The Seeds You Water Will Make or Break Your Writing Career

When I first started writing, I had a nagging voice in my head telling me I wasn't good enough. 

That voice? 

It was feeding the wrong seeds - seeds of doubt, fear, and self-sabotage. But I didn't realize that the seeds I chose to water were entirely up to me. Once I understood this, everything changed. I learned that writing isn't just about talent or luck; it's about mindset. And today, I'm going to show you how to take control of yours and finally start writing that book you've been dreaming about.

Here's the secret…the seeds you water today will determine the future of your writing career.

Mindset is everything in writing. Get yours right, and the words will flow like never before.

"Whether you think you can, or you think you can't - you're right." - Henry Ford

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1. Stop Sabotaging Yourself Before You Start

Most first-time writers water the wrong seeds. 

They spend too much time nurturing self-doubt, fear, and imposter syndrome. You might think, "Who am I to write this book?" or "What if nobody cares about my story?" These thoughts are like weeds - they choke out your creativity and stifle your progress. The more you water these seeds, the deeper their roots grow, making it harder for you to move forward.

So, what should you do instead? 

Recognize these thoughts for what they are: obstacles. The first step is to catch yourself when these negative thoughts start creeping in. Next, replace them with action. Write anyway. Set a small goal, like writing for just 15 minutes. You'll find that as soon as you start writing, those doubts begin to fade. 

The key is to stop feeding the negativity and start nurturing the belief that your story matters.

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2. Focus on What Fuels Your Creativity

When you focus on joy, understanding, and mindfulness, you create an environment where creativity thrives. 

These aren't just abstract concepts - they're the building blocks of inspired writing. Think about the last time you were genuinely excited about an idea. That excitement is a seed of joy. When you water it, it grows into a strong, healthy plant - a manuscript that you're proud of.

But how do you focus on these positive emotions? 

Start by setting the stage. Create a writing space that brings you peace, whether it's a quiet corner of your home or a bustling café. Surround yourself with things that inspire you: a favorite book, a piece of art, or even a playlist that gets you in the zone. Then, make a habit of checking in with yourself before you write. Ask yourself, "What am I excited about today?" and let that excitement guide your pen. 

The more you practice this, the easier it will become to tap into your creative flow.

3. Be Intentional with Every Thought

Here's the thing: every thought you entertain is a choice. 

If you leave your mind on autopilot, it will naturally drift toward negativity because that's just how our brains are wired. But successful writers don't leave this to chance. They're intentional about the thoughts they cultivate because they know that their mindset directly impacts their work.

To put this into action, start each writing session with a clear intention. Decide what you want to focus on - whether it's a specific scene, a chapter, or even just getting words on the page. Then, remind yourself why this matters. This isn't just about discipline; it's about purpose. When you write with intention, you're not just filling pages - you're building something meaningful. 

And that sense of purpose will carry you through the tough spots, where motivation alone might fail.

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4. Control Your Inner Dialogue Like a Pro

Your inner dialogue is either your biggest ally or your worst enemy. 

If you allow negative chatter to dominate, your writing will reflect that. You'll second-guess every word, and before you know it, you're stuck in a cycle of revision paralysis. But if you take control of that inner voice, you can turn it into a powerful tool for growth.

How do you do this? 

Start by listening to yourself. Pay attention to the things you say in your head while you're writing. Are you being your own worst critic? If so, it's time to flip the script. Instead of focusing on what's wrong with your writing, start acknowledging what's right. Did you write a sentence you're proud of? Did you push through a difficult section? Celebrate those wins, no matter how small. 

Over time, this positive reinforcement will build your confidence and make your inner dialogue a source of motivation rather than doubt.

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5. Write Your Story, Not Someone Else's

Many first-time writers fall into the trap of trying to write like someone else. 

They water the seeds of comparison, thinking, "I should write like that bestselling author," or "My book should be like this one." But here's the harsh truth: that's a waste of time. Your story is unique, and trying to fit it into someone else's mold will only dilute your voice.

Instead, focus on your own experiences, your own insights. 

What makes your perspective different? What have you been through that no one else has? That's where the gold is. When you water the seeds of your own story, you're not just writing a book - you're creating something that only you can offer. And that's what readers want: authenticity. 

So stop worrying about how your writing compares to others and start writing the story that only you can tell.

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What Seeds Are You Watering?

So, what seeds are you watering today? 

Every choice you make, every thought you entertain, will either move you closer to finishing your book or keep you stuck where you are. The good news is, you have control. You can choose which seeds to water, and by doing so, you can shape the future of your writing career.

If you're still struggling to decide which seeds to nurture, don't worry - I've got more to share. Sign up for my newsletter, The Outlaw Writer, and I'll send you actionable tips and insights that will help you break through the noise and write with confidence. 

Because your story matters, and it's time to start watering the right seeds.