Knowing who you are

When the time comes for an author to write his or her second novel, there is one variable that will become apparent: personal change.

Or perhaps it is personal consistency, depending on the author.

Circumstances around you (the schedule at your job, the writing industry, etc.) can affect how you approach publishing your second novel, but who you are is even more vital.

If you found writing at night easier while writing your first book, most likely you will find writing at night to be easier in your second book as well. Even if you deliberately set aside time in the morning or afternoon, your creativity will flourish after dark.

If you found it easier to have several writing sessions of 500 words each the first time around, you are unlikely to have a a handful of 5,000 word-sessions the second time. It's your style, and it does not have to change.

If you were a procrastinator writing your first book, most likely, you will be a procrastinator writing your second book. This is not a judgement - I procrastinated on parts of The Pride of Central and The Jewelry of Grace - but it is something to be aware of. If you know you have a habit of putting something off to the last minute, try to arrange a deadline that does not overlap with some other big event (your friend's wedding or child's graduation, for example).

For me, I need the occasional encouraging word to keep me going. I have a lot of self-doubt when it comes to my writing, especially writing that sits outside of public view for months. With little feedback, I question if my story is any good at all. Is it entertaining? Is it even coherent?

Perhaps not all writers need this feedback for emotional purposes, but I do. I did not realize how much I needed that support, though, until I got it this past week. The first of my beta readers finished The Jewelry of Grace. Her feedback started with this:

"Very well written and well done. . ."

The compliment is simple, but important to me. Just to find that my story appealed to one reader is the fuel I need over this last month before publication to get The Jewelry of Grace to the finish line. It was several last-minute words of encouragement from my beta readers who helped me see The Pride of Central through, and the same thing is happening again.

This may or may not apply to you. But when you do try to write your second story, remember whatever it was that motivated you during your first publishing experience. It will probably help you through again.

Next week: Finding the time