Why I Don’t Enter Mystery Writing Competitions
🛑 Why I Don’t Enter Writing Competitions (And Why You Might Want to Rethink Them Too)
If you’re an aspiring author, you’ve probably been encouraged to enter writing competitions as a way to gain recognition and credibility. But after years of experience in the industry, I’ve come to a different conclusion: writing competitions often aren’t worth the effort.
🎯 The Allure of Writing Competitions
Writing competitions can be enticing. They promise exposure, feedback, and sometimes even cash prizes. But here’s the catch: many of these contests are designed more to benefit the organizers than the participants.Bespoke ELA
💸 Hidden Costs and Limited Rewards
While some competitions offer substantial prizes, many require entry fees and offer minimal exposure. The winners might receive a certificate or a small cash prize, but this rarely translates into significant career advancement.Inspirit AI+5Writer's Digest+5Inspirit AI+5
🧠 The Time Investment Paradox
The time spent crafting a submission for a competition could often be better used elsewhere. Whether it’s writing a new story, improving your craft, or building your author platform, the return on investment from many competitions doesn’t justify the effort.
📚 A Better Path: Self-Publishing and Direct Engagement
Instead of entering competitions, consider focusing on building your own audience. Self-publishing allows you to retain creative control and reach readers directly. Engaging with your audience through social media, blogs, or newsletters can provide more meaningful feedback and support.Austin Macauley Publishers+5Literacy Hive+5Writer's Digest+5
📘 Ready to Take Control of Your Writing Journey?
If you’re looking to bypass the competition route and start building your author career on your own terms, I’ve got something for you. Grab a free mystery book from my collection and see how self-publishing can work for you.
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