Jade Malay Talks About What It Takes to Become a Successful Writer

Writing is more than just putting thoughts into words—it’s a craft that requires discipline, dedication, creativity, and continuous learning. Whether you're writing blogs, novels, academic papers, or nonfiction articles, success doesn’t come overnight. In this detailed guide, Jade Malay shares what it truly takes to become a successful writer, offering insights gained from years of writing experience across various formats and platforms.

1. Know Your Purpose as a Writer

According to Jade Malay, the first step toward becoming a successful writer is identifying your purpose. Ask yourself: Why do I write? Some write to inform, others to entertain, inspire, or challenge ideas. Understanding your "why" gives direction to your writing and helps you stay aligned with your goals.

Knowing your purpose helps:

• Shape your voice and tone
• Determine your target audience
• Keep you motivated during tough writing phases

Successful writing begins with intentionality. Without purpose, writing can easily become aimless and unfocused.

2. Create a Consistent Writing Routine

One of the key traits of successful writers, Jade Malay notes, is consistency. Writing every day—or at least on a regular schedule—helps develop your skills and builds momentum.

Here are a few ways to build a productive writing routine:

• Set a schedule. Choose specific times each day or week to write, and stick to them.
• Start small: Writing 300–500 words a day is more effective than burning out after long sessions.
• Designate a writing space: A quiet, comfortable space can improve focus and creativity.
• Use timers or writing apps: Tools like Pomodoro timers or Scrivener can help manage sessions efficiently.

Writing regularly trains your mind to be creative on demand and minimizes writer’s block over time.

3. Read Broadly and Often

Jade Malay emphasizes that great writers are also great readers. Reading across genres and styles not only improves vocabulary but also exposes you to different perspectives, sentence structures, and storytelling techniques.

Benefits of consistent reading include:

• Learning what works (and what doesn’t) in writing
• Developing your own voice and style
• Staying current with trends and reader preferences

Make it a habit to read daily—fiction, non-fiction, poetry, or even technical writing. Each form teaches something new.

4. Learn the Foundations of Writing

While creativity is important, technical skill is equally vital. Jade Malay advises all writers—beginners or experienced—to continuously refine their grasp of grammar, sentence structure, and flow.

Core writing elements to master include:

• Clear introductions and conclusions
• Logical transitions between ideas
• Sentence variety and rhythm
• Paragraph coherence

For fiction writers, add these elements:

• Plot structure (beginning, middle, climax, resolution)
• Character development and arcs
• Dialogue that reveals personality and drives story

Strong foundations lead to clear, engaging, and impactful writing.

5. Embrace Drafting and Editing

One of the biggest myths about writing is that the first draft should be perfect. Jade Malay reminds writers that the real magic happens during revision.

Drafting tips:

• Write freely without editing mid-way
• Focus on getting ideas down first
• Don’t worry about grammar or formatting initially

Editing tips:

• Take a break before revising to view your work with fresh eyes
• Read aloud to spot awkward phrasing
• Use editing tools like Grammarly or ProWritingAid
• Get feedback from peers or professional editors

Successful writing is polished writing. Never underestimate the value of a thorough edit.

6. Be Open to Feedback and Growth

Receiving feedback is an essential part of improving your craft. According to Jade Malay, even the most experienced writers need an outside perspective to refine their work.

How to handle feedback constructively:

• View it as an opportunity to learn, not as criticism
• Ask specific questions like “Does this section feel clear?” or “Is the tone consistent?”
• Join a writing group or community where feedback is part of the process

Writers who welcome growth are the ones who evolve and remain relevant over time.

7. Build Your Personal Brand

In today’s digital world, successful writers often double as marketers. Jade Malay recommends that writers, especially freelancers and authors, build a personal brand to showcase their work and connect with readers.

Steps to build your brand:

• Create a professional portfolio or blog
• Be active on platforms like LinkedIn, Medium, or Substack
• Share valuable content regularly
• Develop a consistent tone and visual identity

A strong online presence not only builds credibility but can also lead to writing opportunities, collaborations, and a loyal audience.

8. Develop Mental Resilience

Writing is mentally demanding. There will be days when inspiration is low, feedback is harsh, or rejection emails pile up. Jade Malay emphasizes the importance of building resilience.

Ways to stay mentally strong:

• Celebrate small wins (e.g., finishing a chapter, meeting a word count)
• Take breaks to prevent burnout
• Practice self-care and mindfulness
• Remind yourself of your long-term vision

Understand that self-doubt and creative fatigue are part of the process. The key is not to quit.

9. Keep Learning and Evolving

The writing world is always changing—new platforms, trends, tools, and audiences. Jade Malay encourages writers to stay curious and never stop learning.

Learning opportunities include:

• Online writing courses and webinars
• Books on writing (e.g., On Writing by Stephen King)
• Following industry blogs or podcasts
• Attending writing conferences or workshops

Staying updated and flexible makes you more marketable and helps you grow continuously as a writer.

10. Be Patient and Persistent

Success doesn’t happen overnight. Whether you’re working on a novel, academic thesis, or a freelance career, Jade Malay advises writers to be patient with their progress and persistent in their practice.

Remember:

• Most successful authors wrote several unpublished pieces before making it big
• Consistency is more important than speed
• Every page you write brings you closer to your goal

If you remain dedicated, your voice will find its audience.

Final Thoughts

Success in writing is a combination of skill, strategy, and mindset. Through her journey, Jade Malay has learned that becoming a successful writer isn't about luck—it's about building habits, staying committed, and continually improving. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your writing to the next level, these practical insights can guide your path.

Start where you are. Write consistently. Learn endlessly. And remember—every writer was once a beginner who refused to give up.