How to survive as writer

[A.J.]

It's tough being a writer. There are so many hurdles and it's easy to crumble with rejection. What Qualities should you develop? http://www.awaines.blogspot.co.uk/201...

[Arabella]

How to survive as a writer? don't give up your day job!

[Crissy]

Arabella, I have friends who make a living off their writing, and don't have a day job. That's where I am heading too!

[A.L.]

I would love to be able to give up my day job and write but I am realistic that if it does happen it won't be yet. It never ceases to amaze me how many writers pop one book on Kindle then complain they aren't a best seller in a week.

Be patient.
Be realistic - it is good to dream but it may well never happen.
Write more.
Network but don't just talk about the books.

[Glyn]

Get a thick skin. Not everyone will like your work. It's ok.
Don't give up. If you're a writer, write.
Edit, edit, edit. Then pay someone to edit it again.

[Arabella]

I will hopefully retire in a five years. I am hoping I will have enough books pubbed to give me enough extra income to survive retirement! So I don't have to eat dog food!

[Crissy]

Exactly...
just because it hasn't happened yet doesn't mean it won't happen.

And don't plan on one book making you a million. Hugh Howie had a small following through his Molly Fyde books before Wool took off. He had a platform to build on. We all need that.