by Patricia Watson

Created on: January 19, 2010   Last Updated: May 22, 2012

You were born to be a writer. Not just any writer, but a successful author who touches the lives of those who read your work. Dreams are necessary to inspire and drive us, but to catch a dream takes hard work.

Every writer starts their journey full of hope for success. Unfortunately, many aspiring writers give up before they catch their dream.  Your attitude towards yourself and others, will determine how far you take your writing career. It is important to be critical of your own writing pieces, but don't be overly judgmental. Writers can be harder on themselves than their readers.

How to chase your writing dreams

• Believe in your abilities

If you don't believe what you are writing, your readers won't buy it. Don't get discouraged by setbacks. Stay focused on your goals as a writer. You have the talent and you need to believe in yourself. Too many good writers just lay down their pens at the first roadblock. Rejection slips are the name of the game for any writer. Keep a positive outlook when you find a notice of rejection in the mailbox. Keep searching for a publisher that will accept your manuscript.

• Keep writing

Whether you are writing a novel, short story or poem, you need to set a daily schedule for your writing. If you don't produce a finished product, you will never reach your dream of being a writer. If you don't like your article or novel, rewrite it. The key to being a successful writer is to be able to take constructive criticism. When a publisher likes your work, but asks for revisions, make them. Don't get in a huff over small changes. Your goal is to become a published author and you will need to be flexible with your literary masterpieces.

• Don't rest on your laurels

You have arrived on the literary scene. Your first book has been published and the world is you oyster. Don't get complacent with your first successful sale. You will need to be working on your next assignment before you finish the first, to truly make a mark in the writing world. As your fan base grows, they will always be looking for your next book or poem. You need to keep writing new material to stay successful.

Chasing dreams of becoming a writer won't be easy. You have chosen a career that is very hard to succeed in. With determination and hard work, you will become a published author. Keep your ideas fresh and current and don't be afraid of criticism.  

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