Some tips for new authors

The greatest advice I can give to a new author is this: If you love writing, then do it. Do it because it makes you happy. And just ignore negativity.

That’s the best I have for you aspiring authors. Because there is going to be negativity. You can’t stop or prevent it, so you just have to live with it. Don’t let it get to you. I’ve heard that there are some reviews who are purposely cruel with their reviews because they are trying to be helpful by ’thickening’ the new author’s skin. And then there are just the bullies or dream smashers who are out to hurt you. Ignore all these people. Write for your own enjoyment. This is tough to do if you’re trying to provide for yourself and/or your family, but its something that you must do.

Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t be a writer. That your book isn’t good. Or that you aren’t a good author. Their opinion really doesn’t matter. That may sound really mean or arrogant, but unless you want to let every bad critique get to you and make you feel worthless, this is the best attitude to have. Just live your dream. Its is what you want that is important. Don’t let other people dictate your life.

Here are a few post from other authors about the negativity that authors can/will face and a few ideas on how to deal with it:

http://legendsofwindemere.com/2014/02/08/paranoia-in-self-publishing/#comments

http://shannonathompson.com/2014/02/09/the-era-of-hating-and-how-it-affects-readers/

http://readfulthingsblog.com/2014/01/07/the-legacy-you-leave-a-few-thoughts-on-literary-hate-packs/

http://dupler.org/2013/06/26/how-to-handle-a-bad-review/

http://jadereyner.com/2013/08/21/bullying-on-goodreads/