They say there is a book inside us all. So why do most writers fail to complete their novels? Why do they fall by the wayside when other writers gallop across the finishing line?

Here I will list some of the common roadblocks that effectively hinder a writer in finding success, either as a freelance writer or on their own pieces of work.

Procrastination – Some writers take more time concentrating on the process of writing than the actual activity. Although it is essential to join various forums, discussion groups and attend seminars, I have met writers who spend more time thinking about what the writing process entails than actually writing. I believe this is a subconscious way of procrastinating out of fear that what you write is not going to be perfect. After all, you can spend hours reading about how to structure a good storyline and create enthralling characters, but if you do not put that knowledge into action, you will still have a blank page.

Writing Routine – Get into a daily routine that works best for you. In other words, what time of the day are you most productive? Are you a morning person or a night owl? Begin the routine that is realistic, and keep to it. You have to be self-motivated and think of your writing career as you would any other job. If you want to be a successful writer, then you will find a way and make it happen. There is not going to be a boss pushing you to complete the work, you have to motivate yourself. Ask yourself the following questions to determine if you are following a routine. Do I have a definite plan of action? How many hours am I completely focused on my writing? Am I actually writing or is my mind wandering? What are my long and short-term objectives?

Are You Willing to Put the Hard Work In? – There is no shortcut to gaining the success you want as a writer. There is a long process to complete and, unless you are willing to put the hard work in, then you are most likely not going to get the results you want. Think of your writing career as a business, and with any business you have to have a business plan. Pick the genre of your writing carefully and create the best content for that genre. To stand out amongst your writing competitors is your only option. Read, read and read some more on how to market yourself and your work. What are you willing to sacrifice to make this possible? Are you willing to accept the pain of rejection? You may need to sacrifice leisure time or sleep. Turn the maybe’s and should have’s into have to’s.

Many people fantasise about the romantic notion of being a novelist, but the reality is far from idealistic. Ask yourself why you want to become a writer. Do you have a passion for it? Write down the reasons you first decided to become a writer, and refer to them when you hit stumbling blocks such as self-doubt, rejection or lack of inspiration.

Believe in yourself and create that masterpiece that is inside you.