How to become a fulltime writer

Some thought from writer Gregory :

There is hardly any writer who started as a fulltime writer. Like myself, there was that skepticism if I had what it takes; if the world will read and love my work.

Eventually, after several attempts, I began to master the art of writing, and ultimately, began to yearn to become a fulltime writer. However, becoming a fulltime writer is not a feat that happens overnight. You must observe some steps to become an accomplished fulltime writer. What are these steps?

Read and Learn 

The very first thing to do is to read and learn as best as you can about being a fulltime writer. Learn about the creative aspect, learn about the publishing and sales aspect, and also learn about the limitations that could confront you.

There are so many websites on the internet with loads of information. You can also visit the websites of writers, who knows; you may come across valuable information that will be so helpful. Mind you, do not limit your research to popular websites. Visiting premade book cover design sites like creative paramita and book review sites can give you an insight as to how readers think, their expectations, how they react, and what inspires them.

Get to Work, No time to Waste!

Time management is key to being a successful fulltime writer. From the very moment you decided to become a fulltime writer, you should know that work has started; so, start writing, keep writing. It takes discipline and dedication. You do not wait till when you feel it convenient for you to write, the only possible outcome of such a lazy attitude is a never-ending backlog of unfinished works, which will ultimately translate to unpaid rents and bills.

Never forget that setting your priorities right and making sacrifices is paramount to becoming a successful fulltime writer.

Keep Writing

It is okay for you, especially at start-up, to feel unsure of yourself. No one wants to fail. To reach the heights possible as a fulltime writer, you must never let your fear get the better of you; even when you feel unsure about what you are doing, keep writing.

The only way to getter better is to keep writing. Never be afraid of having to rewrite a piece over and over. Yes, it is stressful and sometimes tiring, but with every rewriting you do, your work gets better; you get better at what you do.

Do not be comfortable with your first attempt. Always proofread your work to identify and correct errors, and double-check that your ideas are well expressed.

Always Push to be Better

Seeking to be ‘better than your best’ should be on your priority list. Sitting too long within your boundaries at some point limits you. Push yourself regularly to go beyond what you can do already. For instance, as a fiction writer, push yourself by trying other genres of writing.

Setting new targets is another way to bring out a better version of you. For instance, if you write 3000 words daily, you can set a new target of 4000 words per day.

Self-Publish

Getting a publisher in most cases is difficult for new writers; this can take several months or even years. What do you do then? You do not wait and do nothing. You do self-publishing.

You can start by creating a blog, then publish your works on the blog. You publish short fiction stories or even an e-book. It is a way of making yourself known.

Associate with other Writers

Isn’t it so wonderful that we live in an age where distance is barely a barrier? You have no excuse not to associate with other writers. Meeting them all in person might not be possible, but social media bridges this gap. Search and get into forums where you have writers, make connections. You learn a lot from your colleagues, and exchanging ideas with them builds you and reassures you that you are not alone.

Be Relentless

A fact you must know and accept is that being a fulltime writer is not a bed of roses. Success is not instant; it might take a while, even years. You must be ready to be rejected by publishers.

Regardless, you must never give up and stay focused always. Never stop putting in efforts.

Know when to Rest

In as much you need to give it your all, you must also know when to rest to avoid burnouts. Take breaks to relax, read, watch movies, hang out with family or friends, or travel; anything that breaks you away from writing. Taking a break can be so refreshing for you.

Never forget that only a healthy mind can be productive; burnouts can inflict both mental and physical illness on you.