Becoming an Author Later in Life
Starting a writing career and aspiring toward becoming an author later in life might feel intimidating, but it’s a thrilling, rewarding adventure.
You don’t have to follow a conventional path to become an author. Whether you’ve spent years honing your craft or you’ve just recently discovered a passion for storytelling, it’s never too late to dive into the writing world!
I’ve had the privilege of working with many authors who began writing later in life, and I can tell you firsthand that their stories are inspiring. Writing later in life is not just possible—it can be a deeply enriching “second act.”
Why Start Writing Later in Life?
Writing in your later years comes with its own set of benefits, from life experience to a deeper sense of purpose. You’ve likely lived through a variety of experiences, both joyful and challenging, that will naturally translate into rich, meaningful stories. These experiences can often give your writing a depth that younger writers may not yet possess!
Additionally, becoming an author later in life means you’re doing so with intention. You’re not simply following trends or trying to conform to what’s popular—you’re embracing your own voice, which is incredibly valuable to readers. I would think there’s something exceptionally freeing about writing with that kind of clarity and purpose.
Can I Compete with Younger Writers?
Age should never be a barrier to pursuing your writing career!
While the literary world often celebrates younger authors, there are countless examples of writers who became authors later in life and found tremendous success. Laura Ingalls Wilder didn’t publish Little House on the Prairie until she was in her sixties, and Frank McCourt’s Angela’s Ashes was published when he was sixty-six. These authors demonstrate that it’s not about how old you are—it’s about the stories you have to tell.
In fact, age often gives writers an advantage. You bring wisdom, life experience, and a unique perspective to your writing, which can resonate with readers in powerful ways.
So don’t worry about competing with younger writers—focus on your voice and the stories you’re ready to share.
How Can I Find Time to Write?
When you’re balancing other responsibilities, it can be tough to carve out time to write, but finding a consistent routine is essential.
Start by setting realistic writing goals. If you can only write for fifteen minutes a day, that’s okay—great, even! The key is consistency. Over time, those small efforts will add up.
It’s also important to identify when you’re most productive. Are you an early bird who writes best in the morning? Or do you find your creativity flowing late at night? Understanding when you work best will help you set a schedule that works for your lifestyle.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to prioritize writing. Life often demands a lot of our attention, but if writing is something you truly want to pursue, it’s important to carve out time for it. Even if it’s just a few paragraphs a day, it will keep you moving forward.
How Can I Improve My Writing Skills?
No matter where you are in your writing journey, there’s always room to grow. Here are a few ways you can improve your skills:
Read widely
The more you read, the more you learn. Pay attention to different writing styles and techniques. What resonates with you? What draws you in? Reading is one of the best ways to develop your voice as a writer.
Take classes or workshops
Writing courses (many of them online) are an excellent way to learn new skills, gain insight into the craft, and receive constructive feedback. Whether it’s a local writing group or an online workshop, these spaces are invaluable for both learning and building community.
Here are three great resources for writing classes and workshops:
MasterClass – Learn from bestselling authors like Neil Gaiman and Margaret Atwood, offering in-depth lessons on writing techniques and storytelling.
Gotham Writers Workshop – Provides both in-person and online writing courses, with a variety of workshops for different genres and skill levels.
Coursera – Offers writing courses from top universities such as Wesleyan University and the University of Iowa, perfect for those seeking a more academic approach to writing.
Write regularly
Writing is like any other skill—you get better the more you practice. Challenge yourself to write every day, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Over time, you’ll notice improvement in your writing style and confidence.
Seek feedback
It can be intimidating, but constructive feedback is essential for growth. Joining a writing group or finding a trusted critique partner can help you get valuable insights into your work.
Publishing Paths for Second-Act Authors
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to publishing, and the right path for you will depend on your personal goals, preferences, and the level of involvement you’re comfortable with.
It’s important to consider all your options, and one path that can be especially appealing for authors starting later in life is hybrid publishing.
Self-Publishing
Self-publishing offers complete control over every aspect of the process—from writing and editing to cover design and marketing. If you enjoy being hands-on and making decisions about your book, this route could be a good fit. Platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) and IngramSpark make it easy to get your book out into the world.
However, self-publishing does require a significant investment of your time and energy. You’ll need to learn the ins and outs of book production, marketing, and distribution. While you keep all the creative control, you’ll also be responsible for every step in the process.
Traditional Publishing
Traditional publishing offers a team of professionals who handle the editing, design, and marketing of your book. While the process can be slower and more competitive, it provides the support and credibility of established publishing houses.
If you choose the traditional route, you’ll typically submit your manuscript to agents or publishers, which can be a lengthy and competitive process. Once accepted, however, you’ll have the backing of a publisher to help bring your book to market.
Hybrid Publishing (The Best of Both Worlds!)
Hybrid publishing combines the benefits of both self-publishing and traditional publishing. It allows you to keep creative control while receiving professional support in areas like editing, design, and marketing. This model offers a more personalized approach, with you retaining more control and a higher percentage of royalties than traditional publishing.
Hybrid publishing provides a great balance: you get the expertise you need without the burdens of managing every aspect of the process. It’s especially beneficial for authors who want to focus on writing and creativity, while still benefiting from professional support to help their book succeed.
At Atmosphere Press, we offer a hybrid publishing model that might be a perfect fit for authors starting later in life. With hybrid publishing, you gain access to a professional publishing team, while still having the freedom to make the decisions that matter most to you!
Which Path is Right for You?
There’s no right or wrong choice—what matters most is what suits you best at this stage in your writing journey. Consider your goals, the level of control you want, and the amount of support you need.
Each publishing path offers its own benefits, but hybrid publishing can be a perfect middle ground for authors who want the best of both worlds.
How Can I Build an Audience?
Building an audience takes time, but with patience and persistence, you’ll find your readers. Here’s how to start:
Social media: Platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook offer a way to connect with readers and fellow writers. Share updates about your writing process, snippets from your work, and personal insights that give people a glimpse into your creative life.
Create a website or blog: Having an online space dedicated to your writing helps you build credibility and connect with readers. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy—just a simple website with a list of your published works, an “about” page, and a blog where you can share updates and writing tips.
Network with other authors: Writing can be a solitary pursuit, but it doesn’t have to be. Attend writer’s conferences, join online communities, and engage with other authors. The writing world is filled with people who are supportive and eager to collaborate.
Becoming an Author Later in Life
For many, writing later in life is a way to rediscover a long-lost passion or embark on a new chapter of their life’s journey. Writing can provide purpose, personal fulfillment, and a sense of accomplishment. It’s also a way to connect with others, share your experiences, and leave a legacy.
Additionally, writing offers a unique opportunity to process your life’s experiences. Whether through fiction or non-fiction, writing allows you to reflect on the past, make sense of challenges, and find meaning in your own story.
Writing Is for Everyone!
Becoming an author later in life is not only possible, but can also be a deeply enriching and fulfilling pursuit. Your life experiences, perspectives, and voice are invaluable in the literary world.
It’s never too late to begin writing—what matters most is that you take that first step and commit to the journey!

Erin K. Larson-Burnett, Production Manager at Atmosphere Press (submit your manuscript here!), is a born-and-raised Southerner currently living in Katy, Texas, with her husband and their small domestic zoo. She is an avid ink drinker who lives and breathes books—during the day, she works remotely with authors around the world, honing and perfecting books published through Atmosphere Press. By night, she crafts her own stories…or at least tries to. The Bear & the Rose is her debut novel.