Top Five Mistakes New Authors Make

New Authorship Is A Journey   

Diving into the world of authorship is truly like beginning a grand adventure—thrilling, a bit daunting, and transformative. For many new authors, the journey to getting their book published feels like navigating uncharted territory, peppered with both unexpected challenges and rewarding milestones.

Let’s explore some key advice that can help illuminate the common pitfalls new authors encounter, and show you how to not only avoid these snags but leap over them with confidence.

Write Today—Not Tomorrow

Ever heard the saying “Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today”? It’s especially true for writers. Waiting for the “perfect time” to write is a myth. The truth is, that mastering your writing craft requires making the most of the now. This calls for disciplined writing habits, setting clear goals, and managing your time effectively—skills every successful author needs to hone.

Begin Marketing Sooner Rather Than Later

In the literary world, marketing your book is akin to prepping a plane for takeoff—it needs a long runway. Too many writers delay marketing until their manuscript is wrapped up. Start marketing from day one; treat it as an ongoing conversation with future readers about your process, the heart of your content, and what inspires you.

Engage With Your Audience From the Start

Building a relationship with your readers doesn’t start on the book launch day; it starts with the first word you write. Whether it’s through social media, email newsletters, or local writing groups, engaging with your audience early and often is key. It’s all about growing a community that resonates with and supports your journey.

Set Strategic Deadlines

Without deadlines, writing a book can feel like building a house without a blueprint. It’s essential to set not just one, but multiple checkpoints—drafting, editing, publishing, and launching. These deadlines aren’t just markers of progress; they’re commitments to your project’s completion.

Face the Impostor Syndrome

One of the toughest challenges authors face isn’t criticism from others—it’s their own inner critic. Battling the ‘impostor syndrome’ means recognizing those self-doubting thoughts and pushing through them. Remember, writing isn’t about perfection. It’s about the courage to share your unique voice with the world.

Lean on a Supportive Community

Highlighting problems isn’t enough—I’m here to help you cross these hurdles. That’s why I recommend getting involved in supportive writing communities like Authors Who Lead. If you’re looking for a space to connect with fellow writers and find encouragement, check out our Dedicated Author membership and community programs here.

Whether you’re just starting or are a seasoned writer tackling a new project, remember these tips. Take the reins of your writing journey with purpose and enthusiasm, connect early and deeply with your audience, and let your authentic voice shine through.

If you’re ready to dive deeper, subscribe to Authors Who Lead for more helpful resources and interviews.

If you’ve got a story begging to be written, don’t wait another day. The perfect time to start is now. Let’s get writing!

beginning book writer

New Authorship Is A Journey   

Diving into the world of authorship is truly like beginning a grand adventure—thrilling, a bit daunting, and transformative. For many new authors, the journey to getting their book published feels like navigating uncharted territory, peppered with both unexpected challenges and rewarding milestones.

Let’s explore some key advice that can help illuminate the common pitfalls new authors encounter, and show you how to not only avoid these snags but leap over them with confidence.

Write Today—Not Tomorrow

Ever heard the saying “Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today”? It’s especially true for writers. Waiting for the “perfect time” to write is a myth. The truth is, that mastering your writing craft requires making the most of the now. This calls for disciplined writing habits, setting clear goals, and managing your time effectively—skills every successful author needs to hone.

Begin Marketing Sooner Rather Than Later

In the literary world, marketing your book is akin to prepping a plane for takeoff—it needs a long runway. Too many writers delay marketing until their manuscript is wrapped up. Start marketing from day one; treat it as an ongoing conversation with future readers about your process, the heart of your content, and what inspires you.

Engage With Your Audience From the Start

Building a relationship with your readers doesn’t start on the book launch day; it starts with the first word you write. Whether it’s through social media, email newsletters, or local writing groups, engaging with your audience early and often is key. It’s all about growing a community that resonates with and supports your journey.

Set Strategic Deadlines

Without deadlines, writing a book can feel like building a house without a blueprint. It’s essential to set not just one, but multiple checkpoints—drafting, editing, publishing, and launching. These deadlines aren’t just markers of progress; they’re commitments to your project’s completion.

Face the Impostor Syndrome

One of the toughest challenges authors face isn’t criticism from others—it’s their own inner critic. Battling the ‘impostor syndrome’ means recognizing those self-doubting thoughts and pushing through them. Remember, writing isn’t about perfection. It’s about the courage to share your unique voice with the world.

Lean on a Supportive Community

Highlighting problems isn’t enough—I’m here to help you cross these hurdles. That’s why I recommend getting involved in supportive writing communities like Authors Who Lead. If you’re looking for a space to connect with fellow writers and find encouragement, check out our Dedicated Author membership and community programs here.

Whether you’re just starting or are a seasoned writer tackling a new project, remember these tips. Take the reins of your writing journey with purpose and enthusiasm, connect early and deeply with your audience, and let your authentic voice shine through.

If you’re ready to dive deeper, subscribe to Authors Who Lead for more helpful resources and interviews.

If you’ve got a story begging to be written, don’t wait another day. The perfect time to start is now. Let’s get writing!

beginning book writer
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Azul Terronez

Azul Terronez is a bestselling author, speaker and book coach who has helped hundreds of authors write and publish their books. He is the go-to book coach to influential figures such as Pat Flynn of Smart Passive Income and Jadah Sellner, co-founder of Simple Green Smoothies.

After 24 years of contemplation, a student's question finally sparked Terronez's passion for writing and he set a bold goal to write his first book in 30 days. This led to the publication of "The Art of Apprenticeship", which garnered the attention of a TEDx organizer and led to a TEDx talk with over 3.1 million views.

Terronez has since become a sought-after speaker and has been recognized as a Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author. He is dedicated to helping other leaders write and publish their books, opening up new opportunities for them, just as it did for him.