What are some of the obstacles writers – especially new ones – face? Here are the Top 10 in my opinion.
- Self-Confidence: The Number 1 obstacle, I believe, is yourself. It’s hard to believe in yourself when you’re getting rejection after rejection, but hang in there. Revise and edit, revise some more, and eventually you’ll succeed.
- Refusal to Edit: Ego can be just as bad as low self-esteem, however. When you feel your work cannot be improved, you’re fooling yourself.
- Lack of Support: Find yourself a network of other writers, whether in real life or online, and get the support everybody needs. Your friends and family aren’t likely to understand or sympathize with your problems.
- Lack of Time: Of course, this can be corrected. You usually don’t “find” the time to write. You make the time.
- Poor Query Letter: Your query letter must be the most highly-polished piece of writing you’ve done, or it’s not likely to attract an agent or editor.
- Poor Cover Letter: Ditto the cover letter. Check not just for spelling and grammar, but for a polished blurb and enticing “hook.”
- Lack of Skill: Writing is an art, but it’s also a science that can be learned. Read, read, read, and read some more so you know how it’s done.
- Lack of Conflict: Your manuscript (or story) must be one obstacle after another thrown at your POV character or it’s not going to be interesting enough to keep the reader’s interest.
- Lack of Plot: Many writers have a great idea, but no real plot or story. Make sure you’ve got both before you dig in and get started.
- Poor Idea: Other writers don’t even have a good idea. They just have a series of scenes playing in their head. Make sure your idea is a good one before you start plotting.
Of course, you may have your own “Top 10” list. What do you feel are the biggest obstacles a writer faces?