We all want to be successful. As a writer or anything else, we all like to be recognized by our work.
That recognition can also be quite scary. After all, it leaves us exposed to criticism, bad reviews, or nasty comments online. You can (and should) try to ignore them, but eventually, something will hit your nerves.
At that moment, you start to ask yourself: do I have what it takes to be successful? Stop right there!
Postponing the fear
Many writers and aspiring keep postponing their writing due to their daily responsibilities. It’s a common thought to decide to write when the kids become independent, or when you retire.
Most of the time, this decision is due to nothing else than the fear of failure.
You postpone your stories, your books, your fears… You believe you’ll deal with them later, but often, it is an illusion.
Are you talented enough?
Talent is a beautiful word to say. According to the dictionary is a “natural aptitude” to do something. You have met too many talented people in your life, and you wish you have it as well.
The first problem with focusing on talent is that it is not measurable. That makes it difficult to know if you have the gift or not. Secondly, talent is great, but it alone is nothing. Writing is what makes you a writer. Talent without production is worthless.
You must write to improve, that’s not an innate thing. You’ll write thousands and thousands of words, and most of them will be sent directly to the trash can. You will keep improving your skills until finally get your shot. Maybe, someday, you’ll see your work published and your skills recognized.
Do it and do it again
One of the biggest mistakes of beginners is to compare their work with published, successful writers. It’s evident that you should read them, you’ll learn a lot from them. Yet, let’s face it: your first draft will never be as good as their best novel.
This doesn’t mean you aren’t good enough, or that you should quit. It only means you need to train—the most as you can.
Being a good writer takes time and practice, not talent. For some people may be easier than for others, of course, but if you really commit to it, there is no stopping you.
You’ll be a good writer, with practice.
A successful writer is someone persistent enough to keep trying.
Cátia Isabel Silva 