Five Rules for Writers (That I Wish I Knew When I First Started as a Full-Time Writer)

Leaning into your calling as a writer can be hard—but it can also be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. Today, I want to share five surprising truths I wish I had known when I first started pursuing my dream of becoming a full-time writer over 11 years ago.

1. You don’t write alone. I used to think writing was a solo venture—just me and my journal. But over time, I realized that many others are part of the process:

• My family sees me setting aside time to write (and sometimes I write about them).

• My audience—these words aren’t just for me anymore. They’re for you. For my people. For my Facebook friends, my email subscribers, and my author clients.

• My team—from agents to editors to social media managers, my words are shaped and shared by far more people than just me.

  
  

2. Small is better than big. I used to dream of my book being in Target, getting on Good Morning America, and impacting the masses. But over time, I realized those shiny moments pale in comparison to a simple comment or heartfelt email from someone who was deeply moved by my story.

To go big, you need to start small. Start with your own story of being stuck. Start with the place that hurt—and help others through it. That’s how your words begin to create a ripple effect.

3. Social media is like the ocean. When I got started in 2014, everyone was on blogs and Facebook. Then came Instagram, then TikTok, YouTube, Pinterest… so many tools, so little time.

I’ve come to see my words like a boat riding the waves of social media. Sometimes I catch a wave and my words spread. Other times, I just try to stay afloat.

But I’ve learned: it’s not about the current—it’s about the anchor. Your anchor might be your faith, your story, your family, your vision, or your values. Hold onto it. It keeps you steady when the waves feel overwhelming.

4. Collaboration over competition. Yes, others are writing about similar things. Some might seem cooler, more eloquent, or more well-known. But here’s the truth: they’re just people—people with stories, with fears, with doubts.

When you stop seeing other writers as competitors and start seeing them as potential friends, everything changes. It becomes more fun, more freeing, and more sustainable.

5. Community is key. Without a small, trusted group of writing friends, I would’ve quit a long time ago. That’s where Hope Writers comes in.

Hope Writers isn’t just about content (though there’s plenty of that)—it’s about connection. It’s about knowing you’re not alone, your words matter, and you have a story of hope to share.

Bonus Truth: Opportunities don’t last forever. There have been trends I wish I jumped on. Chances I missed. Ideas I waited on too long. Of course, you can always start again—but I still play the “what if” game.

What if I had taken action two years ago instead of waiting? How much further along would I be?

Regret can feel heavy—but action brings freedom. That’s why I’m inviting you to join Hope Writers while doors are open for the next few days.

If you’re ready to stop writing alone, be part of a supportive community, and finally move forward on your writing dream, Hope Writers is here for you.

We’re your people—cheering you on, praying for you, and walking with you every step of the way.

-This post was written by Brian Dixon, co-founder of hope*writers. Click here to learn more and join before the doors close: hopewriters.com