Hi everyone! I hope you’re all well. Today, I’m going to be busting some writing myths for you so that you don’t end up believing a load of old nonsense for years like I did.

5 Writing Myths You Need to Stop Believing

Writing is one of those activities that invites unsolicited advice, isn’t it? I’m doing it right now, although if you’re here, hopefully, it’s because you trust the advice and information I give.

But here’s the thing about a lot of advice out there: much of it is outdated, overly rigid, or just plain wrong. Worse, it can stifle your creativity and make writing feel more like a chore than the magical outlet it’s supposed to be.

So, with all that said, let’s go!

Myth 1 – You Must Write Every Day
How often do you hear this? While consistency is excellent for building creative momentum, the idea that you must write every single day is, quite frankly, unrealistic for most people. Life gets messy. Whether you’re juggling work and family or merely need a mental health day to recharge, skipping a writing session won’t magically disqualify you from being a writer. Regular writing is essential, but it’s important to be flexible. Write when it works for you.

Myth 2 – Writers Need Inspiration to Write
This one trips up so many budding writers. Those oft-romanticised ideas of writers waiting for that one perfect idea to strike them? Pure fiction.

The reality is a lot less glamorous. Most successful writers would agree that inspiration often comes after you sit down to write, not before.

Writing is about showing up, even on days when all you can think about is what’s for lunch. Don’t wait for your muse to arrive and inspire you. Create a routine, sit down, and start typing. Creativity will show up eventually.

Myth 3 – Writing is All About Talent
You hear this all too often, too, don’t you? Here’s the thing, though: writing isn’t some magical gift awarded to a chosen few. It’s a skill, plain and simple.

Sure, some people might find it easier to communicate their thoughts with particular flair—but the truth is, anyone can learn how to write well. It’s as much about practising and honing and building your skills as it is about passion.

Myth 4 – A Good Writer Never Struggles with Writer’s Block
Oh, writer’s block. The silent enemy of wordsmiths everywhere. If you think great writers never deal with it, think again.

All writers you admire have, at some point, stared at a blank page and sighed deeply into their third cup of coffee. That doesn’t make them terrible writers. It makes them human. Struggling to write does not mean you’re writing is no good. It means you’re doing it right. Persevere, and the words will come. And for those who don’t believe writer’s block is a real thing (because you’re out there—I’ve seen you), count yourselves lucky that you’ve so far eluded it.

Myth 5 – You Need Long, Flowery Sentences to Sound Sophisticated
This myth feels like it’s plagued me since school. Back when we were turning in essays with sentences like, “Due to the fact that…” instead of plain old “Because.”

The truth? Simplicity is your best friend. Instead of piling on adjectives and complicated metaphors, focus on clarity. Long-winded sentences might feel impressive at first, but they can leave your readers wading through your paragraphs like they’re slogging through a treacle.

The fact is, writing myths are so easily believed because they often come from people with a bit of experience who believe those myths worked for them—and that may be true—but the odds are they’d have finished their first drafts a lot quicker if they’d ignored them.

So, if you’ve been shackled by these myths yourself, it’s time to break free. Throw away the rules that don’t benefit you. Experiment and enjoy the process.

Thank you, as ever, for stopping by!

Until next time,

George

© 2025 GLT

Categories: publishing, Writing Tips

Tags: advive, Myths, rules, tips, Writer, writing, writing rules, Writing Tips