In the past eight years since I started writing, I’ve lived a lot. I’ve also learned a lot, especially about the writing business. Here are the top five lessons I’ve learned the hard way.
1) Always work with a contract. I’m a trusting person, at least I used to be, and I always want to believe that a person’s word is as good as a written contract. But I learned the hard way that it isn’t. I also feel a bit stupid for being so trusting. But now that I’m jaded, I will never work without a contract again.
2) There is no right or wrong way to write. When I first started writing, I read everything I could about novel writing. I joined writer’s groups, attended worshops, read books on craft and even took a correspondence writing course. The rules regarding writing seemed endless–and contradictory. Plot before you write. Don’t worry about plotting, let the story flow organically. You have to have an agent to sell. Never mind getting an agent, they’re harder to get than an actual book contract. Always promote yourself. Don’t waste your time promoting yourself, the work will speak for itself. Now I know that while its good to know what the “rules” are, its also okay to break them. Or toss them out. Or ignore them completely, as long as the end product is saleable.
3) Be true to yourself. Everyone has an opinion and advice. You can go crazy trying to do everything people in this business tell you. Keep your sanity and carve your own path, regardless of what other people tell you to do.
4) Be reliable. Never miss a deadline. If you absolutely have to, contact the editor.
5) Develop a good reputation. This is something I’m still working on, as I consider myself still in the beginning stages of my writing career.
A writer’s reputation can make or break a career. I’ve seen it happen, and it’s not pretty.
Happy writing,
kathy
www.freerice.com