7 answers
Marin
Student
Elk River, Minnesota
2
Questions
Asked
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Have you ever regretted becoming an author?
I have always wanted to be an author, but I am aware of how many writers give their all into their book and for whatever reason, are unable to get a publishing company to pick it up. Or else it flopped in sales and ended up not making enough money to make it worth printing, much less living comfortably off of.
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7 answers
Ryan Keawekane
Marketing Assistant Manager
3
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Ryan’s Answer
Regret isn't something that happens once and never again. Something you love today you could regret bringing into the world tomorrow. I have two novellas that were published by a small publisher. Depending on who asks, I'm very proud of my books or hesitant to share because the audience decides whether to buy your story but only you as the author decide whether your story absolutely needs to be told... or not.
As others have said, writing is something you either have to do because you have no choice in the matter - it's like breathing: if you stop, you feel like you're slowly disintegrating - or because you've learned how to make money from it. Often it's both.
I write my novels on the side while working a professional job in creative marketing being paid very well to write (among other things). So my dream of getting paid to write came true... but not because of any of my books. When people hear I have published books, they're quick to call me an author, but I almost never use the title myself. I have made basically no money off my books but they were great for getting my professional writing job with a big consulting company. That makes me a paid writer. Being an author means something. Haruki Murakami, Amy Tan and Stephen King are authors; I'm a writer, at least for now.
Finally, I come from a small community with rich stories that most of the world has never heard. Who will tell these stories if not someone like me? People may not want to buy these stories today, but by building up an audience, you can grow the market for stories that the mainstream doesn't yet know they would like.
So the questions you need ask yourself are:
1. Is writing something I need to feel alive, because I can't live without doing it?
2. Do I need to make money off of writing?
3. Do you need the title of author? And who decides when you are an author: you or others?
4. Why are you writing? Who are you writing for? Are there stories that need to be told, even if there's no money in it?
Write.
Figure out what writing means to you.
Try to get paid to write (social media, blogging, resume writing) - does it scratch the same itch?
As others have said, writing is something you either have to do because you have no choice in the matter - it's like breathing: if you stop, you feel like you're slowly disintegrating - or because you've learned how to make money from it. Often it's both.
I write my novels on the side while working a professional job in creative marketing being paid very well to write (among other things). So my dream of getting paid to write came true... but not because of any of my books. When people hear I have published books, they're quick to call me an author, but I almost never use the title myself. I have made basically no money off my books but they were great for getting my professional writing job with a big consulting company. That makes me a paid writer. Being an author means something. Haruki Murakami, Amy Tan and Stephen King are authors; I'm a writer, at least for now.
Finally, I come from a small community with rich stories that most of the world has never heard. Who will tell these stories if not someone like me? People may not want to buy these stories today, but by building up an audience, you can grow the market for stories that the mainstream doesn't yet know they would like.
So the questions you need ask yourself are:
1. Is writing something I need to feel alive, because I can't live without doing it?
2. Do I need to make money off of writing?
3. Do you need the title of author? And who decides when you are an author: you or others?
4. Why are you writing? Who are you writing for? Are there stories that need to be told, even if there's no money in it?
Ryan recommends the following next steps:
david kirk
Retired Computing Manager
478
Answers
Syracuse, New York
Updated
david’s Answer
Hi, Marin,
In writing, I encourage you to never despair. I have authored a number of books: some did well, others did so-so, and one did poorly. All were published and sold through various outlets, but I did not become discouraged. The book that did the poorest in sales was, in my opinion, one of my best. However, the personal joy is in having written it at all. There is an inner peace to see your thoughts emerge in print because that forces you to determine whether you agree with what you wrote. Often you will find that you don't, and then you begin to construct the words that convey your true intent. The entire act of getting your thoughts expressed such that others can read them is a moment of excitement that never dies.
In writing, you learn a lot about books and why people buy them. No book is so good that people buy it in quantity unless it is marketed to them, and many purchased books are never read. You may find that your books are never bought, but that does not in any way diminish their quality or the time you spent writing them. Writing is its own reward. Do write, share with friends who will give constructive feedback. You could even self-publish with a few websites that charge you only a percentage of the price when your book sells. Can you make a career of this? You need to either write that first 'best seller' or become a celebrity. Otherwise, accept that your writing is part fun, and part hobby, and part self-expression. Most of all, enjoy it. All the best to you.
In writing, I encourage you to never despair. I have authored a number of books: some did well, others did so-so, and one did poorly. All were published and sold through various outlets, but I did not become discouraged. The book that did the poorest in sales was, in my opinion, one of my best. However, the personal joy is in having written it at all. There is an inner peace to see your thoughts emerge in print because that forces you to determine whether you agree with what you wrote. Often you will find that you don't, and then you begin to construct the words that convey your true intent. The entire act of getting your thoughts expressed such that others can read them is a moment of excitement that never dies.
In writing, you learn a lot about books and why people buy them. No book is so good that people buy it in quantity unless it is marketed to them, and many purchased books are never read. You may find that your books are never bought, but that does not in any way diminish their quality or the time you spent writing them. Writing is its own reward. Do write, share with friends who will give constructive feedback. You could even self-publish with a few websites that charge you only a percentage of the price when your book sells. Can you make a career of this? You need to either write that first 'best seller' or become a celebrity. Otherwise, accept that your writing is part fun, and part hobby, and part self-expression. Most of all, enjoy it. All the best to you.
Tatiane Lima
Journalist, copywriter, content manager (CMS)
9
Answers
Santos, SP
Updated
Tatiane’s Answer
Hi Marin!
No, no regrets. Actually, I am not a book writer, but I live on the money from writing. I am a Content Author, so my routine is related to text production, proofreading and creativity. And every time I think about my job, I feel happy that I can do what I love every day. Working just for the money or to have a certain position in society is not a life strategy that works for me. I have done that and I didn't feel fulfilled. Today I can't complain about the way I live, I have my house, I can consume what I want, I have no debts and I believe I live in a comfortable position - which has happened with time and my value as a professional over the years. The profession offers a range of options, you can specialize in writing screenplays, producing content for websites, writing for magazines and other media outlets.
As long as you are happy doing what you do, you will have nothing to regret.
No, no regrets. Actually, I am not a book writer, but I live on the money from writing. I am a Content Author, so my routine is related to text production, proofreading and creativity. And every time I think about my job, I feel happy that I can do what I love every day. Working just for the money or to have a certain position in society is not a life strategy that works for me. I have done that and I didn't feel fulfilled. Today I can't complain about the way I live, I have my house, I can consume what I want, I have no debts and I believe I live in a comfortable position - which has happened with time and my value as a professional over the years. The profession offers a range of options, you can specialize in writing screenplays, producing content for websites, writing for magazines and other media outlets.
As long as you are happy doing what you do, you will have nothing to regret.
Robert Fiorella
Have been a teacher, counselor, professional comedian and a few more.
9
Answers
Amherst, New York
Updated
Robert’s Answer
Writing is first and foremost about writing. Being published is great, but if that’s your primary reason for writing then find another profession. Any author I have ever truly respected wrote because he/she had no choice. We write because we must, it’s in our blood, it’s who we are, it’s why we breathe. We can’t stop. We define ourselves by what we write.
If this thesis resonates with you then you are probably a writer. SO WRITE!
If you write “well,” as defined by the world then a publisher will probably eventually buy your material and publish it….. a very difficult experience (having other people decide how to manipulate your work to make it more palatable for the buying public.) Don’t ever allow publication to become your primary motivation or you’ll spend your life chasing something VERY HOLLOW.
Write because you must. Write because you love (and hate) the process. Write because it’s who you are. JUST WRITE!
And for what it’s worth, listen to your heart.
If this thesis resonates with you then you are probably a writer. SO WRITE!
If you write “well,” as defined by the world then a publisher will probably eventually buy your material and publish it….. a very difficult experience (having other people decide how to manipulate your work to make it more palatable for the buying public.) Don’t ever allow publication to become your primary motivation or you’ll spend your life chasing something VERY HOLLOW.
Write because you must. Write because you love (and hate) the process. Write because it’s who you are. JUST WRITE!
And for what it’s worth, listen to your heart.
Mario D. Leone
Produced Screenwriter
25
Answers
Spring Valley, New York
Updated
Mario D.’s Answer
I don’t have regrets. I have back up skills. That means always working on other things. You could always go down the river and two boats until one of them becomes the main one. No regrets in life; none. When you learn to have self compassion for yourself, as well as self-love, nothing is regretted.
People who choose a career path that aligns with their personal values and goals are more likely to find fulfillment in their work and less likely to regret their career choices. If you are second-guessing yourself, then that’s a sign that maybe, just maybe, you may not be fulfilled in that career. It’s a matter of two things: confidence, and fulfillment. You have to have confidence in your work. You have to have a sense of fulfillment. Confidence in your work takes time, but that confidence comes from the commitment. Yes, people don’t like the word commitment.
For example, someone who values helping others may feel more fulfilled working in a healthcare or social services field, while someone who values creativity may enjoy working in a design or arts-related field. So, the type of writing you do is going to impact how you feel. Some writing can be very dry much like a dry polemic style. People nowadays argue, just to argue, especially online.
Argumentative writing let’s say, and it’s becoming more common. If you’re writing doesn’t light you up inside. Then you should find something that does, but don’t be afraid to remain committed. Writing will impact another part of life such as self reflection.
When people feel like their job does not match their skills, interests, or personality, they may feel unhappy or unfulfilled. This can lead to regret over career choices. On the other hand, people who have found a job that fits well with their skills and personality are more likely to enjoy their work and feel satisfied.
Work-life balance: People who prioritize a healthy work-life balance may be less likely to regret their work. This means finding a job that allows for enough time outside of work to pursue hobbies, spend time with family and friends, and take care of oneself.
External factors: Sometimes external factors beyond a person's control can impact their job satisfaction and lead to regret. These can include economic conditions, changes in the industry, company culture, or management style.
It is never, ever what you do… it is a good feeling you get from what you do. If it’s hard work, you find the love in it. If it’s not hard work, then it may leave you unsatisfied or unchallenged.
So what do you do? Aim, for mastery? Make sure you put on some music while you’re writing? What lights you up inside? What fears do you have holding you back? Are you afraid to be committed to the writing? Are you afraid of failure? Your self-esteem comes from inside. One thing holds true, and if it lights up inside, that’s the right direction to go.
To be committed you do the following…
Go to that workshop for writing. Go to that class. Go to any group writing classes. Remain committed.
But remain committed, as long as it lights up inside. I had a very good friend who is a screenwriter who is afraid to put his work out there.
I pushed him to put his work out there, and he kept saying people would steal it. I smelled fear within him.
Low and behold, he had a massive heart attack, and his work will never see the light of day, and the people will never know how successful it was. The only regret is not doing…
Copywriting your work is a drivers license to put it out in the world. Protecting your work Is permission to move it within the marketplace.
Protect your work, and be bold.
Commit to classes and workshops.
Commit to writing 5 to 10 minutes every day.
Evaluate your goals and values.
Determine what type of writing an industry you want to do. Video games? Screenwriting?
Ask yourself does it light you up inside? If it doesn’t find another career. If it does keep going. You either get excited writing or you don’t.
People who choose a career path that aligns with their personal values and goals are more likely to find fulfillment in their work and less likely to regret their career choices. If you are second-guessing yourself, then that’s a sign that maybe, just maybe, you may not be fulfilled in that career. It’s a matter of two things: confidence, and fulfillment. You have to have confidence in your work. You have to have a sense of fulfillment. Confidence in your work takes time, but that confidence comes from the commitment. Yes, people don’t like the word commitment.
For example, someone who values helping others may feel more fulfilled working in a healthcare or social services field, while someone who values creativity may enjoy working in a design or arts-related field. So, the type of writing you do is going to impact how you feel. Some writing can be very dry much like a dry polemic style. People nowadays argue, just to argue, especially online.
Argumentative writing let’s say, and it’s becoming more common. If you’re writing doesn’t light you up inside. Then you should find something that does, but don’t be afraid to remain committed. Writing will impact another part of life such as self reflection.
When people feel like their job does not match their skills, interests, or personality, they may feel unhappy or unfulfilled. This can lead to regret over career choices. On the other hand, people who have found a job that fits well with their skills and personality are more likely to enjoy their work and feel satisfied.
Work-life balance: People who prioritize a healthy work-life balance may be less likely to regret their work. This means finding a job that allows for enough time outside of work to pursue hobbies, spend time with family and friends, and take care of oneself.
External factors: Sometimes external factors beyond a person's control can impact their job satisfaction and lead to regret. These can include economic conditions, changes in the industry, company culture, or management style.
It is never, ever what you do… it is a good feeling you get from what you do. If it’s hard work, you find the love in it. If it’s not hard work, then it may leave you unsatisfied or unchallenged.
So what do you do? Aim, for mastery? Make sure you put on some music while you’re writing? What lights you up inside? What fears do you have holding you back? Are you afraid to be committed to the writing? Are you afraid of failure? Your self-esteem comes from inside. One thing holds true, and if it lights up inside, that’s the right direction to go.
To be committed you do the following…
Go to that workshop for writing. Go to that class. Go to any group writing classes. Remain committed.
But remain committed, as long as it lights up inside. I had a very good friend who is a screenwriter who is afraid to put his work out there.
I pushed him to put his work out there, and he kept saying people would steal it. I smelled fear within him.
Low and behold, he had a massive heart attack, and his work will never see the light of day, and the people will never know how successful it was. The only regret is not doing…
Copywriting your work is a drivers license to put it out in the world. Protecting your work Is permission to move it within the marketplace.
Protect your work, and be bold.
Mario D. recommends the following next steps:
Fernando Iriarte
Freelance Writer & Editor
151
Answers
Puerto Rico
Updated
Fernando’s Answer
At times regret does hit, though you'd be hard press to find someone that at one point didn't regret their career path. The important thing is to remember that at times there are factors that are out of your control that will sour your passions. Maybe you haven't yet gotten your story published, but it doesn't mean it's a lost cause. Don't feel ashamed if you have to take on other jobs in between getting your story published, all authors go through that.
Jim Pappas
Film Critic, retired
3
Answers
Updated
Jim’s Answer
Hi,
No, I have no regrets. It is just something I have to do, and to be honest I am not having a lot of success writing fiction. I am published as a film and book critic, and I've received much praise for my work in that area, but I've yet to sell any of my fiction. I just keep writing and hope one day something will stick. I don't feel like I have any choice but to plod on. Good luck and just keep writing.
No, I have no regrets. It is just something I have to do, and to be honest I am not having a lot of success writing fiction. I am published as a film and book critic, and I've received much praise for my work in that area, but I've yet to sell any of my fiction. I just keep writing and hope one day something will stick. I don't feel like I have any choice but to plod on. Good luck and just keep writing.