The Biggest Myth New Writers Must Overcome to Succeed
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Chapter 1: The Illusion of Easy Writing
It's time to address the overly romanticized notions surrounding writing. Many people claim that "writing is one of the best things that ever happened to me." While this can be true for dedicated individuals, it's not always as simple as it sounds.
Believing that writing is a constant joy can lead to disillusionment and frustration, ultimately causing you to abandon your craft altogether.
The Hard Truth from My Fitness Journey
Over the past decade, I've dedicated countless hours to fitness, often pushing through challenges and setbacks. Initially, my time at the gym was marked by insecurity and stagnation. I oscillated between being fit and falling out of shape repeatedly. Eventually, I committed to bodyweight training outdoors, which taught me an important lesson: difficult tasks don’t necessarily become easier over time.
Despite my efforts, I still find myself exhausted during workouts, battling muscle fatigue, and grappling with disappointment on tough days. However, this doesn't signify a lack of progress; it simply means that the effort required remains high. This realization is vital as it helps reshape our perspective on writing.
Deconstructing the Myth of Writing
Being a writer is often glamorized, second only to being a pilot in terms of desirability. People envision themselves in a café, crafting captivating stories while surrounded by luxury. While this fantasy may resonate with a select few, the reality is often starkly different.
Having spent the last four years as a full-time writer, I can assure you that the romantic allure fades quickly. The work can be arduous and, at times, monotonous. Just as with fitness, writing doesn't naturally become easier.
In “The War of Art,” Steven Pressfield describes the constant battle against resistance that writers face. There's no heavenly guidance; it's up to you to motivate yourself to write.
Finding Hope Amidst the Struggle
Let’s be clear: writing doesn’t get simpler with time. I still grapple with tapping into my vulnerability and authenticity, often facing failures. Yet, I've learned to excel in various aspects related to writing—knowing when and where to publish, managing client expectations, and even recognizing stories in everyday life.
However, the act of writing itself remains challenging. As writers, we confront insecurity head-on, pushing through to produce our work. Writing can be both a source of struggle and a wellspring of personal growth.
Don't deceive yourself into thinking that writing becomes effortless. You may improve in various areas, but the internal battle to create will always be present. Recognizing this fact is crucial to your journey as a writer.
Thank you for taking the time to read this. How do you overcome your own challenges in writing? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Section 1.1: Understanding the Challenges
Section 1.2: The Importance of Persistence
Chapter 2: The Reality of Writing
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