Thread by @ItsKieranDrew

I've been writing online for over 1000 hours now.

Here're 7 things I would NOT do if I had to start from zero tomorrow:

Most people who start writing, quit.

The key to consistency is early momentum.

I made nearly every mistake under the sun when I began my journey.

Here they are, so you don't have to:

Build a Blog

It’s tempting to set up a website, but the truth is no one will visit. Not for a long time.

And that time is crucial.

Early on you need feedback to grow. And writing to no one is lonely and depressing.

Go to where people are. Then take them to where you want.

Focus on Quality

I used to spend 30 hours on a blog post. I’d be lucky if 30 people read it.

The truth is that perfect is the enemy of progress. Repetition gets results, not relentless editing.

Instead, focus on volume.

Quantity precedes quality.

Be Anonymous

I get it. Writing is vulnerable. You don’t want friends to find you. But even if they did, they won't read your shit.

When you use your name you take responsibility. You work harder.

Plus, people want to connect with real people. Not mindset accounts.

Read Books

As someone guilty of this, trust me:

Reading can be procrastination.

There’s only one investment of time that will get you what you want, and that’s writing. A lot.

So yes, pick up a book or two. Learn copy. But start publishing way before you're comfortable.

Spread Across Platforms

I wrote on Twitter, Medium, Reddit and Insta. What I know now:

If you try to grow everywhere, you grow nowhere.

The truth is there’re many paths to success as a writer, but you only find them if you're willing to commit to one.

Find Clients

Getting paid to write is fantastic.

But chances are, early on, your writing sucks. Mine did. And building a freelancing career takes time and effort – time that could be spent learning.

So if money is the aim, take 3-6 months to focus on the craft.

It pays off.

Start a Newsletter

As a writer, your email list is your MOST important asset.

But sending weekly emails to a small list is a waste. Instead, double down on Twitter. Plug your lead magnet to collect emails.

Then start emailing frequently when you're ready for the next stage.

Writing online is a magnet for success - but first you need to prove to yourself that you have what it takes.

So follow this advice. Start on Twitter. Avoid shiny object syndrome and commit to simply writing.

At one point, you'll be surprised how far you've gone.

Thanks for reading.

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