6 Common Pitfalls to Finishing Your Book and How to Avoid Them

Why do so many people say they want to write a book but don’t? The truth is a great number of people actually start. They get excited about their story, and the passion drives them to write several chapters, sometimes even finish a first draft.

But, then something happens and the momentum is lost.

Does this sound like you? Your steam runs out, leaving your manuscript languishing in computer purgatory? 

Too often we are derailed by pitfalls that if we are cognizant of them, can be averted. Awareness of, and facing these drawbacks head-on, are the secrets to distinguishing yourself from other writers. Because you will finish your book.

The trick is figuring out why you’ve stalled, and circumventing those hazards. Here are six pitfalls that have the potential to derail you…and what you can do about them:

1- Distraction/Procrastination: We’ve all been there. We want to write but allow everything to stand in our way. Why do we do this?

Perhaps your ideas are not gelled enough. If so, make an outline. Not all writers choose to outline their books. Some just go with the flow. But even a general framework--such as a synopsis of each chapter--will keep you on track. Following your pre-planned outline offers structure and a guideline of what specifically needs to be worked on. It also allows for regular opportunities to check off an item, providing a tangible sense of accomplishment.

A method I have found particularly useful is timing my writing. I’ll set a timer for 25-minute stints, and keep track of how many I’ve completed by the end of the day. I’m frequently amazed at how much time I’ve spent writing. This process will motivate you to beat your previous record. Compete with yourself!

Turn off your phone. Enough said.

Treat your writing like a job. Maybe your kids, your spouse, your pet, or the gorgeous day outside distracts you. Writing may not be your day job, but it requires the consistency and dedication of a paid profession. Create reasonable deadlines or specific work goals, such as committing to writing 250 words today. Make the goals moderately challenging but doable. Give yourself a sense of urgency. There's no boss looking over your shoulder, but the change in perspective will lead to results. For those who like the communal approach, WriNaNo is a terrific way to self-motivate and derive encouragement from other writers just like you.

2- You have no new ideas: Sometimes you find yourself stuck in your story, unsure how to move the plot forward. When writer’s block hits, it’s a prime time to go back and re-read what you already have; talk it out with a trusted colleague or family member; edit it, and familiarize yourself again with the material you may not have seen in a while. This process often stirs up new ideas.

When the mind is relaxed, ideas are free to enter it. While it may sound odd, another very helpful tactic I've relied upon for moving forward in my story is to take a shower. Yup, that’s what I wrote. Other times, inspiration hits while I swim or walk in nature. When I’m stuck, these methods nearly always help me find the next turn in the story. Many writers have found their own 'go-to' that allows for new ideas to flow. So remember, relaxation often leads to inspiration.

In that vein, how many times have you been lying in bed, about to fall asleep, when you're hit with an amazing idea? You're certain you’ll remember it in the morning, but when the sun comes up, it has evaporated. Tip: Keep a pen and pad near your bed.

3- You have too many ideas. You’re right. It’s the opposite of pitfall #2. And if handled properly, it's a blessing. Problems arise, however, when you chase too many ideas, never following through completely on one. Pick the concept with the most legs and go with it.

4- Lack of confidence. Even those of you with stellar self-esteem can entertain doubts if your work is worth finishing. Trust your gut. If you think something is off, it probably is. While what you've written may require a hard and often painful look, it doesn’t necessarily mean you need to start over or ditch the whole draft.

How can you know if your work has real potential to become a published book or is ready for the scrap heap?

Find reputable beta readers. Search on sites like Goodreads and Facebook groups. Offer to swap chapters or full manuscripts with someone familiar with your genre. It may take a few tries till you find the right ones, but with a little effort, you'll find an objective party giving you helpful feedback. If like me, you have friends or family you can count on for honest feedback--who won’t sugar coat--ask them. Be prepared to hear what they have to say. If you get upset with the input, you’ve defeated the purpose, and those people won't risk offering it again. Listen openly and consider making changes as objectively as you can.

5- Fear of putting your work out there. You read your draft and feel confident. You love what you’ve written. It feels as good--if not better than--much of what you’ve read from famous authors in your genre. But, let’s face it, reading your book on your computer for your eyes only, and having your labor of love out there for the whole world to see, are two very different things.

Believe in yourself. If you’ve received positive feedback from beta readers and trusted family and friends, take the leap. Polish where necessary. This means getting the book edited; meeting your genre requirements for elements such as formatting and word count, and producing your final manuscript for querying or self-publication. Remember, you’ll never know how your book will be received by a wider readership until you try. What’s the worst that can happen? Whatever you learn from the first experience will be enormously helpful for the next.

6- You lack knowledge in one or more publishing-related areas. You're confident in your writing ability, but skills such as composing effective query letters, formatting, or editing, are out of your league.

Educate yourself. Subscribe to online courses, many of which are free. Join a writers’ group or pay professionals to work on the manuscript with you. At the risk of sounding overly dramatic, permitting your almost-done creation to sit around without giving it the final polish, is nothing short of tragic.

Ultimately the most powerful way to ensure completing your book, and holding that magnificent, hard-earned work in your hands, is to keep writing.