By DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills

Writers daily receive blog posts that offer advice to build their careers. The publishing world has many sides, and each facet needs attention.

We read—

1. How to be successful
2. How to sell more books
3. How to strengthen characterization or content
4. How to research and interview
5. How to increase exposure through social media
6. How to find and reach targeted readers 
7. How to write a synopsis
8. How to develop a proposal
9. How to network with other writers

And the list goes on. We are thrilled to have the valuable information at our fingertips, and we establish time to read and study the content.

Have we considered the 5 ways to destroy a writing career? 

A writer decides he/she has taken enough instruction on the craft and knows all there is about writing.

Stop for a moment before following through with this career-killer. We never stop learning. When we do, we stagnate and die. This is not only true for our writing life but also for every breath we take. 

Decide now to spend quality time every day growing in every facet of the publishing world.

A writer chooses to eliminate social media. It’s just a fad and learning to keep up with it is a pain.

Stop and listen to reason about social media. We live in an age of worldwide communication. The best and most consistent way of reaching out to others is through a social media platform. Successful writers understand social media is about building relationships and helping readers with their lives by offering our expertise. Our platforms brand us as real, caring people.

Choose now to explore the platforms where your readers hang out. Engage with people and create lasting friendships.

A writer eliminates prayer about his/her writing. God doesn’t care about sales, and there’s no need to consult Him.

Giving God just a portion of our lives means we aren’t embracing the God of the universe. The moment we pick and choose the areas of God’s jurisdiction is the moment we fall into a well of disbelief. 

Eliminate doubt in the God who is faithful even when we are not. Our relationship with Him is more important than any accolades the world can offer.

A writer neglects to take care of his/her body. Exercise is a pain, and proper nutrition is for health fanatics.

Varying reasons exist why people abandon sound nutritional practices and keeping their bodies in shape. Medical stats prove those who choose an unhealthy diet and don’t exercise are more likely to contract life-altering diseases.

We can’t neglect our health. We need to champion our body. It’s vital for proper body and brain function.  

A writer won’t help a serious writer who is willing to do the work but needs guidance and encouragement.

We were all once beginners, searching for tools and guidance. We made mistakes, learned from them, and resolved to become better writers. 

If a writer refuses to help a struggling writer, what will happen to the next generation of quality prose?

What is a word of encouragement you can give a struggling writer?

DiAnn Mills is a bestselling author who believes her readers should expect an adventure. She is a storyteller. Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists; won two Christy Awards; and been finalists for the RITA, Daphne Du Maurier, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol award contests.

DiAnn is a founding board member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, a member of Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Mystery Writers of America, Suspense Sister, and International Thriller Writers. She is co-director of The Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference and The Mountainside Marketing Conference with social media specialist Edie Melson. She teaches writing workshops around the country. DiAnn is active online and would love to connect with readers on any of the social media platforms listed at www.diannmills.com.

Follow DiAnn on Twitter: @DiAnnMills