Cultivating Persistence in Writing

Published June 24, 2025

Hello, Dear Readers.

I’ve been particularly drawn to self-help books lately–mostly concerning writing, marketing, budgeting, and time management. Every book I read, I think about how I might apply its lessons to my writing. I’m currently reading Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill. 

Somewhere around chapter 9 (page 181 to be precise), Hill discusses persistence and the definite causes that it is based upon. I thought to myself, this is something I can use. 

Causes of Persistence Applied to Writing

1. Definiteness of purpose – The first cause is this: knowing what you want. Having a strong motive will help you overcome obstacles. Why do you want to write this book? Are you writing to tell your story, to make money, to help others, or to persuade your audience? Why should it matter to your readers? Find your why, and you will be heading in the right direction to developing persistence in writing. Take it further. Why do you want your book to sell? How much money does it need to make to be worth it for you? 
2. Desire – You have to want this. If you want your story out there, you have to pursue it with all you’ve got. If you don’t need this in your life, you might as well find a different way to spend your time. 
3. Self-reliance – AKA believe in yourself! You must take the initiative. If you think you can do it, you’re halfway there. Create a space where you can write or market your book in a comfy, distraction-free environment. Show up for yourself. If you prepare ahead of time, you will set yourself up for success. 
4.  Definiteness of plans – Get organized. Make a plan and stick to it. This doesn’t have to be an outline for your book (but it can be). It should be making the time, writing it in your calendar, and sticking to it. If you don’t prioritize your time, someone else will. If writing matters, you have to prioritize it and make the time. 
5. Accurate Knowledge – Don’t guess, know. This will prevent procrastination or going down rabbit holes. Do your research ahead of time, in a separate session from your writing. If you write fiction, there may still be things you need to research or skills you need to sharpen. 
6. Cooperation – Working in harmony with your beta readers, publishers, editors, illustrators, etc., will hold you accountable and help develop your persistence. 
7. Will Power – No one is going to do this for you. It’s up to you. Concentrate your thoughts on the building of your story. Once your story is written, you must edit and market your book, and you will need to focus your efforts on that as well. Create a plan and stick to it, little by little, you will attain your goals. 
8. Habit – It takes about 21 days to form a habit and 90 days to make it a lifestyle change. When something becomes a habit, you will do it persistently. Make writing a habit. What can you do today to make it happen?  

When you clarify what is needed to get persistent with writing, you can apply these principles for your benefit.  Get clear about what you want and get it!

Wishing you much success and happy writing.

Trista Herring Baughman is the Managing Editor of Pikes Peak Writers’ Writing from the Peak. She is a farmwife, homeschooling mama of two, and a children’s author. Her current books include Halloween Night and Other Poems, Zombiesaurs, The Magic Telescope, and The Itsy Bitsy Fairy. You can learn more about her blogs and books on her website.