The difference between hobby writers and published authors

On the surface, it may appear that there isn't a great deal of difference between hobby writers and published authors...

...they both love writing, of course. And they both probably have ideas, notebooks, half-finished drafts, and a story they’ll finish one day...

...But here’s the defining difference between those who write and those who get published...(and by the way, it isn't talent!)...

...The real difference is the COMMITMENT to completion.

Hobby writers write when they feel inspired. Published authors write when it’s inconvenient. They write on days when they don't necessarily feel inspired. They write in between meetings, family responsibilities, house chores...they write even though LIFE is in full chaotic motion.

Published authors treat writing as a practice, not a mood. They understand that consistency, not brilliance, is what gets books finished.

Published authors also make decisions earlier. They decide:

• This is a real project

• This book deserves to be finished

• I’m willing to learn, revise, and be uncomfortable

  
  

Hobby writers often wait for certainty before acting. Published authors act before certainty arrives.

Another difference? Ownership.

Published authors take responsibility for their writing journey. They don’t outsource thinking. They ask questions, seek feedback, and learn the business side of publishing; even when it feels overwhelming.

Hobby writers tend to stay in the “one day” phase:

• One day I’ll edit it

• One day I’ll look at publishing

• One day I’ll feel confident enough

That “one day” is rarely on the calendar.

Then there’s fear, because yes, fear is part of the process. Publishing a book is a very emotive process - you are sharing your work with the world; sticking your head above the proverbial parapet.

Published authors feel imposter syndrome too. They worry about whether the book is good enough. They second-guess their choices. But the difference is they publish anyway.

They understand that confidence comes after action, not before it.

This doesn’t mean hobby writers are “less than.” Many people write purely for joy...and you know what?...that is totally valid. But if your goal is to see your book in the world, you can’t rely on hobby habits.

Published authors build systems:

• Writing routines that survive busy lives

• Deadlines that create momentum

• Support networks that keep them accountable

• 
  

They stop waiting to feel like a “real writer”, and start behaving like one... they set their intention, and they stick to it!

The truth is simple, but uncomfortable: You don’t become a published author by wanting it.

You become one by finishing, learning, deciding, and showing up long after the novelty wears off.

If you want to become a published author, you need to COMMIT to the process; it's as simple as that!