303: Top 5 Mistakes New Authors Make | Azul Terronez

Insights with Azul Terronez

Entering the world of authorship can be akin to embarking on an odyssey fraught with both excitement and trepidation. For many new authors, the path to publishing is uncharted, filled with potential pitfalls and learning curves.

I share invaluable insights that shine a light on the common mistakes new authors often encounter and provide strategic actions to not just sidestep these missteps but to triumphantly leap over them.

Procrastinating The Pen

The adage “Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today” holds particular resonance for authors. I emphasize the fallacy of believing that the “perfect time” will manifest in the future. The key is not waiting for more time, but rather, making judicious use of the present. This requires a disciplined approach to writing with clear goals and dedicated time management — a prowess every author should cultivate.

The Late Marketing Awakening

In the modern literary arena, marketing your book is akin to fueling a plane for takeoff — it requires a lengthy runway. Unfortunately, many authors wait until their manuscript is complete to commence marketing. I recommend that marketing should begin concurrently with writing, viewing it as an ongoing conversation with potential readers about the process, the content, and the inspiration behind the book.

Forgoing Audience Engagement

Creating a connection with readers doesn’t start after the book is published; it starts with the author’s first word on the page. Cultivating a community or nurturing an existing audience is paramount throughout the writing process. Whether through social media, email lists, or writing groups, this engagement is about growing an audience that resonates with your message — and it takes time and consistent effort.

The Deadline Dilemma

Deadlines are the scaffolding of the book writing process; without them, the structure can falter. I advise authors to set not just one, but multiple deadlines – for drafting, editing, publishing, and launching. A clear timeline isn’t just a measure of progress; it is a declaration of intent and a commitment that can steer the entire process toward completion.

Battling the Impostor Syndrome Beast

The biggest adversary for most authors doesn’t lie in external criticisms, but in their internal dialogue — the voice that sows seeds of doubt and fear. Addressing impostor syndrome is not about erasing these thoughts but acknowledging and pushing through them. Being aware of the presence of such fears during the writing process is crucial, as is the reminder that the path to authorship doesn’t require perfection, but the courage to share one’s voice with the world.

Embracing the Authorial Ascent

I don’t just point out the stumbling blocks; I offer a bridge to cross them. Beyond recognizing these mistakes, authors are encouraged to engage with supportive communities, like Authors Who Lead, and to realize the importance of collaborative effort in the solitary act of writing.

For those on the precipice of authoring their first book, or seasoned writers navigating the tides of a new project, take this to heart. Embrace the journey with clarity, connect to your audience early, march to the beat of defined deadlines, and wield your authenticity against the specters of doubt. You are at the helm, and the story — your story — is ready to soar.

Join us again next week for more captivating insights from influential authors and publishing experts. Remember to subscribe to Authors Who Lead and visit our website for more show notes and past interviews.

That’s all for this week. If you have a message inside of you that needs to be written, today is the day to start. Don’t delay—take action.