Dear Aspiring Authors,

So, you’ve got a story in your head. Maybe you’ve even jotted it down on paper, keyed it up on a typewriter, or computer. Whatever your preferred method may be, you feel this longing deep inside your soul to share this story with others. You crave to see your story sitting on your bookshelf amongst your favorite novels; you yearn for readers to fangirl over your characters, for your characters to live on forever in print. Whether you’re seven years old or seventy, I want you to know that there are means available to achieve that dream. You can publish your work, if you’re willing to work hard and persevere.

This, however, is not a guarantee that you’ll be swimming in money after publishing. This is also not a guarantee that a well-known publishing house will pick up your manuscript. Yes, those things may happen, but don’t allow those expectations to cripple your love for writing. If you dream of being an author, focus instead of what makes you an author–writing.

The best first step in becoming a published author is to… *big shocker* write. Write your heart out. Write the truths people need to hear. And, when that final period is written, you’ll be an author.

No matter what you and others may think of your first draft, remember that it’s only the first draft. It can be tweaked. It can be edited. This is by no means the finished product. Be open to criticism. Be open to the concept of alpha and beta readers. Keep a scrap file for lines or paragraphs that end up being cut and save them for later. You may be able to use them somewhere else.

The one thing you should never, ever do is give up. If God has laid it on your heart to write, then pursue writing. You may end up being traditionally published or self-publish your books. There’s neither a right or wrong way. Don’t let self-doubt or fear of readers not liking your work get in the way. Everyone has a story in them. If you feel the urge to let it out, write it down. Then let it be heard.

Love you guys. Never give up! God bless,

-Allyson 😀