything is possible. Don’t be afraid to push the envelope and try strategies that no one has tried before.
5. Writing is always the answer.
Setbacks happen. Lulls occur. Deadlines loom. Remember why you started writing – hopefully because you love to and doing so satisfies your soul. Sometimes when I’m the most frustrated, I remember that writing solves everything. It meets my deadline, it takes me away from the stress of daily life, and it gives me a sense of satisfaction that will never be achieved by checking my social media accounts.
Hardwired by Meredith Wild is out now.