I often get asked by writers and non-writers what the best tips are for building writing success. Full transparency, I’m not sure there is a right answer. I do think there are tips that can work together and contribute to a writer creating a lasting career. Much of it has to do with consistency and not giving up when things don’t go your way. Although that’s the truth, it’s also the more general answer. So, I’ve outlined some tips below that have kept my own writing career going.
1. Write.
And this one is most important. To be a successful writer, you have to do the work. When I don’t feel like writing, I think of some of my favorite modern writers specifically and think about how they got that gorgeous book on my shelf. They likely wrote even when they didn’t feel like it. It doesn’t mean you have to write every day. In fact, I’m against that advice. I do think you need to write regularly. Find the schedule that works for you, then keep it consistent. I’m not here to shame anyone, but try to remember that at some point, you’ve got to get the work done.
2. Read enough.
Sure, this is a pretty timeless piece of writing advice. We should be reading—but my question is: are we reading enough. First, it is an absolute must for you to read to keep up with the industry. Whether you indie or traditionally publish, you should know what’s selling. Reading also helps you master your craft. I sometimes fall off the wagon with my reading and then when I get back to it, it reminds me of a few things. First, how much I love writing, and second, this is the goal—a book! And there is such a thing as not reading enough. I know that people will disagree with me, but writers should be reading each week as part of their writing practice. It should be part of our homework every single week. Reading is also writing.
3. Believe in and promote your work.
It’s really easy to tell yourself you’re not good enough, right? That maybe you don’t deserve to have book sales or publishing success in general. The easy thing is to decide NOT to put your work out there. So what about if you did the hard things instead? Why not insist (to yourself) that you are indeed good enough? What about celebrating book sales or a publication news? How about submitting your work and publishing your work on your own because you believe in your writing that much? If you truly take your craft seriously, then you absolutely deserve every bit of writing success.
4. Adopt the write mindset.
I firmly believe this or I wouldn’t have a whole podcast dedicated to it! Mindset work is so critical for writing success. This goes hand in hand with the third tip above, but writing mindset starts with a belief, but it’s so much more. Mindset work means engaging in the various ways you need to take care of your brain. That could mean regular writing routine, movement of your body, proper nutrition, rest, additional brain support which can be found in books, podcasts, education, and community. Mindset work is a daily practice, but making sure your mind is healthy is the foundation of writing success. I talk about mindset work for writers on a deeper level inside our Write Gym program and on The Write Mindset Podcast.
5. Invest in your craft.
I know this might not always be possible based on finances. But let me tell you, there are so many opportunities out there. You just have to be willing to do the legwork and find them. If you can afford it, go to writing conferences, register for workshops, book an editor or a writing coach, sign up for a group coaching program like our Write Gym. You can also take advantage of free offerings if finances are an issue. Local libraries are a great place to start.
6. Be part of a writing community.
Writing communities exist in many different places both online and within physical communities. Having that support system is critical. Yes, writing is solitary. That’s all the more reason to rely on your community. You don’t have to do it alone, why would you?
7. Love this journey.
Love it hard. We all have different paths, and the sooner we can recognize that, the better off we’ll be. You’ve heard it again and again, this isn’t a race, it’s a marathon. Writing life is not for the faint of heart.
Love the journey. If you’re a writer who has constantly been met with challenges and rejections, remember that one day it’s going to make for a really great success story. Writing is a long-term profession. We cannot just snap our fingers and be great writers. We have to practice by writing and rewriting. We have to submit and get rejected. We have to continuously learn and challenge ourselves. For me, if you are practicing your craft, continuously learning, and challenging yourself, that’s true writing success.
