Secrets to Getting Published

Some people believe there are secrets to getting a book published and if you know those secrets, you’ll soon become a published author. Is that true?

Unfortunately, there are no “secrets” to getting published. Those who’ve found publication success have done so through hard work, dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to continue learning.

Hard Work

Writing a novel is hard work. Very few, if any, writers sit down with an idea, pound out a manuscript, and have it immediately accepted. Most writers struggle to get through the first draft, rewrite and revise many times, study the market, and then submit their work. Sometimes, writers submit manuscripts for years before getting an acceptance.

Day after day, you have to be willing to put in the hours it takes to write a novel. Some days it goes smoothly and other days it might feel as if you are beating your head against the wall. Being a writer means that you sit yourself in a chair and work because creating characters, building story worlds, and plotting a story arc all take effort.

Dedication

You have to be dedicated to your writing. You need to be able to carve out time each day to write if you want to finish writing a novel. Sometimes, that means skipping television shows or other activities to finish a novel, especially if you’re on a deadline with an editor. Most writers use their free time to write. They spend whatever time they can working on their book. You must have the dedication it takes to see a novel all the way through if you want to see your name in print.

Perseverance

The difference between an unpublished and a published writer is perseverance. Some days it’s tempting to “give up writing” but you have to trudge through the days that test your creativity and patience. When you’re ready to submit you have to persevere when the rejections come. Rejection is part of the writing process and happens to all writers. You have to believe in your work and yourself and continue to push through it all.

Willing to Continue Learning

It’s important to hone your craft. You can do this through online classes, reading books, and attending writing conferences. Keep abreast of changes in the industry by researching the market, subscribing to industry newsletters, and reading blogs. Never stop learning because all writers can and must improve their writing skills.

When all is said and done, if you seek publication and are willing to put forth the effort, you will realize your dream. You can become a published author. Don’t give up on your dream.