If you’re an author who has used any type of self-help material to help you with your career in writing, you’ve most likely read how it is important to have self-belief and truly believe in your ability to succeed. However, if you’re struggling as a writer, just how do you believe in yourself? The tips below will help you.
1. If you don’t, no one else will
There is nothing new knew about this one. This principle applied before you and I were born. It still applies today. It will continue to do so in the future. Self-belief begins from within. If you don’t even entertain the possibility that you can be a successful author, it will be difficult to get others to believe in your ability. Start off by paying attention to what you say to yourself. If you catch yourself telling yourself negative words about you and your writing, replace them with positive ones and empowering statements. Even if you know in your heart that what you’re saying is not outwardly true, you’re working from the inside out. By using emboldening self-talk, you’re planting the seeds for corresponding action.
2. Don’t ignore the small successes
As an author, cherish the small wins. This could be celebrating the completion of a chapter, finishing a phase of beta reading, or making one sale. These are all examples of successes. You’ve achieved something, which previously you didn’t. Don’t discount small successes, as each success will have a cumulative effect, and the eventual result will be success, which is far greater than its parts.
3. Don’t ignore positive encouragement
Whenever you hear any positive words (in person or virtual) about your books from readers, or receive words of support from a writing mentor, or an editor, or a fellow writer about your writing, use these to your advantage. They are all signs you’re doing a good job, and that you’re on the right path.
4. Success comes with experience
Like anything in life, the more you write and publish, the better you will become. Your skill in writing stories will increase, as will your ability to market and sell your work. Don’t expect success overnight, as this happens rarely. Be in it for the long haul and do the work that needs to be done. Nothing can compensate for hard work over an extended period of time. However, ensure you’re working smart at the same time. Hard work done smartly is a whole lot different than hard work, which isn’t getting you the results you want. For example, if one method to brainstorm plot ideas isn’t working, and you’ve tried this technique multiple times, do something else.
5. Don’t take criticism personally
Readers will leave negative comments about your books. An editor may shred the first three chapters of your manuscript to bits. No matter how big the criticism, it has nothing to do with you as a person. It is about your work. Yes, I know it can be difficult to separate yourself from your work, but the separation exists nonetheless. Use the feedback to make the improvements. If you’re open to critical feedback, you’re open to doing things differently, which can only help fuel your growth as an author.
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[author] [author_image timthumb=’on’]https://writingtipsoasis.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/hv1.jpg[/author_image] [author_info]Hiten Vyas is the Founder and Managing Editor of eBooks India. He is also a prolific eBook writer with over 25 titles to his name.[/author_info] [/author]