How To Go From Writer to Author

There’s nothing better than the feeling of holding your own book in your hands

Let's hope your book cover looks a little more interesting than this one.

I heard recently that a poll was done asking writers what their biggest challenge was. The overwhelming majority said the same — finishing their first book.

It’s important to note these words: FIRST BOOK. It becomes a lot easier to write a second, and a third, and so on, but that first book is always the hardest. In fact, I know people who spend years (decades even) trying to perfect their book. And most of these are people who want to write books for a living.

You cannot have a living as an author if your book stays on your computer (or notebook if you’re that way inclined). You HAVE to take a leap of faith.

Here are five tips to help you go from writer to author:

Develop a writing routine

A writing routine is one of the best ways to finish your novel. The worst thing you can do as a writer is to write when inspiration hits you or when you find the time. You may never find the time, and the inspiration may never come.

You have to treat your book like any other project you do for work, you have to make the time for it. This will look different to everyone. Some people work full days in another job, others don’t. Some are night owls, while some love the early morning. Whatever your day looks like, find a way to add writing into your routine, and STICK TO IT. Even if that is 300 words a day. Trust me, it all adds up and one day you’ll have a complete manuscript in your hands.

Set measurable goals

Goals are important. Check out my article, The Right Way to Set Goals, and see how you can implement this into your own life. Remember, you need a finish line (a date), one big goal (to finish your book), and then actionable goals to get you there (how many words per day/week/month).

Never stop learning

The best writers are those who continue learning. Study the craft of writing, touch up on your grammar, learn from the masters, read in both the genre you’re writing in, and outside of it.

Find a community

The writing community is a wonderful one. It’s how I went from writer to author. There are many on Facebook you can find, or even in person ones in your area. And you’re more than welcome to join my own group, The Wordy Wombats — it’s an encouraging platform for all writers.

Don’t be afraid of failure

The biggest reason why writers never become authors is because they’re afraid of failure. They’re scared of bad reviews. They’re nervous about making mistakes. I get it. I’ve published a lot of books, and I still get scared. Remember that books are subjective, what one loves, another hates. Market it correctly, and find YOUR tribe.

At the end of the day, if you want to go from writer to author, it’s up to you to make that happen. But with acheivable goals, and the right mindset, you can do it.

And when you do, please share your book with me so I can support you.

And always, thanks for supporting me.

If you've read any of my books, I would appreciate a review or share. Thank you so much.