The isolated nature of writing a book can often lead many writers, especially those who are aspiring to write their first (or second or third) novel, to feel unseen and misunderstood. The somewhat ‘exclusive’ nature may appear a stereotypical trait of the writing world. Over-caffeinated academics with posh Oxford accents, or alcoholic sadists with a warped, pessimistic view of the world seem to be what many envision as the dominant types to be in the writing industry. As such, it’s no wonder an aspiring writer with dreams to become a published novelist may seem intimidated if they don’t fit in with the stereotypical crowd.
My work aims to change that. No longer shall writing be for an exclusive few who fit a certain set of traits, but rather for everyone who wishes to write a book. You don’t need to look, talk, dress or act a certain way- you just need to have a story that you want to write.
If you fit into this category of being a new kid on the block (or someone who feels like they’re back at square one), these are 3 reminders you need right now.
1. There is space for your art.
➡️ There is no such thing as over-saturation and no interest in what you write. The key is to find your voice, and your voice alone. Stop trying to sound like someone else just because they have seen success. The reason they have seen (sustainable) success is because they were true to themselves. They have a clear and defined voice. You’re the only one that can write the way you do. You’re the only one who can perceive the world the way you do. Hone into that, and you’ll find your voice. If you’re concerned about your writing not being a certain way, just remember: ‘There is space in the world for Shakespeare AND Sophie Kinsella’ (courtesy of my fellow entrepreneur & author- Andrea Sandu).
2. Find your reason why you write
➡️ Your why is your purpose behind why you write what you write. It helps with motivation as well as overcoming writer’s block. Perhaps you have a specific story that you want to share. Maybe you want to bring the struggles and history of a minority group to the mainstream. Maybe you want to shed light on an issue that most don’t know or speak about. Personally, I ultimately write my stories because I want to bring Croatia and its history to the mainstream. It doesn’t always look like stories about specific historical events, but it does include aspects of Croatia and its society- even when it’s set in another country.
3. Stop saying aspiring.
➡️ If you write, you’re a writer. If you write novels, you’re a novelist. If you write poems, you’re a poet. Ditch the word aspiring. You already are who you seek to be. If anything, it’s just a matter of time before it’s seen in the physical world. What you already have within you now is what will help you do so. Claim it. Own it.
Now get to it and start writing.
Let me know: which reminder did you need to hear most right now?