(And How You Can Avoid It)
It’s tough to say out loud—but most aspiring writers in India never make it past a few blog posts, a half-finished manuscript, or a dusty folder of short stories. Not because they aren’t talented, but because they don’t know what they’re up against.
I’ve met dozens of aspiring writers over the years—some full of passion, others full of doubt. Many started with fire but faded out without ever publishing a book. And the sad part? Most of them never knew what went wrong.
Let’s talk about why most writers fail—honestly, without sugar-coating—and more importantly, how you can avoid these mistakes to create a writing career that lasts.
The False Start: Chasing Fame Over Craft
We all dream of becoming the next Chetan Bhagat or Durjoy Datta. But writing to get “famous” rarely leads to anything meaningful.
When you write only with an end goal of recognition, you start compromising on your voice, authenticity, and learning curve. Your stories sound like watered-down copies of others. You imitate, not create.
Fix this:
Start by focusing on the craft. Write because you have something to say—not just something to sell. The audience will come. But only if the writing speaks.
Lack of a Writing Routine Kills Creativity
Writers don’t fail because they aren’t creative. They fail because they wait for the “right time” to write—and it never comes.
Life in India is hectic. Jobs, family, chai breaks, traffic, and weddings—there’s always something going on. If writing doesn’t become a non-negotiable part of your day, it slowly disappears.
Fix this:
Set a simple goal: 100–300 words every day, no matter what. Make it a habit like brushing your teeth.
No Clear Understanding of Genre or Audience
Too many writers try to write for everyone. They write romance with thriller twists, motivational endings, and poetic language—all in one book.
Without clarity on your genre and reader, you end up with a confused manuscript that no publisher knows what to do with.
Fix this:
Pick a genre. Study its structure. Think about the person reading your book—age, taste, attention span. Write for that reader.
Waiting for Motivation Instead of Building Discipline
Motivation is a visitor. Discipline is a roommate.
Relying on “feeling inspired” is a major reason writers stop writing. Motivation may get you started, but discipline keeps you going.
Fix this:
Set a time, place, and limit distractions. Even 30 focused minutes daily can build a book over months.
Fear of Feedback and Rewriting
Many writers get defensive when someone critiques their work. But feedback isn’t an attack. It’s a flashlight.
Fix this:
Share drafts with beta readers, writing groups, or even a trusted friend. Rewriting is where your book becomes readable.
Underestimating Book Marketing and Promotion
You can write the next “God of Small Things” and still sell 50 copies—because books don’t sell themselves.
Most writers believe their work will go viral on its own. It rarely does.
Fix this:
Learn the basics of book marketing—build a reader community, post value on social media, collaborate with book reviewers, and consider Amazon ads.
Not Reading Enough to Stay Sharp
Writing is like speaking. If you don’t read, your vocabulary, structure, and storytelling all become limited.
Fix this:
Read at least 2 books a month—across genres. Study what works. Ask: Why did I like this sentence? What made this scene powerful?
Comparing Yourself to Successful Authors
Nothing kills confidence faster than comparison. Looking at someone else’s bestseller while you’re stuck in chapter two can feel like a punch.
But you’re seeing their Chapter 20, not their Chapter 1.
Fix this:
Track your growth, not someone else’s. The only competition is who you were last month.
How You Can Avoid These Writer Pitfalls in India
Want to avoid failure? Here’s a 5-point mantra:
- Write daily, no matter what.
- Finish what you start.
- Seek feedback and accept it humbly.
- Read twice as much as you write.
- Market like you mean it.
No fancy tools or fancy degrees—just clear intention and relentless action.
Real Success Stories of Writers Who Got It Right
- Preeti Shenoy started blogging before anyone knew her name. Now she’s a bestselling author.
- Ravinder Singh wrote from personal heartbreak—his vulnerability became his brand.
- Ankur Warikoo self-published, marketed smartly, and stayed consistent. Look at him now.
- Divya Prakash Dubey Hindi script writer, stated from novels and storytelling.
- a long list, Bhagwant anmol, Nikhil sachan, ….
They didn’t skip the hard parts. They just kept showing up.
The Writer’s Mindset That Wins in the Long Run
Forget perfect. Forget instant fame. Build a mindset around:
- Curiosity
- Humility
- Resilience
These are your real writing tools. Pens run out of ink. Mindset doesn’t.
FAQs About Why Writers Fail in India
Is it necessary to have a mentor to succeed as a writer?
No, but guidance helps. Follow authors online, join writing communities, and learn from books/blogs.
Can I write part-time and still be successful?
Absolutely. Many authors have full-time jobs. It’s about consistency, not hours.
How important is language? Do I need perfect English/HINDI or any other language?
Clarity is more important than complexity. Write in your voice, even if it’s simple.
Does traditional publishing guarantee success?
Not at all. Many traditionally published books flop. Success = good writing + smart promotion.
Should I quit if my first book fails?
No. Most first books underperform. Learn, pivot, and write again
Conclusion: Don’t Just Write—Write Smart and Sustainably
Writing isn’t a one-time sprint. It’s a marathon that rewards those who keep moving even when the road is rough.
Success won’t come from one viral post, one finished manuscript, or one big launch. It comes from learning why most fail and refusing to make the same mistakes.
So keep the pen moving. Keep growing. You’ve got stories to tell—and someone out there is waiting to hear them.