Break a Leg to Become a Writer by Aga Lesiewicz

Break a Leg to Become a Writer by Aga Lesiewicz

As my literary hero Margaret Atwood said: ‘You become a writer by writing.” 

This is absolutely true, there is no other way. But life can make it difficult: the job, the family, the kids, the never-ending litany of everyday chores. So, you put it off: I’ll start tomorrow, or at the weekend, I’ll start when I have a bit more time to myself. And when you find that precious moment, it never feels right. Your mind keeps wandering off to the things you haven’t done, the things you should be doing instead of indulging the little fantasy of yours. What you feel is guilt, but also fear: what if I’m not good enough, what if my book turns out to be worthless, a waste of time… But how can you know if you haven’t tried?

Before I became a writer I was a promo producer, making trailers for television. I loved my job: it was fast, creative and varied. And then, everything ground to a halt. A torn meniscus, which can normally be fixed by a simple knee arthroscopy, was refusing to heal. A few surgeries down the line I had to face the terrifying reality: I couldn’t walk and therefore I couldn’t do my job. I was forced to reinvent myself professionally.

Although I’d written hundreds of scripts as a promo producer, I’d never considered myself as a writer. But here was my chance: a bona fide reason to rid myself of the fear and the feeling of guilt and try my hand at writing. After all, being stuck on the sofa with my leg up, I genuinely had nothing better to do. By the time I started hobbling about with a walking stick, I had the first draft of my novel. A few months later I had an agent, and soon after a major publishing house acquired world rights to Rebound. I had become a published writer. 

What is the moral of the story? Obviously, I’m not encouraging anyone to break a leg in order to start their writing career. My way of becoming a writer was extreme, and rather painful. In fact, I wouldn’t wish it on anyone. But finding the time and making space for your writing is crucial. Set aside a couple of hours a day to concentrate on writing. Go away and spend a week thinking of nothing else but your book. Immerse yourself in it. Determination – not inspiration – is the key to success.

There are, of course, many success stories in the world of books, and each of them is different. But the most important thing for a writer is to be consistent and persevere. I’ve had many people come to me and say ‘I have this great idea for a book.’ My answer always is: ‘And? Have you written it yet?’ 

You don’t know if you have a good book in you until you’ve tried writing it. 

I’ve joined forces with Shine Retreats to create a nurturing space for writers in a picturesque 19th century farmhouse in Umbria, Italy. We’re offering a unique mixture of creative workshops and Pilates sessions in a peaceful and relaxing environment, suited for writers of all levels. It beats having to break a leg to be able to write, doesn’t it?

Find out more about the retreat HERE
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Tags: featured, women writers

Category: Contemporary Women Writers, How To and Tips