Hi everyone! I hope you’re all well. Today, I’m exploring the age-old myth of the “overnight success”.

The Myth of Overnight Success in Writing

When we hear about our favourite authors—or even just successful writers we admire from afar—the tales of their success can often feel like a fairy tale. You know the ones: “This author wrote their debut novel in just three months and sold it to a top publisher for a six-figure advance.”

It’s tempting to assume their success was instantaneous or that they stumbled upon a magical formula to make it happen. But if you sneak a peek behind the curtain, that story of “overnight success” is rarely as simple or as glamorous as it seems.

So why does this myth of overnight success persist? And more importantly, how can we, as writers, shift our perspective and focus on the realities of what it takes to create great work and find success as creatives?

Here are some things to bear in mind:

1. “Overnight” Usually Means Years of Preparation
Authors like J.K. Rowling, Stephen King, and Nora Roberts didn’t become famous instantly. They spent years honing their craft, writing manuscripts that never got published, and learning the business of being an author.

Success stories you hear often skip the backstory of perseverance and growth.

2. Writing Is a Process
Each book, story, or article is part of an entire journey. Every draft, critique, and rewrite teaches you something new.

Celebrate progress, not just the end result. Your development as a writer is the true success.

3. Rejections Are Part of the Path
Nearly every writer faces rejection. It’s a sign you’re putting your work out there, which is brave.

Use rejection as fuel to improve and keep going—not as a sign to give up.

4. Building an Audience Takes Time
In today’s digital age, it’s tempting to expect instant followers, readers, or sales. But audience-building is slow and steady.

Focus on consistent writing, connecting with your readers, and sharing your voice authentically.

5. Success Looks Different for Everyone
Not every writer will land a bestseller or a movie deal—and that’s okay. Not every writer wants to. Success can mean finishing your novel, getting published in a small magazine, or simply enjoying the craft.

Define success on your own terms.

6. Patience and Persistence Are Key
Those who “make it” often outlast others because they don’t quit. They continue to write, learn and grow even when progress feels slow.

So, the next time you see somebody’s “overnight success” story plastered across headlines, remind yourself that it’s simply the tip of the iceberg.

The long hours, endless drafts, moments of self-doubt, and small yet mighty victories under the surface are what sustain and build a writer’s career.

Instead of pursuing a myth, embrace the writing path with its myriad ups and downs. Each step forward is a victory.

Your voice matters, your stories matter, and your persistence will pay off—perhaps just not overnight.

Thank you, as ever, for stopping by to read today’s post!

Until next time,

George

© 2025 GLT

Categories: Staying Motivated, Writing Tips

Tags: advice, tips, Writer, writing, writing advice, Writing Tips