Writing a novel is hard work, but it’s not impossible. People do it all the time! Here are five ways you’ll make the process much easier on yourself.
1. Write something you want to write
Sounds obvious? Well, we’re all aware of what sells the most, and sometimes it’s tempting to jump onto that bandwagon. Don’t do it. Instead, write what inspires you the most. If you don’t love your book with the crazy passion of an obsessed dreamer, your readers won’t either.
2. Foster the perfect writing environment
By which I don’t just mean the place where you work, although that is important too, whether you like writing in a cave or a café (I’m definitely a caver). Find what works and stick to it as much as possible. Likewise, you’ll have different times you prefer to write, different materials, and different methods. There’s no right or wrong here: only what works.
3. Use the people around you
Writing is often solitary, but that doesn’t mean our work doesn’t rest at least partly on the efforts of others. Friends and family who understand what you’re going through make a huge difference, as do the other writers we may meet along the way. Mentorship can come from surprising places, so don’t be afraid to reach out for support, advice and validation, as needed.
