Top Five Worst Pieces of Advice on Writing

Writing is for some, more of life than the blood in their veins.  It is a calling.  It is a curse.  It is a song in the ears of those who put pen to paper and fingers to keyboard.  Yet with such a beautiful connection to a driving passion, many writers endure terrible counsel and suggestions on their beloved pursuit.  Avoid those recommendations.  Read on and identify the Top Five Worst Pieces of Advice on Writing.

Success can only be measured by dollars – Success is measured by whatever goal the writer deems fit.  It should not only be dollars if that is your choosing but the completion of the story you are seeking to write.  Never allow your passion to not be part of the equation and the scale.
Self-publishing is not a legitimate option to consider – Literally everyday a new self-published author enters the literary world and rocks it on its side.  Traditional publishing is still a great future but self-publishing is to be respected and revered as well.
To write, you must suffer – Uh no.  Many great writers lead and have led equally great lives.
Write what’s popular – Write the story that is begging to be written inside of you. Only if you are writing for a publication that gives you assignments and deadlines should you be corralled into writing what is currently popular.  Otherwise, write and determine your audience through the writing process.  If you only write what’s popular, the lack of passion will show through.
Give up – Every writer suffers set-backs.  But he or she is never to give up.  The only time a writer fails is when they stop trying.