10 Things to Avoid on Your Writing Journey
Being an author is both a rewarding and challenging journey, but there are some common pitfalls that can derail your progress or hinder your success. Whether you’re just starting or have a few books under your belt, here are 10 things you should avoid doing if you want to thrive as a writer.
1. Don’t Neglect Your Writing Routine
Writing is a craft, and like any skill, it requires regular practice. A lot of aspiring authors think they can just wait for inspiration to strike, but this rarely leads to consistent progress. If you’re serious about writing, create a routine—whether it’s setting aside an hour every morning or writing 500 words a day. Consistency is key. Neglecting a writing schedule can cause you to lose momentum and make the process feel more daunting than it needs to be.
2. Don’t Skip Editing
Writing a book is just the first step. Editing is where the magic happens. Many authors make the mistake of thinking that their first draft is "good enough," but in reality, that’s rarely the case. Editing is not just about fixing typos and grammar issues; it’s about refining your narrative, improving character development, and tightening your prose. Don’t rush this process. Good editing can mean the difference between a mediocre book and one that’s truly engaging.
3. Don’t Ignore Feedback
One of the hardest things to hear as a writer is criticism. But ignoring feedback, whether it’s from beta readers, editors, or other writers, is a mistake. Constructive criticism is vital to improving your work. Yes, it can sting at first, but if you learn to take feedback with an open mind and a willingness to improve, you’ll come out stronger. Writers who only surround themselves with "yes" people often miss out on crucial insights.
4. Don’t Rely on One Draft
The first draft is a great starting point, but it’s rarely the end. Many authors make the mistake of thinking that once they’ve written the first draft, their work is done. But writing is rewriting. A successful book often involves multiple drafts and revisions. Don’t be afraid to go back to the drawing board to make your story better. Great books are built in layers.
5. Don’t Skip World-Building or Character Development
Whether you’re writing fiction or nonfiction, your world and characters should feel real and immersive. Many new authors focus too much on plot and forget to develop the setting or the individuals driving the story forward. Don’t rush through your world-building or character arcs. Readers want to feel connected to your characters and invested in your world. If you skimp on this, your story may feel flat or unrelatable.
6. Don’t Disregard the Importance of a Strong Opening
You have only one chance to hook your readers, and it happens in the first few pages of your book. Don’t waste this precious opportunity by starting with a slow or unnecessary scene. The opening should introduce your main conflict, your protagonist, and your world—ideally with an element of intrigue or tension that makes the reader want to keep going. A weak opening can lead to lost readers, and once they’ve put your book down, it’s tough to get them back.
7. Don’t Ignore Marketing and Promotion
Writing the book is only part of the journey; getting it into readers’ hands is just as important. Many authors assume that if they write a great book, the world will automatically find it. Unfortunately, that’s not how it works. Don’t ignore marketing or assume your publisher will do all the work for you. Build an online presence, engage with your audience on social media, network with other authors, and consider book promotion strategies like giveaways, blog tours, or paid ads. A well-marketed book stands a much higher chance of success.
8. Don’t Be Afraid to Take Risks
As an author, it’s tempting to play it safe, but this often leads to predictable and uninspired writing. Don’t be afraid to take risks with your stories, whether it’s experimenting with narrative structure, writing outside your comfort zone, or tackling difficult subjects. Readers can tell when a writer is playing it safe, and often, they are looking for something fresh and unique. Taking creative risks can help you stand out in a crowded market.
9. Don’t Compare Yourself to Other Authors
This one is tough, especially with social media. It’s easy to look at other authors’ success stories, their polished books, or their massive followings and feel discouraged. But remember, every author’s journey is different. Comparing yourself to others will only slow you down and make you second-guess your own path. Focus on your own progress, and understand that success is a long-term game. Be proud of your accomplishments, no matter how big or small.
10. Don’t Forget to Enjoy the Process
Writing can be hard work, and it’s easy to get caught up in deadlines, reviews, sales numbers, or what’s next. But remember why you started writing in the first place—because you love to tell stories, share ideas, or create worlds. If you forget to enjoy the process, writing will become a chore instead of a passion. Make time to celebrate small victories, like completing a chapter or finishing a tough edit. The journey is as important as the destination.
Final Thoughts:
Writing is a complex, evolving art, and no two authors take the same path to success. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll not only improve your craft but also increase your chances of writing books that resonate with readers. Remember, the road to becoming a successful author is full of twists and turns—but with patience, persistence, and a willingness to learn from your mistakes, you’ll get there. Keep writing, keep growing, and most importantly, keep enjoying the journey!
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