Helping Your Story Grow
Every writer's journey is different. Some writers decide to write stories for their own leisure, while others publish one book and never write another. Then there are writers who are in there for the long haul, the ones who put out numerous books over their careers. Whatever choice you make, the starting point is always the same. You need to set up your book(s) for success.
What do I mean by this? I mean, success can be defined in many ways. Let's go back to the basics.
The Plan: It all starts with an idea, a tiny seed of something that grows into a story. So why not plan it out?
Make an Outline: Plan out your book chapter by chapter, giving yourself a general idea of how the story will progress. This can cut down so much time in the long run. Time spent writing and rewriting. Even time spent editing.
Summary: Aren't sure how to proceed yet? That's absolutely fine! All you need to do is summarize what your general story idea is so you can hit the ground running.
Set Goals: Oftentimes a writer's time is scattered and our story feels as if it takes ages to finish. If the inspiration isn't there, don't force it. But if you are a person who needs to see progress, then create some goals for yourself. By goals I mean, chapters completed by a specified date. Maybe even a scene to be written or outlined.
Start Early: Even when your story starts as a seed, you need to think of the overall picture. The end result, if you will. If you aren't getting the word out there that it exists, then who will.
Make Connections: Connecting with other authors and writers in your genre is how you learn about the market for your genre. These people will also be the people who help shout out your praise and be your allies as you go forward.
Market: Letting the world know about your book early on is how you build your audience. Updating your potential readers on your progress and even giving introductions to your characters will gain attention.
Remember, even if your story doesn't have legs, making a plan will help establish to yourself how far it can go. How big it can grow! I hope this helps you on your next writing venture!