3 Tips for Beginning Writers

---

People always seem really impressed when they find out I wrote a book. Then they almost immediately say, "I've always wanted to write a book," I don't know if they truly are passionate about writing or if they are thinking- if she did it I can do it. . .Lol! But whatever the case, writing is not as easy as it looks!  

To write a book, you must have passion and discipline. It is a time consuming and often solitary task. And even after you think you're done, you're not. You will have to edit your "final" draft at least five or six times or more and then comes the task of getting people to buy and read your work. So yes, it looks easy and fun and even maybe a touch glamorous but nothing could be farther from the truth. Writing is work and even for those of us who love it, it can be a chore. 

If I had to give tips to newbie writers before they started on their writing journey, it would be the following:

1. Become a reader- If you plan on being a writer the best lesson is reading. I know it sounds strange but reading books- lots of books- will give you the feel for how a book is structured. How to set the pacing and write in different POVs (points of view). Reading the work of others also makes you better at critiquing your own work. When you read books you either get sucked into the story or you notice the mistakes the author made; all of which can be useful research for you as an author. Just be careful not to fall into the comparison trap. Every author has their own unique voice.
2. Determine WHY you are writing- Why do you want to write a book? Is it because you have a testimony to share that will inspire others? Do you have a great story to entertain the masses? Or do you just want to say you're an author for the sake of credibility? Get honest with yourself about your motives; this will serve as inspiration to get the book started and finished.
3. Find your audience- Once you are clear about the WHY, you need to determine the WHO. Who are you writing this book for? Single moms, married couples, fiction lovers, teen superhero lovers, foodies, survivors of abuse, etc.? Keep your audience in mind when writing your book. How will this benefit them? Will they find it entertaining or informative? You can't please everyone and your book can't be all things to all people. You have to focus on writing for people who will benefit from your work- these people who will also support your work and spread the word about your message.