Here are seven common mistakes or obstacles that can keep people from achieving success as fiction writers:

1. Not writing regularly: Many aspiring authors struggle to make progress on their writing projects because they don’t write regularly enough. Consistent writing is key to developing the skills and discipline necessary to complete a full-length work of fiction.
2. Not reading enough: To write well, it’s important to read widely and deeply in the genre you’re interested in. Reading helps writers to develop their craft, learn from other authors, and stay up-to-date on current trends and techniques.
3. Not seeking feedback: Without feedback from other writers or readers, it can be difficult to identify and improve weaknesses in your writing. Joining a writing group or seeking feedback from trusted beta readers can help you identify areas for improvement and refine your craft.
4. Not revising enough: Writing is rewriting, and many aspiring authors fail to revise their work thoroughly enough to bring it to a publishable standard. Revising is a crucial part of the writing process, and it’s important to be willing to make changes and take feedback in order to improve your work.
5. Not understanding the market: If you’re writing with the goal of publication, it’s important to understand the market and the expectations of readers and publishers. Failing to do market research and write within the conventions of your genre can make it harder to find success as an author.
6. Not being persistent: Writing is a challenging and often frustrating pursuit, and it’s easy to get discouraged when faced with rejection or setbacks. However, persistence is key to success in any creative field, and it’s important to keep writing and submitting your work even when it feels difficult or discouraging.
7. Not balancing creative and business skills: To be a successful author, it’s important to have both creative and business skills. This includes not only writing and storytelling skills, but also the ability to network, market, and promote your work effectively. Neglecting either of these areas can limit your potential for success as an author.