Writing has always been my passion, but turning that passion into a career took years of learning, trial and error, perseverance, and being too stubborn to quit. Over time, I’ve discovered that success as a writer isn’t just about talent—it’s about consistency, adaptability, and understanding the industry. Whether you want to write for television, film, books, or blogs, here are ten essential tips that will help you build a sustainable writing career.

1. Write Every Single Day

This may sound cliché, but it’s the foundation of success. Writing is a muscle—the more you use it, the stronger it gets. Even on days when inspiration is low, I set aside time to write. It doesn’t have to be perfect. It doesn’t even have to be good. The key is to keep showing up and improving with each word.

Tip: Set a daily word count goal. Even 500 words a day adds up to over 180,000 words a year—enough for multiple books or scripts.

2. Read the Best (and the Worst)

Great writers are great readers. I study the work of my favorite authors and screenwriters, analyzing what makes their writing effective. But I also read bad writing—it teaches me what not to do.

Try This: Read a script or novel and take notes. How is the dialogue structured? How is tension built? What keeps you turning the pages?

3. Find Your Unique Voice

Many writers struggle with mimicking others instead of developing their own voice. When I started writing, I tried to sound like my favorite authors. Eventually, I realized that my best work came when I wrote in a way that felt natural to me.

Tip: Write a short piece in different styles—humorous, dramatic, poetic—and see which one feels the most authentic.

4. Master the Art of Story Structure

No matter what type of writing you do, structure matters. Even experimental writing has a rhythm. For screenwriters, this means mastering three-act structure or the episodic format of TV. For novelists, it means understanding pacing and chapter structure.  Structure is key, and can mean the difference between a work that keeps readers on the edge of their seat, and a work that drags. 

Exercise: Outline your favorite movie or book and break down its structure. Where is the inciting incident? The climax? The resolution?

5. Accept That First Drafts Are Garbage (And That’s Okay!)

One of the biggest lessons I learned was that no first draft is perfect. I used to agonize over every sentence, but the truth is, writing is rewriting.

Mantra: “Done is better than perfect.” Get the draft finished first—polish comes later.

6. Build a Strong Network (Without Being Annoying)

Success in writing is not just about what you know, but who you know. I used to think networking meant attending every event and forcing conversations. But real networking is about building genuine relationships.  Don’t just focus on what this person can provide for you, but what can the two of you do together that will be fun and interesting.  Interesting people leave interesting lives, so find opportunities to live an interesting life that you are passionate about, and invite your networking buddies to tag along. 

Best Strategy: Instead of approaching people with, “Can you help me?” start with, “How can I support your work?” Building friendships naturally leads to opportunities.

7. Be Open to Feedback (But Trust Your Gut)

Early in my career, I resisted feedback because I was too attached to my work. Over time, I learned that constructive criticism makes writing stronger. However, not all feedback is useful.

Rule of Thumb: If multiple people give the same note, consider changing it. But if it’s just one person’s opinion, trust your instincts.

8. Learn the Business Side of Writing

I used to think that being a great writer was enough. It’s not. Understanding contracts, royalties, agents, and pitching is just as important.

Pro Tip: Follow industry professionals on Twitter (I refuse to call it X), read trade publications (Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, Publishers Weekly), and take online courses on the business of writing.

9. Develop Thick Skin and Keep Going

Rejection is part of the process. Every successful writer I admire has faced dozens, if not hundreds, of rejections. I remind myself that one “no” doesn’t mean I’m not talented—it just means I haven’t found the right fit yet.  My screenwriting professor, Academy award winner Seth Winston, said that writing is something you need to pour every ounce of your passion into, and then as soon as it goes out for pitches and submissions, you need to drop all love and emotional attachment for it.  Love your work, but don’t obsess over it.

Mindset Shift: Treat rejection as redirection. Each “no” gets you closer to the right opportunity.

10. Take Risks and Write What Excites You

The best writing comes from passion and authenticity. When I write something I truly care about, it resonates more with readers. Chase the idea that excites you, even if it feels risky.

Challenge: Write something outside your comfort zone—a new genre, a personal essay, or a bold opinion piece. See where it takes you.

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Final Thoughts

Becoming a successful writer isn’t about luck—it’s about discipline, perseverance, and growth. If you write every day, seek feedback, build relationships, and stay passionate, success will come. Start now. Your future self will thank you.

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