How to Become a First-Time Author

How to Become a First-Time Author

The journey to becoming a first-time author is different for everyone. For me, it involved letting go of the idea that I’d ever get published. I know this sounds counter-intuitive.

The temptation to imitate our heroes is one the biggest stumbling blocks for writers.

Here’s the secret to becoming a first-time author: it’s like dating. When you don’t care if she says yes . . . she says yes.

When you’re not concerned with what the publishing world wants (and I mean, truly not concerned) you are free to write with the wildness and freedom that the world is craving.

Embrace the paradox.

By not worrying about being an author, you are on your way to becoming one.

 

Learn more about marrying the wildness of your imagination to the rigor of structure in The 90-Day Novel, The 90-Day Memoir, or The 90-Day Screenplay workshops.

Alan Watt with L.A. hills behind

by Alan Watt

About the author

Alan Watt is the author of the international bestseller Diamond Dogs, winner of France’s Prix Printemps, and the founder of LA Writers’ Lab. A teacher for over two decades, Alan believes stories are not owned but discovered — and that every writer has a voice worth sharing. His workshops and 90-Day Novel method have guided thousands of writers to transform raw ideas into finished works, with humor, compassion, and a deep respect for the creative process.