#155. 10 Things That Will NOT Make You A Better Writer
Aug 20, 2024
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Discover the ten common misconceptions that prevent writers from improving, including the fallacy of waiting until you feel 'ready' to write. Learn why many writing groups can hinder rather than help your progress and the pitfalls of revising while drafting. Unpack the drawbacks of popular writing methods for beginners and understand the importance of investing time and resources wisely in your writing journey. This insightful discussion will empower you to avoid mistakes and enhance your path to becoming a better writer.
Aspiring writers should stop waiting for the feeling of readiness and instead embrace the discomfort of starting to write.
Receiving regular feedback from trusted peers is essential to prevent developing bad habits and improve writing skills effectively.
Deep dives
Overcoming the Fear of Waiting to Write
Many aspiring writers often delay starting their projects due to the belief that they need to feel completely ready before writing. However, this 'readiness' is often a myth rooted in self-doubt and fear of inadequacy. The discomfort that comes with starting a messy draft is preferable to the discomfort of stagnation, as putting off writing leads to further self-doubt and frustration. Instead of waiting for perfect conditions, potential authors are encouraged to take action and embrace the writing process, which fosters clarity and growth through experience.
The Importance of Feedback in Writing
Writing extensively without seeking feedback can lead to ingrained habits and repeated mistakes, ultimately hindering a writer's development. While producing a large volume of work is commendable, it is crucial to regularly receive external input to identify strengths and areas for improvement. This helps writers avoid developing detrimental habits that may affect their skills over time. Surrounding oneself with trusted critics, such as beta readers or writing coaches, can accelerate the path to improvement and mastery in writing.
Choosing the Right Writing Group
Joining a writing group filled with peers who lack experience in providing constructive feedback can be detrimental to a writer's growth. Many writers expect helpful insights, but vague or contradictory advice can lead to confusion and self-doubt. A successful writing group should align with an individual's writing goals and preferences, ensuring members share a common language and understanding of storytelling methods. By fostering a supportive environment where feedback is constructive and actionable, writers can significantly benefit from their group experiences.
The Necessity of Reading for Writers
Refusing to read while writing is a common pitfall for many authors who fear exposure to external ideas might dilute their originality or lead to unintentional plagiarism. However, reading inside and outside one's genre is essential for understanding market trends, narrative structure, and effective character development. Engaging with diverse literature can spark inspiration and provide valuable insights into the craft of writing. This practice not only enhances a writer's skills but also keeps them informed about what resonates with readers.
As someone who’s worked with hundreds of authors, I see people making the same mistakes over and over and over again. Mistakes that are easily avoidable once you know they’re mistakes.
In this episode, I’m sharing some of these mistakes. Specifically, the 10 things that will NOT make you a better writer—and oh boy is it a juicy episode! In it, you’ll hear me talk about:
[01:27] Why waiting until you feel more “ready” to write is actually one of the worst things you can do (and spoiler alert: you will never feel ready!)
[06:18] Why most writing groups don’t work (even if they’re full of well-meaning members)—and how to find the right writing group for you
[09:16] Why writing and revising at the same time is not the best thing to do (and what you should start doing instead to make progress on your book)
[20:30] The problem with popular writing methods—and why they can do more harm than good, especially if you’re brand new to writing
[24:59] My thoughts on investing in your craft, including when (and how) you should invest both your time and money based on where you’re at in the process
[28:26] Episode recap and final thoughts
So, tune in and let me help you avoid making some of the most common mistakes writers make—and let’s make this the year you finish (or publish!) your book.
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