If a writer is to succeed he or she must take risks. What are these risks?
One of the first risks is the usage of time. If the idea of success is to write for one’s own satisfaction only, then writing is but a hobby, but if one is interested in being recognized as a writer, then other risks must be addressed.
The first one is the fear of rejectionrejection by peers, rejection by editors, and finally, rejection by readers. The first, can be the most important: if a writer presents his or her work to fellow writers and they are too critical, it can have a detrimental effect on the author, often to the point that the writer abandons his or her dream.
An important rejection is that by editors, but it must be realized that the editor has not rejected the writer, only that particular work. Many reason are possible: not appropriate, not needed at the time, overlooked, and many others. All writers have their work rejected so one must look for another market.
If the work is published, then the reader comes into play. Will they buy and read it? If they do, will they consider it or simply snub it?
Another risk is writing what you believe in. If the writer is to succeed, one must be convinced that what he or she says is important to them. Otherwise, the writing will lack sincerity and authenticity.
Once the work is written, it is important to get it out to readers and that can involve sending it to appropriate publications whether in the trade online or otherwise. Do not give up. If the writer believes that the work is significant then it must be placed before readers.
This mean that the writer must promote it with every means at his or her disposal, and many exist: newspapers, word of mouth, business cards, brochures, web sites, blogs, etc., to name a few.
Probably the greatest risk is believing in one’s self. Most writers have vulnerable egos thus it’s important to develop a positive attitude to one’s work. If the writer believes in his ability and effort then the battle is won.
Charles O. Goulet has a BA in history and a BEd in English literature. He has six books published, mainly historical novels.
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