So, you want to write a book, but you can’t bring yourself to actually write it. I know the feeling, and just like you, I hate it. As someone who has gotten 125 pages into a story I was writing before giving up because I felt too pressured to be perfect, I have discovered a fair share of tips for writing that I want to share with you.

The first thing I fully stand by is to set aside time where you just write without thinking about being perfect. In doing so, you can trust your own creative process without second guessing whether or not it’s good enough to be read by others. Write freely, and when it’s all done and you’re ready to share your work, you can finally go back and check over your work. The biggest setback while writing is trying to figure out what your phantom readers are going to think. However, you shouldn’t pressure yourself. You are writing what you are passionate about, and there will always be someone out there who will want to read it. Your work may not make it on the New York Times’ Bestsellers list, but your writing will always reach the audience it is meant to. In the end, you are writing for yourself. If your passion and purpose in this world is to write—write! Write everything that comes to mind; do it for yourself, and don’t hold yourself to the levels of your favorite authors. You will always have time to improve, develop, and hone your skills.

Secondly, have a general idea of what you want to happen. This can help you figure out what it is you want to write about. Again, it doesn’t have to be perfect, and it can change at any point. This is just to give you a sense of stability. There’s a general plot you want to follow with vague plot points, and now you can just let yourself write without feeling like you’re lost or grasping for straws.

Thirdly, don’t compare yourself to the books you’ve read or the authors you enjoy. You are your own person, and your writing style will always differ from what you have previously seen on the market. You have your own voice and your own experiences, and these will both impact your writing. Keep this in mind, and don’t stop writing just because you think your book wouldn’t measure up to others like it.

Writing a book seems like it should be easy. When you’re passionate about something, it just feels like it should all work out with no complications. Unfortunately, that isn’t realistic. However, I am positive that we can all write something that is meaningful and worthwhile. Don’t overthink it and try not to put so much pressure on yourself. You are creative and talented and are able to create whatever you put your heart to. One day, you may end up on the bestsellers list or you may end up with a publishing deal. You never know what you can achieve. So, don’t give up and don’t sell yourself short. Just keep writing, and everything will fall into place as soon as you find your confidence and stride. Best of luck to you!