Challenges and Triumphs as a Writer: Overcoming Hurdles and Embracing Creativity
Every writer, regardless of how seasoned or new, faces challenges that can shape their work and their journey. This article explores the common struggles many writers encounter and how they navigate through them to find success.
What is Your Biggest Weakness as a Writer?
As a writer, I often find myself susceptible to the impact of others. This can be both a blessing and a curse—on one hand, it enriches me with diverse perspectives and styles; on the other, it can lead to a lack of consistency in my writing. For instance, when reading a new author, my writing style gets influenced unconsciously. To counter this, I limit myself to one author per project or I refrain from reading altogether. This helps me maintain a distinct voice and style, enhancing my uniqueness as a writer.
Creative Compulsions: Raising the Bar
Another challenge I face is an intense compulsion towards certain genres. Initially, I was conflicted between creating a dramatic erotica-tinged romance and a murder mystery. Eventually, the latter won, and my story took a twist into a murder mystery. This creativity can be both a liberating force and a daunting task, especially when navigating the intricacies of a new genre like high fantasy. The urge to include a murder mystery even in a high-fantasy setting showcases the profound influence of my literary background, which has profound implications on my work.
Personal Struggles: Time and Muse
Personal struggles such as finding the time and muse to write are staples in a writer’s life. Additionally, promoting your work and attracting readers can be an uphill battle. Despite publishing three books, the reality of a day job doesn't diminish my passion. It merely offers security, allowing me to focus on my craft without the constant pressure of relying on book sales for survival. Publishing books isn't just about the creative journey; it’s also about the financial realities. Indie authors often find themselves in a precarious financial situation due to the high costs of production.
The Road Less Traveled: Embracing the Indie Path
Operating as an indie author comes with its own set of challenges. Book piracy and the expectation of free works are significant hurdles. The costs of producing a book, whether in print or digital form, are substantial. For instance, my first book, at 470 pages, cost me ￡10 per copy. Time is also a precious commodity that must be managed wisely. On average, I dedicate at least 28 hours a week to writing and related activities, which at the minimum wage, amounts to over ￡11,000 a year. The financial investment in writing is considerable, and my passion must be continuously fed by hard work and dedication.
Conclusion
Every writer faces unique challenges, and finding one's way through them is a testament to perseverance and creativity. From dealing with external influences to overcoming creative compulsions and managing the financial demands of writing, the journey is filled with obstacles. Yet, it is these challenges that often shape the unique voice and style of an author, contributing to the rich tapestry of literature.