How to be a Part-Time Author

Feeling overwhelmed by the thought of writing a book while juggling everyday responsibilities? You’re not alone. In our fast-paced world, finding time to pursue a passion like writing can seem daunting. But the good news is, being a part-time author is not only possible, it’s a gateway to a world of self-expression and personal fulfillment. In this post, I’ll share five key strategies to help you succeed as a part-time author.

How to Thrive as a Part-Time Author

Set Realistic Goals

Starting your journey as a part-time author begins with setting realistic and achievable goals. It’s crucial to recognize your other commitments and limitations and shape your writing aspirations around them. Whether it’s committing to a specific word count each day or dedicating a set amount of time to marketing your work, make sure your goals fit comfortably into your schedule. Achievable goals not only make the writing process more manageable but also enhance your confidence as you meet them, paving the way for your success as a part-time author.

What are some realistic goals you’ve set for yourself in the past? How did they help you stay on track?

One resource I love is a website called 750 Words. The goal with them (totally free, by the way) is to help you write 750 words a day. This is a great way to start creating a writing habit. I use it every morning to brain-dump all the thoughts and ideas in my head.

Consistency is Key

Do One Thing Every Day (or Week or Month)

Consistency is crucial for anything, really, and writing a book is no exception. Carve out a small portion of your day, week, or month—whether it’s just 15 minutes or a full hour—to dedicate to your book. This could involve writing, organizing publishing resources, marketing, or any other related task. By consistently dedicating time to your project, you’ll see progress as those small efforts accumulate over time.

If daily habits don’t suit your lifestyle—remember, we want to be realistic here—opt for a weekly or monthly commitment. Set reminders on your phone or calendar to ensure you stay on track without feeling overwhelmed. This keeps your book project top-of-mind without becoming a source of stress.

Embrace Your Unique Journey

It’s easy to compare yourself to others, but every author’s journey is unique. Avoid comparing your beginning to someone else’s advanced stage. Focus on your own growth and celebrate your small victories. The path of a part-time author is about personal fulfillment and connecting with readers, not meeting an unrealistic standard set by others.

What small steps can you take this week to advance your book project? How do you plan to celebrate your progress?

Stay Connected to Your Purpose

Remember Your Why

As you write, publish, and launch your book, it’s crucial to remember why you started. Whether it’s your love for storytelling, a desire to share an empowering message, or the joy of entertaining readers, reconnecting with your “why” can fire up your passion. Reflect on the purpose behind your writing, and let it guide you through any obstacles you encounter.

Keep Moving Forward

Persistence is Key

Persistence is the cornerstone of success for any part-time author. You’ll have great days, and you’ll have days where you feel unmotivated and start to question if you can really do this. (Spoiler: you absolutely can!) During those tough times, remember that progress is still progress, no matter how small. Keep going, stay committed to your goals, and trust the process. Remember, the journey of a part-time author is a marathon, not a sprint.

Take it one step at a time, and never give up.

Becoming a part-time author is fulfilling, inspirational, and entirely achievable with the right approach. By setting realistic goals, maintaining consistency, avoiding comparisons, remembering your why, and persisting through challenges, you can find success while balancing other aspects of your life. Embrace the journey, enjoy the process, and let your creativity explore as you continue your career.

What inspired you to start writing? How can you stay connected to that inspiration as you work on your book?

If you’re feeling (still) overwhelmed or need personalized guidance, consider booking a consult call with me. Together, we can turn your writing dreams into reality. Whether you’re struggling with writer’s block or unsure about the structure of your book, we can provide the support and insight needed to transform your vision into a finished manuscript. With experience and encouragement, you can confidently navigate the path to becoming a successful author.

You may also find this post helpful: Guide to working with a book writing coach!

Use your Voice and make an Impact.

Catherine x

Email: catherine@catherinenikkel.com

Need help to tell your story in your own voice? Let’s make it happen. Schedule a consultation with me here.

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