Writing a novel takes luck… but not how we might think.
We may say, oh they were lucky they had time to write or that they were so talented. Or they were lucky to write in a popular genre and get a good publishing deal.
While there is some truth here (many authors are quite lucky), we’re missing the bigger picture.
Most authors spend years honing their craft and making time for their stories, long before they find their breakout hit—and without that hard work, they never would have seized the opportunities that made them a success.
“Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.” –Seneca
If we’re not prepared, we’ll always be waiting for our lucky break to arrive.
What are we doing today to move towards our writing dreams? How are we preparing ourselves for the opportunities that will come?
We’ve talked before about how to keep learning, how to set goals, how to find sustainable ways to keep moving forward.
Something else that can be hugely important is community and helping hands along the way. While writing is sometimes a solitary venture, having guidance and support can make all the difference!
If you’re looking for a boost in your writing, some guidance to get through the “messy middle” part of the story process, then I want to point you towards the writing community over at the Forge. It’s run by Lewis Jorstad of The Novel Smithy, and the program blends craft, accountability, and community into an awesome space for novelists of all kinds—so you can make the leap from hopeful, uncertain writer, to thriving, “lucky” author!
Now, you should know I’m an affiliate for this latest launch of the Forge, but only because I think it’s an awesome community and excellent opportunity to get excellent feedback and really grow our writing craft.
A bit of guidance can take us a long way!
The Forge provides master classes (stay tuned for one in September led by yours truly!), writing retreats (with Lewis providing professional reviews of participants’ outlines in June!), and a safe and encouraging space for feedback and getting connected with critique partners. It also provides office hours and a connection with Lewis, who brings years of editing experience as he helps encourage and help along the way!
I’ve worked with Lewis before and have nothing but good things to say- I know you’ll be in good hands!
Membership at the Forge opens this Sunday, June 4th (with early bird specials for the first folks who sign up!). Let me know if you have questions, or you can check out the free open house to check out the community a bit yourself!
Whether you’re ready to jump into the Forge and take this next step with your writing or whether you have other ways to be growing your craft these days, I hope we’re all able to be finding ways to prepare ourselves for when opportunities arise.
May you be well and lucky today! 🙂
