As we bid farewell to another year, I find myself reflecting on a journey that consumed the entirety of 2023: the creation of my first book. From the initial outline to the completion of the final draft, the process has been both arduous and enlightening. In the spirit of paying it forward, I am eager to share the lessons I learned throughout this intricate journey.
For those of you considering the ambitious resolution of writing a book in the coming year, this post is tailor-made for you. Here's a compilation of twelve lessons that I learned (mostly the hard way) this year. Join me as I revisit the challenges and victories of writing my very first book in 2023, offering insights that could be the guiding light you need on your writing journey.

IDEATING A BOOK

1) Nothing’s new
In the universe of writing, one truth often emerges but is not always spoken: nothing’s new. And believe me when I tell you, it is a good thing. Far from being a limitation, this realisation brings a sense of liberation to the aspiring author. It signifies that the pressure to unearth groundbreaking, unprecedented ideas is alleviated. Instead, one can draw inspiration from the collective pool of human experiences, embracing the timeless themes that resonate universally.
This lack of a burden to reinvent the wheel grants a writer the freedom to explore their unique perspective on these age-old themes. It's not about creating something entirely novel; rather, it's about infusing the familiar with a personal touch, breathing new life into the perennial aspects of human existence. In this way, the absence of the need for absolute novelty becomes a gateway to creativity, allowing writers to showcase their distinctive voices while tapping into the timeless and relatable aspects of storytelling.

2) Read as much as you write
In the writer's toolkit, the mantra ‘read as much as you write’ carries profound weight. It underscores the pivotal role of reading not only as a source of inspiration but as a formal classroom in the art of storytelling. Every book serves as a mentor, offering valuable lessons in language, narrative structures, and character development.
Reading isn't a mere pastime; it's an intentional part of a writer's education. It provides exposure to diverse styles and perspectives, nurturing a writer's ability to discern what resonates with them. Beyond emulation, it fosters evolution, shaping a writer's unique voice through a dynamic dialogue with the written word. In essence, the more one reads, the more refined and nuanced their writing becomes. It's a continuous, reciprocal process that transforms reading from leisure into an indispensable tool for any aspiring writer.

3) Take notes
In the realm of creativity, the power of taking notes cannot be overstated. Whether a sudden burst of inspiration or a subtle character trait, jotting down these fleeting moments serves as a writer's compass. Notes act as breadcrumbs guiding you back to the essence of a scene or a character.
Keep a record of the quirks and nuances that define your characters, forming a palette from which their authenticity springs. These notes are not just a preservation of ideas; they are the building blocks that shape your narrative. So, whether capturing a sudden idea or sculpting a character's idiosyncrasies, let your notes be the keeper of your creative journey, ensuring no nuance is left unexplored.

FIRST DRAFTS

4) Write quickly
When diving into your first draft, don't get bogged down by details. Write fast, let the ideas pour out without worrying about perfect grammar or plot holes. This is the messy, creative stage where you're just getting the story down. Save the editing for later – that's when you can smooth out the rough spots and make it shine. Don't let self-doubt slow you down; just keep going. Writing quickly is your ticket to breaking free from perfectionism and getting that story out of your head and onto the page. The beauty comes in the refining process, so for now, embrace the messiness and enjoy the freedom of the initial draft.

5) A good first line is essential
Imagine your book's first line as a sly wink, a flirtation that pulls readers into your world. It's not just a hello; it's a mystery waiting to unravel. A killer first line is the ultimate teaser trailer, leaving readers wondering why, how, and who. Think of it like a secret handshake with your readers, a promise that there's more excitement to come. A good first line isn't just an introduction; it's a magnetic force, drawing readers into your story. It's the spark that lights the fire of curiosity, setting the vibe for the entire journey.
So, when you're penning that opening sentence, make it more than just words on a page. Make it a sneak peek, a hook that grabs your reader and whispers: ‘You won't want to miss what's next.’ After all, a good first line isn't just about starting a story; it's about making readers eager to find out what happens next.

6) Break it down into small tasks
Facing the prospect of writing an entire book can feel like staring up at a colossal mountain. The trick? Break it down into bite-sized tasks. Instead of wrestling with the enormity of a whole book, set a goal to tackle a few pages each day. It's like taking the journey one step at a time. By breaking it down, you're not just chipping away at the task; you're creating manageable milestones. These smaller goals make the writing process less overwhelming and more achievable. Think of it as assembling a puzzle – focus on one piece at a time, and soon the big picture will come into view.
Consistency is key. Commit to writing a bit each day, and watch as the pages accumulate faster than you'd imagine. It's a strategy that turns a daunting endeavour into a series of manageable steps, making the seemingly insurmountable task of writing a book suddenly within reach. So, take it day by day, page by page, and before you know it, you'll see tangible results.

7) See where your characters take you
While having an outline provides a comforting roadmap for your narrative journey, don't shy away from giving your characters some breathing space. Think of it as letting them take the wheel for a bit. Allow the flexibility for your characters to act authentically, even if it means straying from the original plan. There's magic in spontaneity. Characters, like people, can surprise you. Sometimes, the story takes on a life of its own when you let your characters guide the way. Don't be afraid to deviate from the script; the unexpected twists they introduce might lead to remarkably rich and authentic plot developments.
Consider the outline as a compass, not a straightjacket. Giving your characters the freedom to be themselves within the narrative can result in unforeseen brilliance. So, loosen your grip on the reins, let your characters breathe, and be prepared for the delightful surprises they may have in store for both you and your readers.

EDITING

8) Step away from your first draft
The impulse to dive into editing immediately after finishing your first draft is understandable, but here's a counterintuitive tip: step away. Give yourself the gift of distance. Resist the urge to dissect your manuscript right away. Instead, let it breathe. Taking a hiatus, whether it's a few weeks or a month, allows you to return to your work with fresh eyes. This time away isn't procrastination; it's a strategic pause. Engage in other projects, seek new inspiration, or simply let your mind wander. The clarity that emerges when you return to your manuscript is invaluable.
By distancing yourself, you break the emotional ties to your initial creation, making it easier to spot areas that need improvement. You'll be surprised how much more objectively you can evaluate your work after a hiatus. So, trust the process, let your manuscript marinate, and when you return, you'll be armed with a sharper perspective to sculpt it into its best version.

9) Let someone else read it first
Once you've crafted what feels like a decent version of your book, the next step might be one of the toughest: let someone else read it. The reluctance is understandable—I've been there. But it's an essential leap. Allowing someone else into your creative realm offers an entirely fresh perspective that you, as the author, may have overlooked. The insights garnered from another reader can be invaluable. They spot nuances, gaps, or strengths that you might have become blind to in the process. It's not just about constructive criticism; it's about gaining a holistic understanding of your work from a reader's standpoint.
And here's the unexpected bonus: the confidence boost. Hearing someone praise your draft, pointing out what works well, can be a powerful motivator. It's a reminder that your creation has the potential to resonate with others. So, take that leap of faith, share your work, and relish the unique insights and encouragement that come from letting someone else in on your creative journey.

10) Focus on secondary characters
While main characters often steal the spotlight, don't underestimate the power of well-developed secondary characters. They are the unsung heroes that can elevate your book from good to outstanding. Giving depth and authenticity to those on the sidelines adds layers to your narrative, making it memorable and distinctive. Secondary characters are the spice in your literary dish, providing flavour and nuance. When each character, no matter how minor, has a purpose and a story, it enriches the overall tapestry of your book. Readers may be drawn to a story because of the main characters, but it's often the secondary ones that leave a lasting impression.
Think of your book as a community, and each character plays a unique role. By investing time in crafting well-rounded secondary characters, you create a more immersive and realistic world. So, as you sculpt the main characters, don't forget to sprinkle that same care and attention on those who inhabit the periphery. It's the collective strength of your cast that makes your book truly stand out.

11) Be both a reader and a writer
When it comes to editing your book, don two hats: that of a reader and a writer. As a reader, immerse yourself in your own story, detached from the creator's lens. See it through fresh eyes, identifying what captivates and what falls flat. Absorb the narrative as if it's a book you picked up at a bookstore, allowing yourself to experience the highs and lows. Now, step back into the shoes of the writer. Armed with the insights gleaned from your reader persona, address the areas that didn't quite hit the mark. Editing demands a dance between these dual roles, balancing the emotional resonance of a reader with the discerning eye of a writer.
This dynamic approach allows you to refine and polish your manuscript with a holistic perspective. It's not just about fixing errors; it's about sculpting an experience that resonates authentically. So, as you embark on the editing journey, oscillate between the roles of reader and writer, ensuring your final product is a harmonious blend of both perspectives.

And, most importantly…
12) Enjoy the process
In the grand tapestry of lessons learned, perhaps the most vital is to relish the process. Writing is not merely a task but a passion, a labor of love that drew most of us to this craft in the first place. Embrace the tears, find joy in laughter at your own jokes, experience the thrill of falling in love with characters, and allow yourself the liberty of despising the ones you've crafted. This journey, filled with highs and lows, is a mental odyssey into a world of your own making. Every book, regardless of its ultimate outcome, is a unique expedition. So, amidst the challenges and triumphs, take a moment to bask in the sheer enjoyment of creating. Let the process be as fulfilling as the final product.
Writing is an exploration, an adventure into the realms of imagination. Each word, each sentence, is a step further into the world you're building. Whether you're immersed in the intricacies of the plot or savouring the subtle nuances of character development, relish every moment. After all, it's the love for this process that ignited your writer's journey, and ensuring that passion endures is the key to a truly rewarding creative endeavour.

Looking back on the wild ride of the past year, writing my first book has been a mix of excitement and nerves. Taking the plunge into writing is like jumping into the unknown, and I can't wait for you to see what I've cooked up.
So, if you've got that nagging urge to write the book you've been dreaming about, make it your New Year's resolution. Sure, it might be a bit scary, maybe even frustrating, but trust me, it's all going to be worth it—I'm certain of that.
I hope these lessons I've shared resonate with you as much as they did with me. As we gear up for a brand new year, I wish you all the guts to chase your creative dreams and the strength to tackle whatever obstacles come your way. Here's to a year brimming with inspiration, creativity, and the fulfilment of your writing dreams. Happy New Year!