Writing Isn’t A Get-Rich-Quick Scheme
By: Brian Kurian
Tags: Life Lessons, Writing, Creativity, Short Story, Inspiration

Writing isn’t a get-rich-quick scheme. Chances are you won’t publish a single piece of content and earn millions of dollars from it. I know many of us think if we publish the novel we’ve been working on or write that one fantastic blog post, which is sure to go viral, we’ll be set for life.

Thousands of followers, tons of royalties, adoration, fame, travel the world, the whole kit-n-caboodle. Right?

Wrong.

I’m sorry to burst your bubble, but it’s highly unlikely any of this will happen. At least, overnight, that is.

Many of us writers have unrealistic expectations because of the internet. The Internet makes all sorts of things possible now that wasn’t possible 20 years ago. Yet, the internet can’t force people to read and enjoy your writing.

You have to put in the work. You’ll have to continue working to hone your craft. You’ll have to write quality content (lots of it) that people will want to read.

The internet and social media platforms will help you market your work, but you’ll need actually to utilize those platforms intelligently.

I’ve Adopted A Slow And Steady Approach To Writing

I’ve had my blog for over a year and a half now. I’ve had my highs and lows. I’ve had to work tirelessly to build up my following, which is up to almost 4,000 people now.

When I first started blogging, I didn’t know the first thing about writing quality content. I didn’t realize that websites like Unsplash and Pixabay existed. Hell, there were countless things I didn’t know in the beginning, but I wish I did.

Here’s a little secret about me. I’m an active Type A personality by nature. I tend to want everything to happen quickly. Like right this very second! But I’ve learned to adopt a slow and steady approach to writing.

I read, research, write, edit, publish, coach others, and improve a little each day. Rinse and repeat — day after day.

I can tell you without the shadow of a doubt that writing is a tough business, and I’ve seen countless bloggers come and go. There were several times where I also wanted to quit. I wanted to walk away from it all. Because of how difficult it was to find the type of success I was looking for.

People get fed up when they spend hours writing a story, and it flops. I get it. It’s infuriating. Confusing. Depressing. All of the above. Welcome to the world of being a writer. It’s an emotional roller coaster, and it’s a ride that not everyone can handle being on.

A helpful Youtube video for all aspiring writers.

Why Do You Want To Be A Writer?

You have to have a profound reason why. Why do you want to be a writer? What are your goals? Where do you see yourself five years from now as you continue down your writing path?

I’m a firm believer that if your intentions are pure, you’ll find a way to achieve your goals. If you want your writing to provide your readers with value, then people will gravitate towards your content. When you want your writing to make a difference in other people’s lives, it’ll be evident your heart is in the right place.

On the flip side, if you’re writing to earn a quick, easy buck, you’ll find out rather fast that you’re in the wrong line of work. If you’re here to shove your writing in other people’s faces demanding they read your masterpiece, then I’m sorry, most people probably won’t want to read it. People can sense when a piece of writing isn’t genuine or when it’s forced.

Readers can also tell when a writer half-assed a piece of content to make a quick buck. Don’t be that guy/girl. Pretty soon, you’ll develop a reputation, and it won’t be one that will do you any favors.

Be patient. Keep working hard to improve your writing skills. And enjoy the journey. It’s a phenomenal time to be a writer. Just don’t expect to get rich quick or be an overnight success.