First Steps to Becoming an Author
Have you ever dreamt of becoming an author? Do some ideas, some stories, fill you with excitement. Do you feel that with your stories and ideas, you can positively contribute to people’s lives. But every time you sit down to write something stops you. Doubts stand large and you think I Can’t do it?
The First Sentence is the Hardest
In the world of writing, the first steps are the hardest. They say the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Don’t be thwarted by the challenge, look at the last mile, not the first. Whether you’re brimming with ideas or struggling with writer’s block, these foundational steps will set you on the path to literary success. Every book needs a spark. Is it a gripping story idea, a life-changing experience that needs to be shared, or a desire to shed light on a particular topic? Brainstorm freely. Jot down ideas, characters, and anything that ignites your imagination.
2. Design Your Book’s Blueprint
It is best to have an outline of your thought process. Where do you want to take the reader? According to the genre in which you are writing, you will have to devise the best way to start your book. You can make a strict outline or have a loose draft of ideas—experiment and find what works for you. A well-crafted outline serves as a roadmap, guiding you through the writing process and ensuring a cohesive narrative.
3. Conquer the White Void: Embrace the Power of Habit
Develop a writing routine that fits your schedule, be it a dedicated hour each morning or stolen moments throughout the day. The key is to carve out writing time and stick to it.
Setting realistic goals, like a daily word count or a specific scene to complete, can be incredibly motivating.
4. Inspiration has no place and time
I will caution you not to be too harsh on yourself. It is a creative work how, when and where the flash will occur, you will not know. You must catch that moment and don’t miss it. The flash of creativity may not necessarily occur when you sit on your writing table. It may happen anywhere, walking on the road, clipping leaves of flower plants and working in the garden (like Virginia Wolf), on a page of an old book or dairy, in the headline of a newspaper, or while doing some mundane work of cooking or washing dishes. So creative flashes can occur at the most incredible time and place.
For oft, when on my couch I lie
In vacant or in pensive mood,
They flash upon that inward eye
Which is the bliss of solitude;
And then my heart with pleasure fills,
And dances with the daffodils.
Wrote Wordsworth
So is the spark of inspiration, which may flash and get ignited by any small hint or a serious incident.
This is just the beginning of your incredible authorial journey. With a clear vision, a roadmap, and a dedicated spirit, you’ll be well on your way to transforming your book idea into a captivating masterpiece. Remember, Punya Author Solutions is here to support you every step of the way. Stay tuned for further blog posts packed with helpful tips and tricks to guide you from aspiring writer to published author! Sign up for our newsletter to receive more tips, resources, and inspiration for aspiring authors. Let’s make your dream of becoming an author a reality!
A very helpful article.