When writing, I tend to keep a nocturnal schedule. My creative thought process functions better between 11PM and 4AM.
When editing, I keep a diurnal schedule. I'm able to think more analytically during the day, which helps me be more objective about what changes need to be made.
One of the biggest changes is chapter length. I used to write 8000-10,000 word chapters. Now, I average around 4000 words. This has helped readers grasp the pacing of the books much better, since many people equate chapter length to the passage of time in-world.
Absolutely. From an early age, I had a grasp that if people were selling books, that meant they were making some amount of money off them. If they were making money off their books, then it was simply a numbers game to determine if someone could make a living off their writing.
Partially. There are different things I've experienced throughout life that I've added to my series as 'echoes' in a sense. Loose references that people will similar experiences will relate to, and only when it makes sense for the character or situation.
I believe a good cover is the most important thing you can get for your book. It's what initially grabs (most) readers' attention while scrolling through dozens of books per search page. You need to be able to stand out, and a poorly executed cover will give some readers the impression you don't care about your work. It's important to know the trends for your genre, then try to stand out while remaining 'on brand' for that genre.
Title, I think, is less important. However, whimsical or hilarious titles--when used well--can be a huge draw for people. Usually, the cover, blurb, and content of your sample have to support that type of title.
I have, and it took a while for me to realize what causes it for me.
Which leads into my advice: Learn how your brain works best. Some people work best as a planner, or as a pantser, or as a hybrid of the two. Forcing yourself to go against how your brain works makes it highly likely you will run into writer's block. For me, I can't plan. Otherwise, I hit writer's block within seven chapters. If I pants, I can write seven chapters in two days or less.
Do what works for you, and don't let others shame you into writing their way.
I have friends, family, and colleagues who check the negative reviews first to see if the feedback is valid. They act as a filter between me and the vitriol/trolling that can occur.
As for dealing with bad reviews, I remind myself that even the most popular authors get shredded in comments, reviews, and critique. If it's valid, then it's something I can apply to better my work. If it's vitriol, well, I don't see it because of the amazing people in my life.
My wrist. I have ongoing issues with my right wrist due to my mouse, so I've had to do most of my writing via 4thewords on my cellphone. Using my PC for extended amounts of time hurts, and dictation isn't an option currently.
The fact that guys don't agree what guys are like. I have some great friends who let me ask them literally anything I might need to know. But, not everyone is the same. Even if most of my friends agree on one aspect of being male, there will always be people who disagree--and blame my sex for that 'mistake.'
Passion and execution. Most readers can tell if your heart isn't into something, or if you're only doing it for a paycheck. Write the stories you want to read. Invest time and money to make certain they're edited well. Learn from your editors. Don't stifle your passion.
Pace yourself. Work with your brain, not against it. A lot of stress and emotional drain can come from forcing yourself to plan or pants--whichever one doesn't work for your wiring. Aside from that, remember to take breaks. Give yourself weekends, if you need them.
Even working with your brain doesn't prevent burn out, but it can increase how much work you're able to do before getting there. With proper management, you should be able to avoid it.
