Think you have what it takes to become a well-published writer? Here are some of the signs that you just might be on your way.
You’ve done your butt-in-chair time. You’ve logged in long hours, from early mornings to late nights. You write…you write…and then you write some more.
You’ve put in your reading time. You know how important it is to do lots of reading. You don’t read like an amateur: You read like a writer. You know your genre.
You’ve done your class/critique group time. You found a mentor, a critique partner, or a great class. And you listened with an open mind, tried new ideas, and learned new writing techniques.
You know your industry etiquette. You’ve been to writing conferences to get the inside scoop. When it comes to cover and query letters, you know what to include and what to leave out.
You’re totally over that whole “be published to get published” thing. No bitterness for you! You’ve seen lots of new writers get published—and you plan to be one soon.
Your author website is polished and professional. You’re the kind of person who doesn’t leave things to chance. You know the publishing industry is crowded, and you want every possible advantage. So you’ve got a great author website that works as your online business card.
You know how to spot a shady operation. Unscrupulous companies are out there, dying to take your money. But you can smell a con artist a mile away. When in doubt, you turn to experienced connections who can offer smart advice.
You’ve mastered the seven signs of a strong submission strategy. You approach your writing submissions with the same seriousness that you approach your writing craft. Submitting work isn’t something you do once in a while or when you feel like it. You’re organized, you have a plan, and you stick to it.
You don’t let rejections deter you. You recognize rejections for what they are: A rite of passage that isn’t going to end. You don’t mind getting rejection letters because they are signs that you’re heading in the right direction.
You’re not going to give up; You’ll find a way. You are committed. Yes, there are days when you feel like quitting—even when you think you don’t have a shot at getting published. But you always manage to pick yourself up and try again. And if what you’re doing isn’t working—you’ll learn, adapt, and find another way.
Closing notes:
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