New writers:
Remember that as you learn, adapt, and make connections, things get better over time.
I started the NOC four years ago.
Back then, we only had entries from three or four states. The next year, there were more. The next year, even more than that.
We went from having one or two referral sources (mostly Craigslist and word-of-mouth!) to having sites like The Writer magazine, Reedsy, and Poets & Writers send us contestants (without ever advertising or posting about the contest anywhere except The Writer)!
Now, imagine if I had stopped that first year.
The contest would not have gained as much steam as it has. I wouldn’t have met all the wonderful judges who have come in as guests to rate submissions. I would never have gotten to read so many wonderful pieces of writing by so many fantastic, published authors.
So, no matter how slow, difficult, or pointless things may seem now, persevere. You’re not going to know and understand everything about this writing business out of the gate. That’s okay! We all have to start somewhere.
The point is to become a stronger writer and a more savvy businessperson with each passing day so that things get easier for you year after year.
If no one else believes in you, I do. Keep going! ♥
