#186. First Draft Roadmap: 10 Steps to Writing A Novel For Beginners

Writing your first novel is a journey unlike any other—equal parts exhilarating, frustrating, magical, and challenging. But here's what you need to know right now: it's completely doable with the right approach. Something I've discovered after working with hundreds of writers is that finishing a novel requires more than just talent or a great idea. It takes the right mindset, practical tools, and a strategic approach that keeps you moving forward even when inspiration fades. Tune in to learn the exact novel-writing framework that has helped my clients and students transform their ideas into completed manuscripts, with a special focus on the foundational elements that make stories truly resonate with readers. You’ll hear me talk about things like: [02:10] The #1 reason most first-time novelists abandon their manuscripts (spoiler alert: it's not writer's block) [13:25] Why understanding your protagonist's inner obstacle is the key to creating a page-turning novel [20:20] The simple 3-part story structure that successful authors use to prevent getting stuck in the dreaded "murky middle" [26:45] Which writing routines actually work for busy people (and why marathon writing sessions might be sabotaging your progress) [30:20] The psychological trick that transforms "someday" writers into authors who actually finish their first draft [32:50] Episode recap and final thoughts If you've been dreaming about becoming an author but find yourself staring at a blank page or blinking cursor, or if you've started multiple manuscripts only to abandon them when the going gets tough, then this episode is for you! 🔗 Links mentioned in this episode: Your First Draft Roadmap: 10 Steps To Writing a Novel (Free Guide) Want my entire step-by-step process for brainstorming, outlining, and writing your first draft? Click here to learn more about my Notes to Novel program. ⭐ Rate + Review + Follow on Apple Podcasts "I love the Fiction Writing Made Easy podcast!" ← If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing this show! Your rating and review will help other writers find this podcast, and they're also super fun for me to read. Just click here, scroll all the way to the bottom, tap five stars to rate the show, and then select "Write a Review." Be sure to let me know your favorite episodes, too! Also, if you haven't done so already, make sure you're following the podcast! I'll be adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed, and if you're not following the show, there's a good chance you'll miss them. Click here to follow now! FREE QUIZ: Take this 30-second quiz to get a custom action plan that'll help you move from stuck writer to published author! Support the show