Many people ask themselves what it would be like to write a book, but very few actually do it. A 2021 survey by ThriftBooks found that while more than half of respondents believed they had a good novel idea, only 15 percent had begun writing, and just 8 percent completed the project. The gap between intention and execution is wide, but experts say it is bridgeable with the right approach.
Overcoming the fear of starting
Jami Attenberg, a bestselling author and founder of the 1000 Words of Summer writing project, notes that people often hesitate because they do not know how to begin. She emphasizes that writing is a form of artistic expression and a cathartic release for many. Marita Golden, a novelist and co-founder of the Zora Neale Hurston/Richard Wright Foundation, adds that aspiring writers are frequently stopped by negative self-talk. Many fear that if they start, they will not finish, which could reinforce their insecurities or invite criticism.
Christopher Moore, a novelist, suggests that the difficulty lies in the unknown. He notes that once you have written one book, you know how to do it, but the first time is daunting. To combat this, Attenberg recommends writing yourself a letter to recall your original intentions and why finishing the project matters to you. This exercise helps clarify your motivation before you commit to a timeline.
Practical steps to begin
Experts agree that reading is a non-negotiable part of the process. It helps writers identify their influences, understand genre conventions, and learn the tools other authors use. Attenberg starts every workday by reading someone else’s writing to stay inspired. Moore advises doing research that goes beyond simple facts. He suggests looking at what has been written before on your subject to find gaps where you can create new characters and stories.
One of the most effective strategies for overcoming procrastination is to set a specific start date. Moore warns against the trap of endless preparation, such as adding more details to an outline. He advises that on that chosen date, you must begin writing, even if it is only a single paragraph. Taking a writing class can also provide structure and connect you with a community of supportive peers.
Writing the first draft
When it comes to the actual writing, Moore advises against rewriting as you go. He says people often get stuck because their expectations are too high. Instead, you should allow yourself to write until you have a full first draft. Once you have a document that vaguely resembles a book, you can go back and shape it. He notes that no one will ever know that the initial version was rough.
If you get stuck on plot or character development, Moore suggests writing a scene out of order. Giving your characters a chance to talk or make decisions can provide guidance on where the story should go next. The goal is to keep moving forward. As Golden states, writing a book is a demanding and scary personal challenge, but it is also a powerful act of imagination and self-affirmation that many find irresistible.
Source: The Guardian
