4 Tips for Beating Discouragement in Your Writing Career

By Writerinterrupted @writerinterrupt

Sometimes I’m discouraged at the long road behind me and the longer road ahead as I seek to build a career as an author.

I’ve now sold my first article, but it’s been months and no new bites.

When I’m discouraged I find these tips helpful.

Pray for Perspective:

Re-evaluate my purpose and where I’m seeking affirmation. I can easily get just a little off course and find that my original goals to serve others and be used by God are forgotten. I desire praise from peers instead of God. Asking God to help me get back a right motivation is my first order of business.

Verse : store up your treasures. If you receive your reward…

Exercise the Muscle:

I heard it said that writing is a muscle so I try to exercise as often as I can, stretching and learning the art of the written word. I even practice areas I’m not confident in like persuasive letters to the editor. When I look at it like an asset that I must use or lose, I’m more generous. I write more letters, more encouraging short articles from my church ministry and all without feeling over extended. Exercising my writing muscle helps me be more energetic and creative.

Treasure Time:

Watching the careers of my author friends take off is exhilarating but also overwhelming. I’m reminded to treasure the days when writing is optional and I can wait for a whim. In slow writing seasons I schedule my business with equal amounts of family or hobby time. I hope it will create good habits for later while allowing me to take my writing seriously.

Talk Time: How do YOU  battle discouragement?