Trick or Treat: Choose Tricks This Year to Become a Prolific Writer
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Dream of becoming a bestselling author? Money raining into your account, traveling across the world to meet your fans, and your words being quoted on social media... The influence. Your thoughts matter.
Or you might romanticize the life of a brilliant writer. Imagine sitting at an oak desk in front of the window, where you can see the sun rising in the serene forest, sipping a morning coffee, and typing away effortlessly while small birds chirp outside and your cats snooze melodically on your lap. Away from the chaotic world. You are happy. You feel calm. You are finally doing what you are really passionate about.
It can happen. Whatever you envision, it is possible (unless that involves time traveling or something humanly or scientifically impossible).
Make. It. Happen.
Now, let's dig into the hows. Here are five spooky tricks.
1. Playfully play the part. Wear the costume.
Self-efficacy is about how much someone believes in their ability to do what it takes to reach certain goals (Bandura, 1977, 1986, 1997). Constant rejections, criticisms, and failed attempts can push anyone to the edge, creating a false belief that they are not good enough. Life is supposed to be this miserable? One might wonder. Strangers' opinions may feel like that is who you are...
To get out of this loop, we sometimes gotta act like we are acing it. "Playfully" is a keyword to play the role of an accomplished writer so that we can enjoy the process and keep going for the long haul. Ask, "How would a bestseller spend the morning?" Explore the routine and habits that legends swear by. Over time, this independent "theatre" would help regain your confidence and make your dream more tangible.
2. Ally with someone who would appreciate your work
Motivational speakers often dominate popular media, leading the public to believe that we should never give up and that pursuing our dreams is highly encouraged. But business can be brutal. Most editors never respond to submissions, and job applicants frequently get ghosted. The traditional path of attending a good college and transitioning into a stable career is becoming increasingly outdated. Even highly-skilled, well-educated individuals often have to beg for a position that they are overqualified for. It is not fair. Yet, that is a reality.
While we sometimes need to be practical to pay the bills, we should also keep in mind that our well-being is of utmost importance. So, walk away from people or organizations that treat others like mere props. In the end, it is a vicious cycle to accept a job that could make you sick mentally and physically, wreaking havoc on your healthcare costs and maybe your personal relationships.
3. Instill the sense of achievement
Task yourself with an assignment. Like "finish writing one chapter today" or "write 1000 words every day this week". When you have plenty of proofs that you are the person who is capable of attaining your goal, petty reviews, unsolicited opinions from others, or even self-doubt cannot stop you from making the most of it in one life. With uncertainty looming, we shouldn't wait until awards or rankings come our way to feel great about ourselves. Also, it is none of their business how many time we have tried to achive the goal. We all deserve unlimited oppotunities to feel whole.
4. Write, write, write
The one thing common across prolific authors is that they write. A lot. Some hit 2000 words a day. Others scribble when ideas pop up. Sometimes, let the draft sit for months, or cram the manuscript within 30 days. No matter which method they follow, all of them complete their work eventually. And they do it all over again. And again. Take Joanne Fluke, the queen of cozy mysteries. She has published over 50 books and counting. The king of horror? Stephen King has written more than 80 books! In front of these legends, no one can complain why the first novel does not make it to the Top 10. No shortcut. No magic wands. Working hard and getting the job done remains the key to building an unwavering career as an author. Be the writer who writes.
5. Spell psychology tricks
If you live with a dog, you might be familiar with conditioning techniques for dog training. It is actually a useful method to trick our brains into being more productive, efficient, and effective. Ditch bad habits that hinder your progress. Reward ourselves when we finish writing the first draft. Create associations, such as a cup of tea on the table, which serves as a cue to start writing. Block the time for "training". Once writing becomes a habit and part of your daily routine, you won't need willpower to sit at your desk. Writing (or typing) will become second nature.
Full disclosure: I am currently paving my way to become an established author and working on my very first novel now by using these tricks. If you can't wait to read my animal detective story, go grab a copy of my cat memoir in the meantime. The stunning tuxedo cat would lead you to the whimsical feline tales and empowering animal advocacy.