What I did wrong - waited until I was in my 60s to start taking classes and spending time writing. What I did right - I started taking classes and spending time writing. It's never too late! Thank you for your straightforward and relatable style. I've never subscribed to a UA-cam channel before. You, however, are worth it!
DID RIGHT: As per your list, I still have not given up. DID WRONG: Spent months (years) researching How To Write instead of writing. Big mistake. The best way to get better at writing is ... writing.
That's the biggest problem that I see today, that people say they want to be writers but they really don't want to put in the hard work to actually write. They want a secret to getting around all of the hard work, they want a shortcut to success and none exists. The only way to be a writer, or to become a better writer, is to put your butt in the seat and produce words.
DID RIGHT: Studied professional authors, instead of thinking I knew it all. DID WRONG: Procrastinating. (Hence the stuff I did right). Excellent video. I really enjoy your honesty and humility.
WENT WELL. Never gave up. Believed in myself. Learned to forgive reviewers who accidentally ate gunpowder for breakfast. WENT LESS WELL. Took private, negative comments too seriously. Perfectionism. Thanks for the great vids.
Fantastic advice. Especially the reviewers who eat gunpowder for breakfast. LOL Totally agree with taking negative comments too seriously in the beginning. Made a lot of bad decisions because I couldn’t separate myself from my work. Thanks for your comment. :)
Just stumbled upon this when i was searching on how to start becoming a writer Your giggle at your book about the vegetables vs. processed foods is so adorable. That's me when I think of something totally funny/embarrassing in my head. Thank you for a very insightful video!
As my first fantasy novel is about to hit shelves this Fall, I really want to say a huge THANK YOU for taking your time to give us some advice! Greetings from Greece!
Thanks for the tips I think the biggest tip I need to keep in mind is when I do start publishing I shouldn't be discouraged when I'm not getting as much sales as I want or have a good amount of readers
I originally studied painting and a little psychology, and I worked as an artist almost my whole life (soon turning 40). In the past year, I've mostly stopped all of that and switched to writing full time, every day. Packed with years of diverse experiences, I was ready to write. The biggest (and funniest) surprise was how much of writing is *not* writing. By that, I'm talking about things like the classic tip to "show, don't tell" and all of the intentional omissions that help create suspense while allowing the reader to wonder, to figure out, and to enjoy her/his own imagination. It makes a lot of sense, but it still blew my mind and took some getting used to: a lot of writing is *not* writing.
Sounds a lot like me. Also soon 40, been drawing and painting my entire life, thought that was my life's goal. Discovered writing and have barely done anything else since (that's about 1,5 years ago). :D Only, I don't write full time, because I haven't finished and published a book yet, so I still have my normal day-job. There are so many things in writing one discovers as one goes. Like, not showing something, or just what order to show them in, and such things. Pretty cool. :)
I am just starting my writing career! Currently in college to study creative writing. Something I did right: Not giving up!! I've pushed myself to keep going and to be alive so I could be here today. I started college right out of high school and it's going well. I've been writing for 4 years now, but have been writing novels for 1-2 years. Something I did wrong: Procrastinate. All my books are WIP's and it frustrates me. But I have a duty of graduating college, therefore, I will have to keep sacrificing my time to not write all the time. My college has a publication course that will help me out a lot with going about getting literacy agents and publishers. Plus they have a writing center that's free that I can pop into any time and get more professional help with my writing. I will admit, I started writing on Wattpad with fan fictions (still do) and I have a fan base starting on there and it makes me happy to see that people do enjoy my original work put into the fanfics.
Thanks just found your videos (this one and one on Scrivener) and am already learning things! I am just dipping my toe into fiction writing. I have been doing technical and medical writing within day/side jobs for a long time but I have never published nonfiction or fiction. I see good stories as gifts because that is how I see the books I read (total avid reader since childhood) and I crave the creativity of it. I also have a book or two of nonfiction in me - there is information I want to share. At the moment I feel overwhelmed with all of the things I know I need to learn before self-publishing. At the moment it is going to be Scrivener and short stories...... baby step 1. Thanks I will check out your other videos!
I am in the first year of my writing “career” I was today years old when I found this page. I just want to say thank you for helping in this process and giving great advice along the way.
What did I do well? Good writing starts with a strong hit, not a beaten phrase or cliché. What have I done wrong? I forgot that not only the authors are bastards, but also some publishers. As we can see, life is the best teacher. ;) I really liked this episode and that's why you have a new subscriber from now!
I gave you a thumbs up for that 'school of hard-knocks' joke which made me laugh out loud. I really like you. You are a great person. And I adore all your videos. Thank you for making them. Writing is so crazy and fun - I didn't know I've been a pantser for 40 years until you enlightened me the term even existed! I wish you the very best. You deserve it. Oh! - and tangent: I tried Scrivner, but found I liked Plottr better to plot, it's fun and pretty, and colorful, and helpful, visually showing me time lines and subplots and what I'm doing, then I just sit down and write my chapters in Word. But without you, I wouldn't have discovered either! Not to say at some point that I won't take what I've plotted in Plottr and drop it to write in Scrivner. God, writing has changed since I banged out my first novel in Grade 8 on a mint-green electric typewriter that was my grandfathers from the 1960s. Looked like Frank Underwood's "Underwood' typewriter in house of cards but green. When I started writing there was no internet and no books on writing. I'm glad we can all confer like this. I am glad you have taken up the cause to help others be better. You have truly helped me. Thank you, again, Sir.
Thank you so much. It’s never too late to discover you’re a plotter. I am glad that my videos helped you. I’ve never heard of Plottr, so thank you for sharing that with me. :)
I am wanting to get into this realm. i love to film, photograph, draw, paint a lot of things, but writing feels like a place i should go too. I have been thinking about a blog,
Thank you so much for the tips! Ironically I feel like one of the few people that reads the terms of service when I sign up for things like subscriptions, purchases, etc..
I looooove the sponsor spot! I have a continuing education in the School of Hard Knocks. 🤭 Tip #2: soooo true. We aren’t entitled to a darned thing. Tip #6: not enough authors take advantage of affiliate relationships. I’ve even seen some authors demonize it. That’s just silly. Tip #8: I’ll have to show you how GIMP is far better than you know. I’ve showed my wife who loves Photoshop some tricks and tips on GIMP that blew her away. 😀 Tip #11: Hahahah so true THIS is why I love your videos, Michael! I really dig your deep analysis and thorough coverage. Keep up the awesome work.
Thanks dude. We’ll have to chat on GIMP. It frustrated me more than anything. I hear Affinity is pretty good alternative. Maybe the GIMP is a great video for you to do! ;)
Author Level Up hahahahaha I actually do have a series showing GIMP. It needs updating, because GIMP just rolled out sweet new features. Fun fact: did you know you can actually produce animation through GIMP? Another fun fact: absolutely no one who has grown to like Photoshop transitions to GIMP. Haha so, you’ll be a tough nut to crack.
Hi Michael, I just discovered your channel when someone in my writer's group recommended your "Learn Scrivenor in 20 Min" video. I love the other couple of videos I watched so far and thought I'd drop a note to say nice work! Love your authenticity : ) Made me think, "Here's someone I'd love to chat about writing over a latte!" I look forward to going through your other material!
Great advice! I’ve been taking a stab at writing recently these past few months, it’s kind of like a mini screenplay/ short story project. It’s my first time taking myself seriously to write something creatively and at least meaningful to me.
I just subscribed to your page . This video was very subliming. I'm interested in the medium, that's why I'm here. The way how you convey the process of writing, hopefully will enable me to finish my abstract ideas. Thanks for sharing.
One thing I feel I did right was writing a book that is my personal story. That aspect has helped me sell more books! The one thing I did wrong... I have two things that stick out. First, I didn’t have all formats ready at release; paperback, ebook, audio. Second thing, I didn’t have a big enough advanced reading team. Now I know for the next one! 👍🏻
2:23 - 'I wrote a SciFi series called "Moderation online" and it's about a group of terrorist vegetables attempting to take down an empire of processed foods'. Whahahahahahahahah. I'm tempted to buy it. Friendly suggestion: You may wanna think about changing the cover art. I don't find it very appealing and I'm willing to bet many people will feel the same. It may be why you don't sell many copies.
A good, informative, and clear speaker offering information that writers can appreciate. The presentation is direct and engaging. Wondrium (The Great Courses) should contract with this author to record a course on writing.
Excellent! Thank you! I just subscribed. In my ongoing career of homeschooling: DID WRONG: Had a tendency to get side-tracked, exploring rabbit trails. DID RIGHT: Had a tendency to get side-tracked, exploring rabbit trails. Similar in writing career and everything else. What can seem like a detour can turn into the best idea ever, when my focus zeroes in on that inspiration! The challenge is to identify distractions which are not serving my purpose. One thing is clear: Your channel is worthwhile! Thankful to one of my writing mentors for recommending your video!
"What can seem like a detour can turn into the best idea ever, when my focus zeroes in on that inspiration!" - That qualifies for comment of the week right there! :) Thanks for subbing and welcome aboard!
Hi, I'm just stopping by to learn from your experience. I've been following you for a few years and appreciate your basic simple down to earth common sense. Keep up the good work and thank you for all the support. Take Care. Rose☺ Did wrong: waited too long before writing and publishing my books Did right: followed you and did not give up on my writing
Michael, i have listened to a number of your youtube videos and appreciate your straightforward style. Thanks for making these available. H.D. Walker (dale)
Just bought Scrivener today Michael, and your video has been an enormous help in simplifying the level up experience. Thank you young man. Keep on keeping on. My name is Michael White. I am a dentist of 38 years, and if you ever need a complimentary 2nd opinion I am your man.
Hi, Michael! Thank you for all your videos. As for the answers to your inquiry: Did right: Wrote my first draft in 3 weeks. Did wrong: Spent too much time accumulating free books and resources on writing, and then getting overwhelmed at the sheer amount that I had to study, rather than writing/editing.
I love your attitude! Thank you for making videos. You and people like you are inspiring me to keep writing. I’ve been writing fiction for years but haven’t gotten published because I didn’t take it seriously. Now I’m working hard to do research and finish drafting one of my many novels. Keep making videos-you’re great!
I am so glad I watched your video for Scrivener and got hooked onto your videos. You give solid advise and genuine, practical tips... no wishy-washy nonsense! Thank you for that!
Great suggestions. Things I did wrong: Plan, plan, plan, plan, plan..... I have entire worlds designed on the pc these last twenty years. Not much in the writing department though. Things I did right: Committed to writing daily and having all planning done in two weeks max.
IM SO HAPPY THAT I FOUND YOUR CHANNEL! thinking about taking my writing more seriously, and I'm so happy to have your channel as a guide to getting started! So excited!! thank you for sharing so many helpful tips!
Thank you Michael for continuing to create and produce your videos. I just recently stumbled across your channel and am now binge-watching (12 videos deep and counting). The information is timely and motivating. Just the spark I needed. YOU are easily on my 'inspiration board'.
The algorithm, with its eternal wisdom, brought me here for the first time today, and I'm so glad it did. What an engaging video with heartfelt advice. While I enjoy writing for pleasure, I'm not an aspiring author (at the moment, anyway), and yet I subscribed just to hear more of what you have to say. Thanks for making youtube a little more pleasant with your content. 👍
I thoroughly enjoyed your video (this one) and I've looked at a couple more - I will spend time on others as time goes on. You have a professional appearance and delivery, I like your speaking voice and you have good information to share. You mention about some things that sell, others that don't and I have seen UA-cam vids that were AWFUL and they got millions of hits, and yours (such as this one) much fewer - which translates into numbers can be deceiving. You also provide helpful links (such as the one you did on outlining) and as a result, I've gotten to be more familiar w/ some of the biggies in this industry. Keep up the good work on your channel, and you should be proud of what you've accomplished (and I'm sure you are). Thank you again for your contribution to this field.
This is a FANTASTIC video, sir. I've been adrift on the marketing sea for such a long time. Your amiable, forthright tone and excellent quality advice have really given me hope. Thank you, Michael. DID WRONG: I expected my first couple of books would sell (albeit modestly) because they were so clever. DID RIGHT: Watched this video.
I am new to writing a book, but I have journaled forever. I would say my strength is addressing things that are real life-simple terms in a bullet point fashion. Now, at the same time, my writing voice is as if you and I are sitting in front of one another talking and having tea. I started watching you today because I was searching for knowledge about writer software to use. I watched a few of your you tubes today about writing and the industry as well. I think the one on "how to outline your novel in 10 different ways", spoke to me the most. I am trying to find my writing style but I think I already have that down pat. Its the writing from beginning to end in journal format. I am not for certain, but I will play with it, so I can figure myself out! I think its the Dean Wesley Smith, "writing in the dark", method. I am armed with info thanks to you.The info on Scrivener was great. I think, why bother buying the wrong software, if I need something else entirely to fit me. For example, if I free write- no punctuation when I'm on a roll, does spell correct help if I hit the wrong keys and does it punctuate for me? I'm fast on paper, but slow on keyboard, so I don't want to lose my moment correcting and stopping, you know? Any suggestions on that? Thanks so much.
Hello, thanks for watching my videos! The short answer is that no, the spelling and grammar checker will not correct your punctuation unfortunately. Sometimes it will but I wouldn’t count on it.
I know this is an older video, but I am embarking on my writing journey and your honesty and genuine sincerity is refreshing. Thank you for a great video :)
Great share! thank you. I only just finished my first book and exploring the online publishing world. Did right: finished my book, took me almost 1,5 year full time. Did wrong: perfectionism and postpone taking steps I am not sure of, especially now in this new unknown territory.
Thank you for the advance. I want to be an author but I'm so far behind the learning curve. But your video gives me inspiration to learn more and dive in.
Very helpful, Michael. In my opinion never giving up is key. I am in this industry for 22 years and I have countless authors seen come and go only after a few books. Especially in Self-publishing. Sad, but true.
I am finally at a point in my aspirations to be a writer to write. Let’s just say things are finally quiet enough to hear my creative voice. So coming across your channel was a treat. You’re well-spoken and thorough in your presentation. Oh and HONEST! Thanks. I subscribed.
The first video I watched of yours and it was great content. Most creators on UA-cam mention the same stuff over and over again, but you gave more - I didn't even think about the podcast or press kit idea. As a novice, I'm not worried about the actual act of writing but more so growing an audience of readers. Just subbed and going through your other videos. p.s. I dig the glasses - I have a very similar pair
I’ve always had so much stories in mind to create a book about it, but i’m so dumb that I forget all the words to describe things that I just write it so undetailed and unexpected then I thought it’d turn out. I have no idea how to word my writing!! 😭
Thanks so much for the tips. I learnt alot. Recently it has been on my mind to start, praying about it to. Keep up the great work. Your video was great, clear, honest, and straight to the point.
Thanks for this video! I laughed out loud at the School of Hard Knocks joke. It’s good to hear some of these tips, even if some of them seem obvious! Knowing others have been through all of this before gives me home!
I'm so happy I found this channel, your voice is so soothing and you give awesome advice. Thank you for sharing your experience. I hope we can all become good writers like you
Thank you for this video. I'm only a teenager but I want to become an author when I'm older. Sometimes the thought I'd overwhelming and scary. But thank you. You never have up and that gives me confidence about the future :)
What a nice surprise to come across you tonight, Michael. I found your name through C.S. Lakin, my favorite writing guru! I listened to your podcast while cooking my dinner and I will listen again because I find you inspiring! I've been working on my first serious novel after writing tons of memoirs and short stories over the decades. 2020 will be my year to publish the novel. But as you know, it isn't easy. I sit down and work every day. I'm in the editing stage...and now I'm more terrified than I was when I finished the first draft. I needed to hear all you said, and I will be back soon. Warmly, Suzi
Hi Suzi! Welcome aboard, and thank you for the nice words. :) Writing a novel definitely isn’t easy, but it’s one of the most gratifying things you will ever do. Good luck with your book!
2 minutes into the video and I already subscribed! haha...I don't usually subscribe this fast (ever), but you sounded genuine and like a realistic person. Anyways, I'll continue watching the video now.
What I did wrong - waited until I was in my 60s to start taking classes and spending time writing. What I did right - I started taking classes and spending time writing. It's never too late! Thank you for your straightforward and relatable style. I've never subscribed to a UA-cam channel before. You, however, are worth it!
DID RIGHT: As per your list, I still have not given up.
DID WRONG: Spent months (years) researching How To Write instead of writing.
Big mistake. The best way to get better at writing is ... writing.
Yep, so true. Really easy to spend time researching when you could just be doing it. :)
That's the biggest problem that I see today, that people say they want to be writers but they really don't want to put in the hard work to actually write. They want a secret to getting around all of the hard work, they want a shortcut to success and none exists. The only way to be a writer, or to become a better writer, is to put your butt in the seat and produce words.
Literally watching this video about to dive Into a learning how to write rabbit hole. I’ll just open a google docs and do some stuff instead
#agree
TELL ME ABOUT IT. I am guilty of that same problem.
Vegetable SciFi/Fantasy is a hard genre to crack, lol.
Wrong: Procrastinating, not making an outline
Right: Editing, writing down ideas that came to me
DID RIGHT: Studied professional authors, instead of thinking I knew it all.
DID WRONG: Procrastinating. (Hence the stuff I did right).
Excellent video. I really enjoy your honesty and humility.
It's wild how so much of this applies to not only writing but also music and visual media
WENT WELL. Never gave up. Believed in myself. Learned to forgive reviewers who accidentally ate gunpowder for breakfast.
WENT LESS WELL. Took private, negative comments too seriously. Perfectionism.
Thanks for the great vids.
Fantastic advice. Especially the reviewers who eat gunpowder for breakfast. LOL
Totally agree with taking negative comments too seriously in the beginning. Made a lot of bad decisions because I couldn’t separate myself from my work.
Thanks for your comment. :)
"Some authors can be dicks." Oh my goodness lol Thank you for your honesty. Subscribed!
I’m just starting my first novel. So glad I found your channel. Great advice and awesome attitude!
Come back here when you publish and I’ll buy it. Seriously. 🤝
Good luck! I was rejected by 79 agents before number 80 said "maybe." believe in your story.
I’m glad to
@@bradleyharper6020 what’s your book called
@@user-mc5fg3fx5w A Knife in the Fog. Thank you for asking.
i'm happy to see what experienced people have to say. appreciate the words.
Loved the video. But the wheezing laugh was so filled with the pain of past experiences that it made me sub on its own.
Did right: Work on my social engagement while writing my book.
Did wrong: I have a tendency to give up when I don't believe in myself, but I'm trying!
I am just trying to get started. I am thankful I stumbled onto your site. I will be part of the 1% that reads the Terms of Service.
Same
Same here man
I'll read it if you write it, because whoever does now writes like a Constitutional first drafter.
@@giacomothestayathomedaddy2016Hello just getting started, I've decided to write about my experiences in life. Need all the help I can get.
You are unique. This was very helpful and honest. Did wrong: Stop Writing. Did Right: Started back.
Just stumbled upon this when i was searching on how to start becoming a writer
Your giggle at your book about the vegetables vs. processed foods is so adorable.
That's me when I think of something totally funny/embarrassing in my head.
Thank you for a very insightful video!
I just found your channel days ago and ordered “Writing in the dark” because of you. Thank you, mister. I appreciate you so much ♥️
Thanks, and enjoy!
The first thing I did right was to just start doing it and believe I can do it. Thank you for the videos
Great tip. Thanks for watching. :)
Awesome
As my first fantasy novel is about to hit shelves this Fall, I really want to say a huge THANK YOU for taking your time to give us some advice! Greetings from Greece!
Congratulations on your book launch. Best of luck!!
Thanks for the tips I think the biggest tip I need to keep in mind is when I do start publishing I shouldn't be discouraged when I'm not getting as much sales as I want or have a good amount of readers
I originally studied painting and a little psychology, and I worked as an artist almost my whole life (soon turning 40). In the past year, I've mostly stopped all of that and switched to writing full time, every day. Packed with years of diverse experiences, I was ready to write. The biggest (and funniest) surprise was how much of writing is *not* writing. By that, I'm talking about things like the classic tip to "show, don't tell" and all of the intentional omissions that help create suspense while allowing the reader to wonder, to figure out, and to enjoy her/his own imagination. It makes a lot of sense, but it still blew my mind and took some getting used to: a lot of writing is *not* writing.
Sounds a lot like me. Also soon 40, been drawing and painting my entire life, thought that was my life's goal. Discovered writing and have barely done anything else since (that's about 1,5 years ago). :D Only, I don't write full time, because I haven't finished and published a book yet, so I still have my normal day-job.
There are so many things in writing one discovers as one goes. Like, not showing something, or just what order to show them in, and such things. Pretty cool. :)
No it’s not
What, you actually make a living being artists, wow
1ST TIME WATCHING, LISTENING AND LEARNING. THIS WILL BE MY FIRST BOOK. THANKS VERY ENCOURAGING
I am just starting my writing career! Currently in college to study creative writing.
Something I did right: Not giving up!! I've pushed myself to keep going and to be alive so I could be here today. I started college right out of high school and it's going well. I've been writing for 4 years now, but have been writing novels for 1-2 years.
Something I did wrong: Procrastinate. All my books are WIP's and it frustrates me. But I have a duty of graduating college, therefore, I will have to keep sacrificing my time to not write all the time. My college has a publication course that will help me out a lot with going about getting literacy agents and publishers. Plus they have a writing center that's free that I can pop into any time and get more professional help with my writing.
I will admit, I started writing on Wattpad with fan fictions (still do) and I have a fan base starting on there and it makes me happy to see that people do enjoy my original work put into the fanfics.
Thanks just found your videos (this one and one on Scrivener) and am already learning things! I am just dipping my toe into fiction writing. I have been doing technical and medical writing within day/side jobs for a long time but I have never published nonfiction or fiction. I see good stories as gifts because that is how I see the books I read (total avid reader since childhood) and I crave the creativity of it. I also have a book or two of nonfiction in me - there is information I want to share. At the moment I feel overwhelmed with all of the things I know I need to learn before self-publishing. At the moment it is going to be Scrivener and short stories...... baby step 1. Thanks I will check out your other videos!
I am in the first year of my writing “career” I was today years old when I found this page. I just want to say thank you for helping in this process and giving great advice along the way.
I wish the world had more helpful people like this guy.
Kindness goes a long way
I appreciate the honesty in this video.
You’re so likable. This was another good one. Thanks.
Thank you, good advice! And I appreciate that you get right into instead of five minutes of fluff in the beginning.
What did I do well? Good writing starts with a strong hit, not a beaten phrase or cliché.
What have I done wrong? I forgot that not only the authors are bastards, but also some publishers.
As we can see, life is the best teacher. ;) I really liked this episode and that's why you have a new subscriber from now!
You are a pleasure to watch and listen to, my friend. Props!
I've always fell, in my writing trail.. trying to be good, I was about to give up but..
Your face and smile gives me hope (:
I gave you a thumbs up for that 'school of hard-knocks' joke which made me laugh out loud. I really like you. You are a great person. And I adore all your videos. Thank you for making them. Writing is so crazy and fun - I didn't know I've been a pantser for 40 years until you enlightened me the term even existed! I wish you the very best. You deserve it. Oh! - and tangent: I tried Scrivner, but found I liked Plottr better to plot, it's fun and pretty, and colorful, and helpful, visually showing me time lines and subplots and what I'm doing, then I just sit down and write my chapters in Word. But without you, I wouldn't have discovered either! Not to say at some point that I won't take what I've plotted in Plottr and drop it to write in Scrivner. God, writing has changed since I banged out my first novel in Grade 8 on a mint-green electric typewriter that was my grandfathers from the 1960s. Looked like Frank Underwood's "Underwood' typewriter in house of cards but green. When I started writing there was no internet and no books on writing. I'm glad we can all confer like this. I am glad you have taken up the cause to help others be better. You have truly helped me. Thank you, again, Sir.
Thank you so much. It’s never too late to discover you’re a plotter. I am glad that my videos helped you. I’ve never heard of Plottr, so thank you for sharing that with me. :)
Just what I need, to be an author
I am wanting to get into this realm. i love to film, photograph, draw, paint a lot of things, but writing feels like a place i should go too. I have been thinking about a blog,
Thank you so much for the tips! Ironically I feel like one of the few people that reads the terms of service when I sign up for things like subscriptions, purchases, etc..
I looooove the sponsor spot! I have a continuing education in the School of Hard Knocks. 🤭
Tip #2: soooo true. We aren’t entitled to a darned thing.
Tip #6: not enough authors take advantage of affiliate relationships. I’ve even seen some authors demonize it. That’s just silly.
Tip #8: I’ll have to show you how GIMP is far better than you know. I’ve showed my wife who loves Photoshop some tricks and tips on GIMP that blew her away. 😀
Tip #11: Hahahah so true
THIS is why I love your videos, Michael! I really dig your deep analysis and thorough coverage. Keep up the awesome work.
Thanks dude. We’ll have to chat on GIMP. It frustrated me more than anything. I hear Affinity is pretty good alternative.
Maybe the GIMP is a great video for you to do! ;)
Author Level Up hahahahaha I actually do have a series showing GIMP. It needs updating, because GIMP just rolled out sweet new features. Fun fact: did you know you can actually produce animation through GIMP? Another fun fact: absolutely no one who has grown to like Photoshop transitions to GIMP. Haha so, you’ll be a tough nut to crack.
Getting down to the writing source
First time watching as an upcoming writer and this is so real and practical. Thanks for this
😂 your expression after saying “adult coloring books anyone?” Lol great video and good tips. Thank you!
Wow that's alot of good advice. I never thought I'd be an author but about half way done with my first book.
Hi Michael, I just discovered your channel when someone in my writer's group recommended your "Learn Scrivenor in 20 Min" video. I love the other couple of videos I watched so far and thought I'd drop a note to say nice work! Love your authenticity : ) Made me think, "Here's someone I'd love to chat about writing over a latte!" I look forward to going through your other material!
Thanks so much! Welcome aboard!
Just finished your book “Food City”. Call me crazy but I loved it. Thanks for your insightful videos.
Ha! Thanks for buying it. I am glad you loved it. That makes my day! :)
Great advice! I’ve been taking a stab at writing recently these past few months, it’s kind of like a mini screenplay/ short story project. It’s my first time taking myself seriously to write something creatively and at least meaningful to me.
This is something really worth watching. I've been lucky to stumble here. Thanks big time!
I just subscribed to your page . This video was very subliming. I'm interested in the medium, that's why I'm here. The way how you convey the process of writing, hopefully will enable me to finish my abstract ideas. Thanks for sharing.
One thing I feel I did right was writing a book that is my personal story. That aspect has helped me sell more books! The one thing I did wrong... I have two things that stick out. First, I didn’t have all formats ready at release; paperback, ebook, audio. Second thing, I didn’t have a big enough advanced reading team. Now I know for the next one! 👍🏻
Good self awareness. Baby steps!
2:23 - 'I wrote a SciFi series called "Moderation online" and it's about a group of terrorist vegetables attempting to take down an empire of processed foods'. Whahahahahahahahah. I'm tempted to buy it. Friendly suggestion: You may wanna think about changing the cover art. I don't find it very appealing and I'm willing to bet many people will feel the same. It may be why you don't sell many copies.
A good, informative, and clear speaker offering information that writers can appreciate. The presentation is direct and engaging. Wondrium (The Great Courses) should contract with this author to record a course on writing.
I wouldn’t be opposed to that! :) Thanks for the kind words.
Just starting my novel this year! What a lovely time to find this video.
loves this, been procrastinating for over a decade about writing, this year thank for your video.
Excellent! Thank you! I just subscribed. In my ongoing career of homeschooling: DID WRONG: Had a tendency to get side-tracked, exploring rabbit trails. DID RIGHT: Had a tendency to get side-tracked, exploring rabbit trails. Similar in writing career and everything else. What can seem like a detour can turn into the best idea ever, when my focus zeroes in on that inspiration! The challenge is to identify distractions which are not serving my purpose.
One thing is clear: Your channel is worthwhile! Thankful to one of my writing mentors for recommending your video!
"What can seem like a detour can turn into the best idea ever, when my focus zeroes in on that inspiration!" - That qualifies for comment of the week right there! :) Thanks for subbing and welcome aboard!
Hi, I'm just stopping by to learn from your experience. I've been following you for a few years and appreciate your basic simple down to earth common sense. Keep up the good work and thank you for all the support. Take Care. Rose☺
Did wrong: waited too long before writing and publishing my books
Did right: followed you and did not give up on my writing
Fantastic content and message. Kudos for not trying to sell a scheme and instead focusing on basic, but under appreciated aspects of being a writer.
Michael, i have listened to a number of your youtube videos and appreciate your straightforward style. Thanks for making these available.
H.D. Walker (dale)
Just bought Scrivener today Michael, and your video has been an enormous help in simplifying the level up experience. Thank you young man. Keep on keeping on. My name is Michael White. I am a dentist of 38 years, and if you ever need a complimentary 2nd opinion I am your man.
Hi, Michael! Thank you for all your videos. As for the answers to your inquiry: Did right: Wrote my first draft in 3 weeks. Did wrong: Spent too much time accumulating free books and resources on writing, and then getting overwhelmed at the sheer amount that I had to study, rather than writing/editing.
I love your attitude! Thank you for making videos. You and people like you are inspiring me to keep writing. I’ve been writing fiction for years but haven’t gotten published because I didn’t take it seriously. Now I’m working hard to do research and finish drafting one of my many novels. Keep making videos-you’re great!
Thank you!
I am so glad I watched your video for Scrivener and got hooked onto your videos. You give solid advise and genuine, practical tips... no wishy-washy nonsense! Thank you for that!
Thank you. :)
Wow very informative, clear and to the point. I will be subscribing.
Great suggestions. Things I did wrong: Plan, plan, plan, plan, plan..... I have entire worlds designed on the pc these last twenty years. Not much in the writing department though. Things I did right: Committed to writing daily and having all planning done in two weeks max.
Setting a deadline on planning is such an effective tip. It really does force you to get started. Love it!
I but I can do that.
IM SO HAPPY THAT I FOUND YOUR CHANNEL! thinking about taking my writing more seriously, and I'm so happy to have your channel as a guide to getting started! So excited!! thank you for sharing so many helpful tips!
Thank you Michael for continuing to create and produce your videos. I just recently stumbled across your channel and am now binge-watching (12 videos deep and counting). The information is timely and motivating. Just the spark I needed. YOU are easily on my 'inspiration board'.
Thank you! :)
Primo stuff
The algorithm, with its eternal wisdom, brought me here for the first time today, and I'm so glad it did. What an engaging video with heartfelt advice. While I enjoy writing for pleasure, I'm not an aspiring author (at the moment, anyway), and yet I subscribed just to hear more of what you have to say. Thanks for making youtube a little more pleasant with your content. 👍
Welcome aboard!
Thanks
I thoroughly enjoyed your video (this one) and I've looked at a couple more - I will spend time on others as time goes on. You have a professional appearance and delivery, I like your speaking voice and you have good information to share. You mention about some things that sell, others that don't and I have seen UA-cam vids that were AWFUL and they got millions of hits, and yours (such as this one) much fewer - which translates into numbers can be deceiving.
You also provide helpful links (such as the one you did on outlining) and as a result, I've gotten to be more familiar w/ some of the biggies in this industry.
Keep up the good work on your channel, and you should be proud of what you've accomplished (and I'm sure you are). Thank you again for your contribution to this field.
Thank you very much.
Thank you for sharing your experience. As an inspire writer, it's always wonderful to learn from other people lessons and successes.
This is a FANTASTIC video, sir. I've been adrift on the marketing sea for such a long time. Your amiable, forthright tone and excellent quality advice have really given me hope. Thank you, Michael.
DID WRONG: I expected my first couple of books would sell (albeit modestly) because they were so clever.
DID RIGHT: Watched this video.
Wow, thank you!
You have such a lovely vibe! Also, the vegetable story sounds amazing 🤩
I am new to writing a book, but I have journaled forever. I would say my strength is addressing things that are real life-simple terms in a bullet point fashion. Now, at the same time, my writing voice is as if you and I are sitting in front of one another talking and having tea. I started watching you today because I was searching for knowledge about writer software to use. I watched a few of your you tubes today about writing and the industry as well. I think the one on "how to outline your novel in 10 different ways", spoke to me the most. I am trying to find my writing style but I think I already have that down pat. Its the writing from beginning to end in journal format. I am not for certain, but I will play with it, so I can figure myself out! I think its the Dean Wesley Smith, "writing in the dark", method. I am armed with info thanks to you.The info on Scrivener was great. I think, why bother buying the wrong software, if I need something else entirely to fit me. For example, if I free write- no punctuation when I'm on a roll, does spell correct help if I hit the wrong keys and does it punctuate for me? I'm fast on paper, but slow on keyboard, so I don't want to lose my moment correcting and stopping, you know? Any suggestions on that? Thanks so much.
Hello, thanks for watching my videos! The short answer is that no, the spelling and grammar checker will not correct your punctuation unfortunately. Sometimes it will but I wouldn’t count on it.
I know this is an older video, but I am embarking on my writing journey and your honesty and genuine sincerity is refreshing. Thank you for a great video :)
Great advice! I appreciate your professional writing tips. 🙏🏾🙌🏾
Great work. Love your videos and appreciate the honest and well-designed insights.
you earned my time man! thank you ( I love the sincerity, I feel from you! )
I admire your sincerity.
Just found your videos today as I'm struggling to publish my first guide on KDP. Thank you for your advice!! I definitely subscribed.
Thank you for subscribing. :)
you're such a cool dude like, you really make me feel at ease and you have great advice! im so glad to have found your channel
Thanks for watching and subscribing! :)
No problemo
This was very kind of you to share. Thank you so much!
Great share! thank you. I only just finished my first book and exploring the online publishing world. Did right: finished my book, took me almost 1,5 year full time. Did wrong: perfectionism and postpone taking steps I am not sure of, especially now in this new unknown territory.
Congrats on finishing your book!
Thank you for the advance. I want to be an author but I'm so far behind the learning curve. But your video gives me inspiration to learn more and dive in.
I'm writing my first novel and during the process your videos helped me alot thank you so much dude!
You are very good at presenting your point. I just subbed.
Very helpful, Michael. In my opinion never giving up is key. I am in this industry for 22 years and I have countless authors seen come and go only after a few books. Especially in Self-publishing. Sad, but true.
Yep. Unfortunately a lot more will come and go.
You're a kind hearted soul. Thank you mister!
I am finally at a point in my aspirations to be a writer to write. Let’s just say things are finally quiet enough to hear my creative voice. So coming across your channel was a treat. You’re well-spoken and thorough in your presentation. Oh and HONEST! Thanks. I subscribed.
Thanks! Glad you found the video helpful. Best of luck with your writing.
I know I will
The first video I watched of yours and it was great content. Most creators on UA-cam mention the same stuff over and over again, but you gave more - I didn't even think about the podcast or press kit idea. As a novice, I'm not worried about the actual act of writing but more so growing an audience of readers. Just subbed and going through your other videos.
p.s. I dig the glasses - I have a very similar pair
Thanks for subscribing and welcome aboard!
Thank you for sharing your experience. I always appreciate hearing your input.
Excellent video Michael! Absolutely love your positivity!
wow you show us how to do everything right from the start!
“Awesome, truly awesome.”
I’ve always had so much stories in mind to create a book about it, but i’m so dumb that I forget all the words to describe things that I just write it so undetailed and unexpected then I thought it’d turn out. I have no idea how to word my writing!! 😭
Thank God I came across this...I love every point you made. 😁
Thanks so much for the tips. I learnt alot. Recently it has been on my mind to start, praying about it to. Keep up the great work. Your video was great, clear, honest, and straight to the point.
Thanks so much.
Thank you for the video learned a lot and I'm anxious to start writing.
Great video and THANK you for the "truth" and related explanations.
Great video and good tips. I'm getting ready to launch my first book.
Thanks for this video! I laughed out loud at the School of Hard Knocks joke. It’s good to hear some of these tips, even if some of them seem obvious! Knowing others have been through all of this before gives me home!
Glad it was helpful!
I'm so happy I found this channel, your voice is so soothing and you give awesome advice. Thank you for sharing your experience. I hope we can all become good writers like you
Thank you for this video. I'm only a teenager but I want to become an author when I'm older. Sometimes the thought I'd overwhelming and scary. But thank you. You never have up and that gives me confidence about the future :)
What a nice surprise to come across you tonight, Michael. I found your name through C.S. Lakin, my favorite writing guru! I listened to your podcast while cooking my dinner and I will listen again because I find you inspiring! I've been working on my first serious novel after writing tons of memoirs and short stories over the decades. 2020 will be my year to publish the novel. But as you know, it isn't easy. I sit down and work every day. I'm in the editing stage...and now I'm more terrified than I was when I finished the first draft. I needed to hear all you said, and I will be back soon. Warmly, Suzi
Hi Suzi! Welcome aboard, and thank you for the nice words. :) Writing a novel definitely isn’t easy, but it’s one of the most gratifying things you will ever do. Good luck with your book!
Succint and to the point. Thank you.
I enjoy your videos. You seem truly authentic.
Great advice, Michael. I'm definitely a subscriber!
2:30 I like when people laugh on their own ideas xD
LOL
I bought Moderation Online Book One and I can't wait to read it. The plot sounds amazing!
Thanks so much! Happy reading. :)
2 minutes into the video and I already subscribed! haha...I don't usually subscribe this fast (ever), but you sounded genuine and like a realistic person. Anyways, I'll continue watching the video now.
Welcome aboard!
@@AuthorLevelUp Hello! Thanks. Loved the content btw 😊