Writing a novel is equal parts magic and mayhem. But many first-time authors fall into the same traps again and again. Classic mistakes new writers make that stall progress and shake confidence. You start with a spark—an idea you can’t stop thinking about—and somewhere along the way, that spark gets buried under self-doubt, distraction, or the belief that you’re doing it all wrong. Sound familiar? You’re not alone.
Whether you’re just starting out or stuck in the murky middle, chances are you’re making a few of the same mistakes that trip up writers everywhere. But here’s the good news: once you know what those mistakes are, you can fix them—and get back to the story you were meant to write.
The mistake: You can’t move past chapter one because you’re still perfecting the first paragraph—for the 47th time.
Why it happens: Perfectionism disguises itself as productivity. It feels like writing, but it’s really fear in a fancy coat.
The Fix: Separate drafting from editing. Set a goal: 500 messy words a day, no backspacing. Once you finish the draft, then revise.
Consider using a timer-based app like Pomofocus.io to focus on flow over perfection. I love this tool based on the Pomodoro Technique by Francesco Cirillo, because the timer is already set at 25:00, you hit start and write until it gets down to 00.00, then reward yourself with the 5-minute break. A great way to train your writing muscle each day.
Mistake: Either you jump in without any sense of direction, or you build a 50-page outline and never start.
Why it happens: Plotters and pantsers both sabotage themselves—one by over-prepping, the other by flailing.
Fix: Try a flexible structure like the 5P Novel Method—know your protagonist, your point of change, and your purpose.
Curious how it works? Here’s why I created the 5P Novel Method and how it helps writers stay grounded and actually finish their novels.
Because, honestly, jumping into a novel with zero structure might feel exciting at first, but it often leads to plot holes, flat characters, and abandoned drafts. While spontaneity has its place, having a flexible roadmap—like a beat sheet or scene outline—can save you massive rewrites down the line.
You don’t need another clunky tool—you need a method that supports you in your process. 5P gives you structure without stifling your voice. Pair it with Sandra Scofield’s The Scene Book and you’ve got momentum with meaning.
Mistake: You spend more time reading about writing than actually writing.
Why it happens: Advice is addictive. There’s always another blog, podcast, or video that’ll finally make it click.
Fix: Limit input. Create before you consume. Most advice contradicts itself. Trust your process.
Joanna Penn’s The Creative Penn Podcast is a solid, industry-savvy listen — especially for balancing mindset and method.
Mistake: You write only when the muse shows up.
Why it happens: Creative myths die hard. Many writers romanticize spontaneity and ignore discipline.
Fix: Build a writing habit that’s less about inspiration and more about intention.
Mistake: You write alone, revise alone, and never share your work.
Why it happens: Fear of criticism or thinking you’re not “ready” for feedback.
Fix: Join a writing group or critique circle—even online. Fresh eyes will strengthen your work.
🔗Scribophile and Critique Circle are great places to start for structured feedback.
Mistake: You finish your draft and start querying agents—or self-publishing—immediately.
Why it happens: Excitement + Impatience. Totally understandable … but risky.
Fix: Let your manuscript rest. Revise. Get beta readers. Consider hiring a developmental editor.
Mistake: You skip writing emotional scenes or complex conflict—and your story falls flat.
Why it happens: These scenes are intimidating. You’re afraid of getting them wrong.
Fix: Lean into discomfort. The scenes you’re avoiding are where the story lives.
🔗Donald Maass’ The Emotional Craft of Fiction is a must-read for mastering internal character stakes.
Clicking this link won’t cost you a thing, but it throws a little love my way. And, hey, every coach needs caffeine and a reason to keep yelling, “just finish the draft!”
Mistake: You try to make your book universal by watering it down.
Why it happens: You want to be liked. You want to sell. So you play it safe.
Fix: Write for someone, not everyone. Knowing your ideal reader sharpens your voice.
Mistake: You get 20K words in, hit a wall, and start a shiny new project instead.
Why it happens: You confuse difficulty with failure. You think real writers don’t struggle.
Fix: Stick with it—even if it’s messy. The only difference between a writer and an aspiring one is finishing.
Mistake: You pour your soul into your book but never learn how to market it.
Why it happens: It’s overwhelming or feels ‘salesy.’
Fix: Start simple: build a basic website, collect emails, and learn to pitch. Treat writing like a career.
Industry expert, Jane Friedman, notes that traditional publishers have started to shift their approach, expecting authors to engage directly with readers and bring their own platform to the table, something that’s far more common in indie publishing.
You’re not too late. You’re not too old. You didn’t miss your moment. Real writers don’t have expiration dates. So, NO, you’re not behind. You’re hesitating. And that hesitation? It’s costing you. Not just the book, but your momentum, your voice, your shot. Stop waiting for the right season, perfect schedule, mythical burst of motivation. That’s how dreams die in draft folders.
This isn’t a race. But let’s be clear, not a warm up either. Get your butt in the chair. Open the doc. Start. Tomorrow’s not promised. But today? Today’s still yours.
You don’t have to fix everything at once. Progress comes from action, not perfection
If you’ve seen yourself in some of these mistakes new writers make? Good. That means you’re ready to shift. To do better. And that mindset? That’s what separates the writers who stay stuck from the ones who finish.
So choose your next move and mean it. Today. Then show up again tomorrow. And the next day. That’s how books get written.
And if you need a process that grows with you, not against you, the 5P Novel Method is a great place to start.
Sources: New York Times, Forbes, and Jane Friedman. Full links available upon request.
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