Writing with Pressure

Initially, I believed that daily writing was essential for success. However, mere consistency doesn’t guarantee growth. While it's crucial to show up regularly, it’s unnecessary to publish everything immediately. Writing is more than just putting words on a page; it involves brainstorming, drafting, and allowing your imagination to flow. Embrace moments of writer’s block and develop strategies to navigate them.

Neglecting Reading

If your goal is to plateau as a writer, then steer clear of books and other written materials. This is counterproductive, as exposure to diverse writing styles and techniques is vital for improvement. Challenge yourself by delving into genres or topics that are unfamiliar to you, whether it’s science fiction, astrophysics, or philosophical autobiographies.

Skipping the Editing Phase

The first draft is merely a starting point. Once you’ve written down your thoughts, resist the urge to publish without refining your work. Allow your writing to rest, return with fresh eyes, and edit comprehensively. For example, which sounds more engaging: "Write freely" or "Write until your coffee cools and your legs feel numb"?

Focusing Solely on Outcomes

In today’s world, it’s easy to view ourselves as mere statistics or handles. When writing becomes solely about achieving tangible rewards, you risk losing the joy of the craft. If I had approached writing only as a way to earn money, I would have missed out on invaluable friendships and insights from tools like Grammarly or Hemingway. These experiences are the true victories worth cherishing.

Setting Hard Deadlines

I’m an advocate for setting deadlines to boost productivity. Deadlines work well for projects that might otherwise stagnate, like writing a book or launching a side hustle. However, if you aspire to be a passionate writer, recognize that this craft is a lifelong journey without a defined end date. Instead, create flexible goals, such as publishing regularly or seeking new platforms, to keep your skills sharp.