5 Lessons I Learned While Writing My First Book

Writing a book is an incredible journey, one that teaches you just as much about yourself as it does about the craft. As I reflect on the process of writing my debut book, I’ve uncovered some valuable lessons that shaped both my story and my perspective as a writer. Here are five lessons that stood out to me the most:

1. Start Before You’re Ready

If I had waited for the “perfect” moment to start writing, I’d still be waiting. There will always be reasons to hold off—busy schedules, fear of failure, or uncertainty about where to begin. But the truth is, there’s no better time than now. Taking that first step, however imperfect, sets everything else in motion.

2. Your First Draft Won’t Be Perfect (And That’s Okay)

I used to think every sentence had to be flawless the moment it was written. This mindset held me back and made progress slow. It wasn’t until I embraced the concept of the "messy first draft" that I allowed myself the freedom to simply write. Editing is where the magic happens, and perfection isn’t the goal in the initial stages—progress is.

3. Seek Feedback, But Stay True to Your Vision

Feedback is invaluable, and I’m incredibly grateful to the people who provided thoughtful insights on my manuscript. However, I also learned that not every piece of advice aligns with your vision. It’s important to listen with an open mind but remain confident in the heart of your story. You are the ultimate authority on your work.

4. Writing Is Equal Parts Passion and Discipline

While I love the creative process, there were many days when writing felt more like a discipline than a passion. Consistency was key. Showing up to write—even when inspiration didn’t strike—helped me build momentum and eventually complete the manuscript. Writing is as much about commitment as it is about creativity.

5. Celebrate Every Milestone

The journey of writing a book is filled with small victories: finishing a chapter, solving a tricky plot issue, or simply hitting a daily word count. I learned to celebrate these moments, no matter how small they seemed. Each step forward is a reminder of the progress you’ve made.

Writing my first book was one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences of my life. These lessons not only helped me complete my manuscript but also made the journey more meaningful. If you’re working on your own creative project, I hope these insights resonate with you and remind you that every step, no matter how small, brings you closer to your goal.

What lessons have you learned from pursuing your creative dreams? I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below!