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What are some of the obstacles writers – especially new ones – face? Here are the Top 10 in my opinion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Self-Confidence<\/strong>: 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.<\/li>
- Refusal to Edit<\/strong>: Ego can be just as bad as low self-esteem, however. When you feel your work cannot be improved, you’re fooling yourself.<\/li>
- Lack of Support<\/strong>: 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.<\/li>
- Lack of Time<\/strong>: Of course, this can be corrected. You usually don’t “find” the time to write. You make the time.<\/li>
- Poor Query Letter<\/strong>: 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.<\/li>
- Poor Cover Letter<\/strong>: Ditto the cover letter. Check not just for spelling and grammar, but for a polished blurb and enticing “hook.”<\/li>
- Lack of Skill<\/strong>: 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.<\/li>
- Lack of Conflict:<\/strong> 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.<\/li>
- Lack of Plot<\/strong>: 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.<\/li>
- Poor Idea<\/strong>: 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.<\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n
Of course, you may have your own “Top 10” list. What do you feel are the biggest obstacles a writer faces?<\/p>\n