So you want to write a book? What’s holding you back? Chances are high that you make one of these three standard excuses:
- I don’t have enough time
- I don’t know what to write about
- I’m not a good enough writer
Chances are also high that these are just excuses to cover up what’s really holding you back: Fear
Fear is what’s holding you back.
It’s either fear or laziness. If you’re reading this, it’s more likely fear because the lazy person would most likely not even take the time to read a blog post about writing.
Is Fear Holding You Back From Achieving Your Dream?
- Stop being overcritical: This is the #1 issue for writers. You’re overcritical about your writing. You pick out every little mistake. You might also make the mistake of comparing your writing to others’ writing. Get over it! We’re all human. Of course you’ll make mistakes. But you only improve with practice. Write more. Improve. It’s as simple as that.
- Stop questioning your ability: If you can write a simple sentence, you can write a book. You don’t have to be Shakespeare to write a great book. Simple writing is the best writing. Just sit down and start!
- Start writing more: One way to kick fear in the face is to act. If you’re afraid of dogs, pet a dog. If you’re afraid of carnival rides, take a chance on one. If you fear that you’re not a good writer, write more. Try journaling. It’s that simple. Sometimes it’s what you don’t do that’s holding you back from your dream. Just write.
- Make a plan: One reason people don’t follow through with writing is that they have no plan. Create a schedule for writing. Have a specific time and place to write. Create a list of ideas for writing. Get started and stick with it. It’s also a good idea to have a niche. Having a niche teaches you to focus.
- Share your writing: This is the hard part for some of you, but it must be done. Share your writing with friends or family. Share your work on social media. If you don’t have a blog, consider starting one. If you want to write a book, you have to get used to letting others read your work.
- Don’t believe everyone: Everyone has an opinion. Many of those opinions stink. Take criticism from others with a grain of salt. Ask yourself, who is the critic? If they’re an experienced writer, you should listen to their advice. If they’re an expert in the genre, you should listen. If they can’t write a sentence themselves, ignore them.
It’s Time To Kick Fear To The Curb
Stop questioning your ability to write and start writing every day. When you make a habit of something, it sticks. When you do something that you fear, you beat fear. You can beat fear today.
If you want some help in the process, Hip Diggs has a few simple coaching packages available. You can also check out my free ebook: Simple Instructions: How To Write Like It Really Matters.
