The Worst Mistakes Writers Make

No one can claim to be a perfect writer, and we are all going to make mistakes from time to time. It’s normal. However, having the ability to learn from your mistakes, and also to recognize when your mistakes could cost you big, is so important.

So what are some of the worst (and most common) mistakes that writers make? Let’s take a look at some of them.

Not believing in themselves

Self-doubt is something that can strike even the most successful writers from time to time. While it’s almost a rite of passage to doubt yourself sometimes, if you let it take over and are constantly beating yourself up, you’ll end up not making progress or limiting your writing. Try to free yourself of self-doubt, gain writing confidence through learning and practice and have faith that your hard work will pay off in the end.

Not enjoying their writing.

Writing is something most of us choose to do. No one is forcing us into it. If you can’t enjoy your book you’ve got to start to wonder why you are doing it in the first place. Of course, it takes hard work. Of course, it takes effort. However, it is a good idea to check in with yourself from time to time to make sure it is still a pleasure and a positive thing in your life, otherwise perhaps you need to start thinking about how to change that.

Not editing enough

The editing process can be long and arduous. However if you don’t take the time to edit your novel thoroughly, you are doing yourself a great disservice. Make sure you put as much effort into your editing as you do writing your book and you’ll be so glad that you did when you finally finish it.

Giving up too soon

There are millions of people out there that want to write a book, and a lot of them start to do so. However, what is the percentage of people that begin writing a novel and actually finish one? Well, it’s a huge difference. It can be easy for other things in your life to get in the way, but if you have a story that you feel like you need to tell, then try not to give up until you’ve told it.

Not taking the time to learn

Writing is a craft and an art form. Many writers make the mistake of thinking that writing can’t be taught and therefore that they don’t have things that they need to learn. However, no matter how experienced a writer you are, there is always more you can learn, so always keep yourself not only open to the idea of learning but actively seeking experiences and lessons to make you a better writer.

Not realizing they need to be so much more than writers

A writer's job these days is so much more than being a writer, and if you want to be successful, there is no avoiding this fact. It’s fine just to write, if that’s what makes you happy. But the job description for professional writers is much more complex and demanding, are you up for the challenge?

So there you have it. Are you guilty of making these writing mistakes? If so, perhaps it’s time to make a change and get back to your best, most positive writing self once more!

Bethany Cadman - bethanycadman.co.uk

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