The writing journey is long, but you can enjoy many rewards along the way.
The Long and Challenging Road
In an hour, you put together the plot essentials and characterization ideas for a great novel. In a month of intense focus, you write a bad first draft. In a year, you write, edit, and rewrite repeatedly to create a book that’s pretty good. The next year, you spend a thousand dollars to attend a writers conference and give your elevator pitch three times. You are so excited because one agent wants to see your book proposal. Nothing happens after that. The book doesn’t sell.
You’ll never hear the above scenario. Why? Because it’s discouraging. If we don’t believe we can, we won’t even try. So we must believe. We want to hear stories about great successes.
Be aware that big successes come at high costs. We want to believe storytelling should be easy, but it never is. At the start, expect the journey to be long and challenging, so no matter how tough the going is, you must keep going.
Or you could take a different road . . .
The Long Road with the Short, Easier Parts
You have a creative thought and write a Facebook post. Three friends like it. And one stranger. In doing just that much, you have practiced how to grab attention and reward readers at the end. A small success, yet significant. You’re encouraged to do more.
Next you write a blog where you tell an interesting story with a great conclusion. You’re thankful for the two comments you receive. That wasn’t much success, but it was significant because you now must learn more about social networking and how to connect with your audience.
After reading a magazine, you think of similar experiences in your life, study the publication’s style, and submit your manuscript. On the second try, the editor wants your article.
Now you’re writing lots of articles. You’ve learned the craft and developed a credential that would get any acquisition editor’s attention. You are a proven writer who has the knowledge and skills to write feature articles and full-length books.
Both Roads Take Time
The best way to learn is to start with shorter pieces. Build on small successes, and the journey won’t seem so long and hard.
