Top Mistakes Writers Make in Their Early Careers – And How to Avoid Them

Writing is often seen as a solitary journey—just you, your thoughts, and the keyboard. But while creativity and passion fuel your work, the road to success as a writer is paved with common mistakes that can derail even the most promising careers. Especially in the early stages, writers often fall into traps that not only stall their progress but also leave them feeling discouraged.

So, what are the top mistakes writers make in their early careers, and more importantly, how can you avoid them? Whether you’re writing novels, blogs, or freelance articles, this guide will help you navigate the pitfalls and set yourself up for long-term success.

1. Underestimating the Importance of Editing

One of the biggest misconceptions among new writers is that a first draft needs to be perfect. Many writers get so wrapped up in trying to make every sentence flawless that they forget the real magic happens in the editing phase. Early in my career, I made this mistake—I'd write something, feel satisfied, and hit 'publish' immediately. Big mistake.

What to do instead:

Give yourself permission to write a messy first draft. Just get the ideas down. Then, step away from your work for a while before…