You’re mid-Zoom call, nodding along like you’re engaged, but your mind is elsewhere—dreaming up your book launch, picturing yourself on a bestseller list, giving a thank-you speech to your cat for being your muse. Sound familiar? The idea of writing a book nags at you like a song you can’t get out of your head. But wait—should you write a book? What’s really behind this itch? Is it a fleeting fantasy or a serious calling?
If you’ve found yourself Googling “how to become an author” more times than you’d care to admit, this article is for you. We’ll dive into whether this creative passion is truly your path, tackle the mental hurdles of writing, explore the showdown between online self-publishing platforms vs. traditional publishing, and ultimately help you answer that big question: Should I write a book? Get ready to find out if this endeavor is worth chasing—or if it’s just a daydream.
The Calling (Or Curse?): Signs You Might Be Meant to Write
Do you ever find yourself narrating your commute like it’s the prologue to your next bestselling novel? Or maybe you catch yourself plotting character arcs while waiting in line at the coffee shop, because even the barista has a backstory in your mind. If this sounds all too familiar, there might be more to your obsession with writing a book than you think.
Here’s the truth: many dream of becoming writers, but only a fraction ever actually put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard). A survey of 2,000 U.S. respondents revealed that while over half believe their life is worthy of a book deal, only 15% have actually started writing a book, and a mere 6% have gotten halfway through. (source: Study Finds)
The difference between a passing fantasy and a persistent creative itch is all about the dedication and drive to see it through. If you find yourself crafting stories in your head more often than scrolling through social media, it might not just be a whim—it could be the calling of a writer. And if your grocery list has subplots, we need to talk. Seriously.
So, if your book idea won’t leave you alone, and your mind is constantly running with possibilities, it’s time to ask: Are you meant to write?
Writing Isn’t Therapy… But It Might Be Close
Writing isn’t therapy, but it’s pretty close. Whether you’re pouring your heart out onto the page or using your characters as a stand-in for your own struggles, there’s something cathartic about expressing yourself through words. It’s a safe space to unravel emotions, confront your demons, and make sense of the chaos. But like any emotional endeavor, it’s not without its challenges. The most common? Self-doubt, the ever-present companion of writers, followed closely by imposter syndrome—the fear that maybe, just maybe, you’re not good enough to write a book. And then there’s the fear of exposure, the terrifying idea that others will read your innermost thoughts.
But here’s the thing: Writing forces you to clarify your thoughts, develop your identity, and find your voice. And it’s never too late. Authors like Frank McCourt, who published Angela’s Ashes at 66, prove that it’s possible to succeed, no matter when you start. Writing for self-expression isn’t just cathartic—it can be transformative.
Writer’s Block and Other Demons: The Struggles No One Talks About
Let’s be real: writing a book is not all sunsets and happy endings. In fact, it’s a mental obstacle course. The most insidious of these hurdles? Perfectionism. You’ll stare at a single sentence for hours, tweaking and re-tweaking, convinced it’s not quite right—yet somehow it still feels wrong. And then there’s procrastination, the sneaky little demon that convinces you that “just one more episode of that true crime documentary” is more important than writing. But wait—burnout is waiting in the wings, too, ready to knock you out when you least expect it.
Writing a book requires mental stamina. It’s not a sprint. It’s a marathon, and just like running 26 miles, there will be moments where you want to quit because your characters stop talking to you, or you wonder if anyone will even care about your plot twists.
The hardest part? It can be lonely. Writing is often a solitary endeavor that demands self-discipline and a steady resolve to keep going when doubt creeps in. But when you push through, the satisfaction is worth it. Just remember: It’s all fun and games until you face the blank page… and your characters are being mysteriously silent.
Self-Publishing vs Traditional Publishing: Choose Your Fighter
So, you’ve decided to publish your book—but now you’ve hit a crossroads: self-publishing or traditional publishing? It’s the ultimate battle of control versus patience, and the winner depends on your personality and goals.
Self-publishing gives you full creative control—think of it as being the captain of your ship. You make the rules, choose your cover design, and keep all the royalties. But with that power comes responsibility. You’re the one doing the heavy lifting: marketing, distribution, and making sure your book is everywhere it needs to be.
Traditional publishing, on the other hand, involves gatekeepers—agents, editors, and publishers who decide if your book is worthy of a spot on their shelf. The perks? They handle the hard stuff: distribution, marketing, and editing. The downside? The waiting game. It can take months (or years) to see your book in print, and the power over your creation is somewhat limited.
Debunking a common myth: Self-publishing does not mean “less serious.” Authors like Andy Weir (The Martian) and E.L. James (Fifty Shades of Grey) found massive success outside traditional publishing. So, whether you’re a control freak or happy to hand off the reins, it’s about what fits your mindset and goals.
The Real ROI: What You Gain (Even If You Don’t Hit the Bestseller List)
Let’s face it: not every book hits the bestseller list, and that’s perfectly okay. The real reward of writing a book goes far beyond sales figures. It’s the intrinsic pride that comes from creating something uniquely yours. That feeling of creative fulfillment when you hold your book in your hands, knowing you’ve left a piece of yourself behind. And the best part? You’re leaving a legacy that could impact others for generations.
Beyond that, writing a book can open doors you never imagined. It’s a tool for business, a way to establish authority in your niche, and create evergreen content that works for you long after you’ve hit “publish.” In fact, studies show that 80% of authors say writing a book was one of the most fulfilling things they’ve ever done.
So, while book sales might not always be the measure of success, the personal growth from writing and the lasting impact you create are priceless. Writing a book isn’t just about recognition—it’s about what you gain along the way.
So… Should You Write a Book? The (Almost) Definitive Quiz
Alright, time for the quiz! If you answer “yes” to any of these, you might just be destined for the writing journey:
- Do you love stories more than sleep?
- Do you Google “how to write a novel” more than your ex?
- Can you handle rejection and rewrite anyway?
If you’re nodding along, it’s time to embrace the calling. So, are you ready to become an author? If the calling is real, the journey might be tough, but the rewards—both personal and creative—are more than worth it.