Hardest Part of Writing?

Branch,
What do you find is the hardest part of writing?

Amy G., St. Louis, MO

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Amy, thanks for your question. Every aspiring writer soon discovers as they proceed down the path of authorship that they must wear at least three hats if they intend to put their work before the public for consideration, critique and consumption:

1. Writer 
2. Editor
3. Marketer. 

One or more of these roles can become difficult because all three tasks must be embraced and worked.

It is seldom that the individual can accomplish these three without help and assistance along the way. These three prongs of activity for the author form a strong foundation which can lead to success, or failure (whatever those two look like to you). All three however are necessary and so it is incumbent you know your strengths in these three areas and you know where you
will need help, either voluntary or paid.

To be successful with readers, you as the writer (author) must connect on some level with your audience. Your readers must want to read your work and keep coming back for more. For most writers this means their work must have a readable quality to it which makes an emotional, psychological, economic, or social link between writer and reader. Your readers must identify with your ‘writing voice’ in such a way that they will read your work, buy your work and talk about your work to others.

I find that the editing process is the most time consuming and the most important. This is the part of the process where fine tuning or honing can and must take place. As an author you will learn that whatever shape or form your manuscript is in when it goes to final submission for publication is the exact final form it will be when returned as a book. Don’t short change yourself during the editing steps. Even if you edit your own work have someone, a professional editor/proof reader or others, proof it and give you feedback.

Of the three tasks we are discussing, the most important may be your role of marketer, if you are to be competitive in the public marketplace. Marketing can easily become a fulltime job even if you have a modicum of success. There are thousands of individuals and firms for hire to assist you in your marketing program, but as usual the more help you need, the more investment dollars you will need to allocate and spend.

The trail and trials of authorship, like most professions is long and arduous, but can be rewarding at every stage. Know what your skill sets are for these three areas and know where to find (and hire) qualified help to accomplish the tasks necessary to fulfill your writing dreams and goals.

All the best,
Branch