If you're a new author, I'm hosting a free challenge - 5 Days To Plot Your First Novel. It runs 5-9 October 2020 and will be a lot of fun. If you'd like to take part, go to www.PlotYourNovel.com and sign up :)

What's in this episode?

You want to write a novel, in fact it’s something you’ve wanted to do for as long as you can remember, so what stops you writing?

A lack of confidence is usually your main stumbling block. You doubt your competency, you're worried that people will think the actions and views reflecting in your characters actually belong to you.

You may also have been told by friends and family that it's a waste of time, and that can definitely knock your confidence.

The other stumbling block is time. You've been told you need to write for at least two hours a day, or write a minimum of 1,500 words per writing session and that simply isn't possible for you right now.

How can you overcome these barriers? Be patient. Confidence, craft and time all require a bit of grace, so give yourself some.

Ultimately, however, the choice is yours. Do you want to write?

Links mentioned in the episode:

• On Writing, Stephen King

Associated blog post:

• https://emmadhesi.com/blog-post/what-stops-you-writing/

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