Things You Don't Need to Succeed as an Online Writer

Despite what many writers with their sponsored posts may tell you - you don't need to spend a lot of money to be a successful writer and you don't need to be breaking the bank buying a bunch of things that will only gather dust. (#3 On this list included) 

Despite what you may have been told here is a list of things you definitely don't need - 

High-End Gadgets 

Sure there's an allure in having the newest gadget or gizmo when it comes to writing and I won't lie - I've spent more time than I should have looking into a FreeWrite TypeWriter when I have a perfectly fine AlphaSmart Neo 2 that I bought on eBay for $25 that does the same thing that the $700 one claims to do. 

All you need to write is a basic and functional setup which can include anything from a budget laptop, tablet, or desktop to a pencil and a sheet of paper. 

You can even write your novel from your local library as most have computers that you can use for free as long as you have a card

It's also another reason why you should have a library card and be supporting your local library, you help other authors as well. 

Perfectionism 

Looking for perfection in your writing will kill your story before you even start especially if you are aiming to write a perfect first draft. 

Your first draft is going to be horrible, just accept it and get to writing. 

By embracing imperfect you allow yourself to get into the flow of writing and anything that doesn't come out right - well that's what the process of revision and editing is for. 

Formal Writing Degree

I have a degree in writing and I'm going to be 100% transparent with you - all it's gotten me is a pretty paper to hang on the wall and a monthly bill that makes me want to cry. 

Yes, I learned some skills and things that I use to this day, but they weren't anything that I couldn't have learned with one of my classes here and there or by reading books on writing at my local library. 

If you have the money and time to commit to a formal education then by all means go forth and embrace it, but for those of us past the point of sitting through lectures about Shakespeare and why commas are important - go ahead and skip it. 

Large Social Media Following 

Most of my social media accounts have less than 100 followers a piece, the only exception being my TikTok account which has managed to astound me and have over 1000 followers. 

While large numbers are nice they don't guarantee success in writing any more than tacking up posters on lampposts around your town. 

When you fixate on the number instead of the quality then you're not truly making the connections and reaching invested individuals who will help you on your path to success. 

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Writing does not need to be done with all the bells and whistles that you may see some writers bragging about online. 

You just need to write and put that writing online where someone can find it. 

Now go get to writing. 

With love, 

B.K. xo xo

Want to write with me live? I'm now on Twitch! Come join me in some writing sprints every Wed-Thurs-Fri-Sat at 10:30 pm EST

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