Congratulations on taking the first step to sharing your work with the world. If you have an idea for a book but are unsure how to get started, or you’re simply feeling stuck, keep reading for practical advice on how to find a rhythm that works for you.
Read What You Like to Write
Immerse yourself in the kinds of books you want to write, especially contemporary works, as you’re seeking to become a contemporary writer yourself. Reading widely in your genre will help you refine your voice and develop new ideas for your own writing. It will also help you stay in tune with the current literary landscape and understand genre trends and expectations.
Establish a Writing Routine.
From there, I’d establish a routine that works for you. Choose a schedule that fits your lifestyle, whether it’s morning writing sessions with coffee or late-night bursts of creativity. The goal is to create a habit that feels natural and manageable. Don’t be too hard on yourself if you miss a day or if your routine needs tweaking. What matters is that you keep showing up, as more on the page means more to work with. You’ll find that, as you commit to the process, your writing will improve substantially.
Set Short- and Long-Term Goals
Breaking your writing into smaller milestones can make the process less overwhelming. Set daily goals, like a specific word count or page number, and long-term goals, such as completing a chapter by a certain date. This keeps you moving forward without feeling stuck. The key is to be flexible. Adjust as needed, but always keep your eyes on the bigger picture.
Write First, Edit Later
Some people like to edit as they write, but others find that constant revisions prove stressful and slow them down. Ultimately, the best approach is the one that works for you. If you find yourself getting stuck in the editing stage too early, try focusing on getting words down first and saving the editing for later. The real work happens in revision, and you’ll have plenty of time to shape your draft into the final product.
Plan for Publishing
As the writing process often takes longer than expected, having a plan for publication can help you stay motivated. Research different publishing options early on, but don’t feel rushed to decide, as it all depends on your goals and needs as a writer. Feel free to check out this article that compares hybrid, traditional, and self-publishing. I would also recommend querying developmental editors early since they can book up fast.
If you’re looking for guidance along the way, please reach out with any questions you might have. I’ll be glad to guide you throughout the process.
Cypress Editorial 
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