Interview with author Tiffany Amber Stockton on the Craft of Writing- Part 2

Welcome back to day 2 of my interview with author Tiffany Stockton!

6: What are the most common mistakes beginning writers make?

 Point of view confusion with too many points of view or switching points of view in the middle of scenes (which leads to head-hopping), too much telling and not enough showing (otherwise known as too much passive voice and not enough active voice), starting the story in a place that doesn't grab the reader or forces the writer to have too much backstory. There are others, but those are the ones that come to mind.

7: What are two things you wished you had known before you started writing?
One, how difficult it would be to gain “acceptance” being so young (I was published before I turned 30). Two, that selling one book doesn't mean you'll continue to sell. Rejections still come once you're published. It's a never-ending cycle, even when you've established yourself a multi-published author.

8: Why did you choose this profession?
As my bio says, I've been spinning yarns and embellishing stories since I was a child. I've always loved to read and write. Turning it into a career seems a natural choice. And now, I can't *not* write. It's just too much a part of who I am.

9: What advice/ encouragement do you have for the writers reading this today?
Writing is not for the faint of heart. It takes a lot of hard work, determination, patience, perseverance and faith. And it won't happen overnight.

10: Any other helpful advice?
You have to maintain a teachable spirit and be open to constructive criticism, no matter how far along in your writing journey you get. In the end, the rewards far outweigh all the sweat and tears you shed along the way. Most importantly, if you feel this is the path for you, never give up!

Thank you for taking the time to answer these questions. Writing is a tough profession and I know help of any kind is always appreciated.

Tiff: This is so true. It's not easy, but like anything else in life, if you truly believe this is the career for you, go for it! And don't let anything stand in your way. Also, try to find some other writers and readers to travel this journey alongside you. Their friendship, wisdom and camaraderie will be priceless!