A poll taken in 2002, discovered that 81 percent of people surveyed dreamt of writing a book. The harsh reality is only 3% of those who start a novel actually finish. Want to finally make your dreams a reality?

Welcome to the START series, where we’ll explore strategies to help you surpass that first 30, 50, 70 pages, and finally type THE END.

Let’s start with the top 5 reasons you’ve yet to start that book:

1. Fear of failure

Let’s be real. Completing a 300-page manuscript is a massive feat that takes months, sometimes years, to complete. Add the risk of baring your soul to the world and potentially facing (gulp) rejection? Why even bother? Because there’s a story that only you can tell. “But Kim! You read the statistic! 97% of writers never finish a manuscript.” But 3% do. For decades, I didn’t. And one day, I did. 4 years later, I had 9 completed works on my shelf. Why not you? Fear can be paralyzing and nearly impossible to overcome if not confronted, so you need to settle in your mind to confront your fear now. As Thomas Edison said, “You only fail when you stop trying.”

2. Fear of success

Fear of success is just another phrase for “fear of change”. Fear of losing control.  “What if I get published?” “What if I get famous?” What if I become the next Stephen King or JK Rowling and can’t go to the pharmacy without everyone ogling what I bought?!” Breathe. You can turn down panels and promotions, you can choose not to sign certain deals. You have more say over your destiny than you think. Just take it one step at a time and trust that when you’re confronted with a challenge, you’ll figure it out.

3. You’re not ready

You’re excited to get going, but you’re not sure where to go. What’s the big plot twist? How does it all end? That’s like heading on a road trip without a map. And whether you’re fully aware of it or not, your subconscious knows you need a plan. I’ve got some suggestions on that. But for now, let’s figure out what else could be holding you back.

4. Imposter Syndrome

“I don’t write like those other authors.” “I don’t know what I’m talking about.” “My writing sucks.” I doubt there are too many writers who don’t think of their writing this way. At least 80% of people are likely affected by Imposter Syndrome. Everyone—from the teenager entering her first short story contest, to the New York Times Bestselling Author receiving his first Pulitzer—is dealing with it, so work on overcoming it yourself.

5. You don’t have the time

School, work, friends, kids, life. Each one of us could make a list of 100 things that keep us busy and add another 10 by the end of the day. The fact is you’ll make time for what you prioritize. Get up early. Stay up late. Work through lunch. If you’re not willing to sacrifice time, sleep, or even some aspects of social life, you might not want to achieve your dream as much as you think. No one has the time. You have to make it.

Conclusion

Writing a book can be an overwhelming challenge that many never take on, but by taking a few simple steps, you can achieve your dream. Check out Part 2 of the START series to see what else could be holding you back.