Characteristics of a Determined Writer

by DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills

Determination is the foundation of a writer’s success. Without the courage, purpose, and willpower to learn the craft, a writer merely dreams about a goal they will never achieve. Writing success isn’t measured by mastering a few skills but by continuously learning about every area of the publishing world. Every writer needs to develop characteristics of a determined writer.

Let’s first establish what writer determination is NOT:

1. Doing whatever it takes to reach publication.

2. Ignoring family and friends.

3. Placing writing above God.

4. Sacrificing good health.

5. Working seven days a week.

6. Refusing to edit or make changes.

Below shows some writer determination qualities in an acrostic: 

D E T E R M I N A T I O N

D – Dedicated

We commit to writing our best by respecting those who have gone before us and those who light the way forward. We evaluate our habits and practices for ways to continue or improve in our profession.

E – Energetic

We apply spirit and vitality to exploring every detail of the writing life. Our energy translates into vitality for life and the publishing world.

T – Teachable

We open our hearts and minds to writing techniques and methods of sharing our work with the world. We are open to learning new skills and learn from masters of the craft.

E – Enthusiastic

We show excitement for the writing industry and are passionate about our writing projects.

R – Reliable

We are dependable. Our yes, means yes. Deadlines are met with quality work and expertise. 

M – Motivated

We are driven by the need to show readers quality prose that entertains, inspires, encourages, and informs. 

I – Inspirational

We refuse to compromise our faith, our relationships with others, or practice any unscrupulous way to publication. We believe our gift of writing comes from God, and we want to be an inspiration to others.

N – Networkable

We connect with other writers and those in the publishing industry to learn, grow, and help others. 

A – Authentic

We are genuine. No façade or pretense. The writer someone meets at an event is the same person in the comforts of their home.

T – Trustworthy

We ensure our writing is factual, accurate, and dependable. A writer admits when a mistake is made and takes steps to correct the error. 

I – Integrity

We stand for honesty, righteousness, and morality in our dealings with others. In our writing, we do not knowingly plagiarize. Our signature shows who we are.

O – Optimistic

We act when comments and edits suggest our writing, habits, character, or life skills can be improved. Gray days happen but we know the sun will shine.

N – Not-normal

We look at the world differently by appreciating the uniqueness of culture, people, and setting. We are not normal, and neither will we ever be nor want to be. We have been given the gift of writing, and that means words flow through us with meaning and purpose. 

How do you view writer determination? Be sure to share your thoughts in the comments section below!

TWEETABLE

Characteristics of a Determined Writer, from author @DiAnnMills on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)

DiAnn Mills is a bestselling author who believes her readers should expect an adventure. She creates action-packed, suspense-filled novels to thrill readers. Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists; won two Christy Awards; and been finalists for the RITA, Daphne Du Maurier, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol award contests. 

She is the former director of the Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference, Mountainside Marketing Retreat, and Mountainside Novelist Retreat with social media specialist Edie Melson. Connect here: DiAnnMills.com

Featured Image: Photo by Dylann Hendricks | 딜란 on Unsplash