Debunking the Myths: The Truth About Writing a Book and Becoming an Author

Debunking the Myths: The Truth About Writing a Book and Becoming an Author

There’s something powerful about the moment you decide to write a book. It’s the first step in turning your wisdom, experience, or story into something that can impact others. But if you’ve ever felt that nudge to write a book, you’ve probably also been met with doubts—many of which are rooted in myths that keep aspiring authors stuck before they even start.

I know because I’ve been there. I’ve walked the road of insecurity, the fear of not being “good enough,” and the overwhelming feeling that writing a book was for other people—experts, scholars, literary geniuses. But here’s the truth: those myths are just smoke and mirrors. Writing a book isn’t about being perfect or having all the answers. It’s about showing up, telling your story, and trusting that your message matters.

So today, let’s dismantle the biggest myths about writing a book and stepping into the role of an author—because your story deserves to be told.

Myth #1: You Have to Be a Great Writer to Write a Book

One of the biggest lies people believe is that they need to be a naturally gifted writer to become an author. I’ve heard so many people say, “But I’m not a writer,” as if there’s some exclusive club where only those with a literary background are allowed.

Here’s what I tell my clients all the time: Writing a book isn’t about being a great writer—it’s about being a great communicator. If you can share your story with a friend over coffee, you can write a book. The beauty of writing is that it can be refined. That’s what editing is for.

Even bestselling authors don’t write perfect first drafts. The key is getting your ideas down and letting the refining process shape them into something powerful.

Myth #2: You Need to Write Every Day or Have Tons of Time

Many aspiring authors feel disqualified before they even begin because they can’t dedicate hours a day to writing. I get it—life is busy. But the good news? You don’t have to write every single day to finish your book.

What you need is a system that works for you. Some people write in bursts—maybe one long writing session per week. Others write in small chunks—just 15 to 30 minutes a day. It’s about progress, not perfection.

I often tell people that writing a book is like planting seeds. Every time you sit down to write, even if it’s just a few hundred words, you’re watering those seeds. Over time, they grow into something beautiful.

Myth #3: Writer’s Block Means You’re Not Meant to Be an Author

Let me tell you a secret: Even the most successful authors experience writer’s block. It’s not a sign that you’re not cut out for this—it’s simply part of the creative process.

Often, writer’s block is just fear in disguise. The fear of not being good enough. The fear of judgment. The fear of getting it wrong. But here’s the thing—your first draft isn’t meant to be perfect. It’s just meant to be.

When you feel stuck, don’t give up. Instead, try:

✔️ Changing your environment—write in a different location

✔️ Speaking your ideas out loud and transcribing them

✔️ Journaling to get your thoughts flowing

✔️ Praying over your writing and asking God to guide your words

The words will come. Trust the process.

Myth #4: You Need a Completely Original Idea

A lot of people never start writing because they think their idea isn’t unique enough. But let me ask you this: How many books have been written about leadership? Or faith? Or overcoming hardship?

The truth is, originality isn’t about coming up with something that’s never been said before—it’s about saying it in your voice, with your experiences, and your perspective.

Someone out there needs to hear your story in the way only you can tell it. Don’t let the fear of “not being original” rob the world of your message.

Myth #5: Writing a Book Takes Years

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard people say, “I just don’t have time to write a book.” But what if I told you that you could write a book in months—or even weeks?

The key is having a structured plan. I teach my clients to break their book down into clear, manageable steps:

1. Start with your outline – Mapping out your chapters gives you a clear path.

2. Set writing benchmarks – Writing just 500 words a day can add up fast.

3. Write first, edit later – Trying to perfect your writing as you go only slows you down.

Books don’t have to take years. If you commit to the process, you can finish yours much sooner than you think.

Myth #6: You Need a Traditional Publisher to Be a “Real” Author

There was a time when the only way to get published was through a traditional publisher. But the publishing world has changed, and self-publishing is now a powerful, legitimate path.

Self-published authors:

✔️ Keep creative control over their book

✔️ Earn higher royalties per sale

✔️ Have the flexibility to market and grow their book as they choose

Many successful authors today self-publish because it allows them to get their message out quickly without waiting for a publisher’s approval. You don’t need permission to become an author. You just need to take the first step.

Myth #7: A Book Will Make You Rich Overnight

A book is an incredible asset, but if you’re expecting instant riches, you may be disappointed. Here’s the truth—books don’t just generate income through sales. The real power of a book is in how it positions you as an authority.

A book can:

📖 Help you land speaking engagements

📖 Boost your credibility as a coach or consultant

📖 Open doors to new business opportunities

📖 Serve as a lead generation tool for your business

The value of a book extends far beyond just book sales. It’s about the doors it opens and the lives it impacts.

Final Thoughts: Your Story Matters

At the end of the day, the biggest myth of all is believing that your story isn’t important enough to share. That’s the enemy trying to keep you silent.

If you’ve ever felt a calling to write, it’s because someone out there needs your message.

You don’t have to be perfect.

You don’t have to have all the answers.

You just have to start.

And if you need support along the way, I’m here to help. Let’s turn your story into a book that changes lives.

Are you ready to take the next step? Book a strategy call with me today on booking link on my Digital Referral Card!

💬 Have you believed any of these myths before? Let me know in the comments!

Love you, 

Wendy Melrose, Author

Would you like to know more about the author of this article? Click here: In The Zone

By, Wendy Melrose