Law #28: Enter Action with Boldness — A Writer's Guide

The twenty-eighth law in The 48 Laws of Power, "Enter action with boldness," emphasizes the value of confidence, decisiveness, and fearlessness. For writers, this principle is about embracing risks, making bold creative choices, and pursuing your career with unwavering determination. Boldness not only commands attention but also creates opportunities that timid actions might miss.

Here’s how to apply this law to your writing journey and career strategy.

Taking Bold Creative Risks

Boldness in your storytelling can set you apart and make your work memorable.

1. Experiment with Unconventional Ideas:

• Taking creative risks can lead to groundbreaking stories.

• Example: George Orwell’s 1984 and its bold critique of authoritarianism cemented its place as a literary classic.

• Application: Challenge yourself to explore daring themes, structures, or perspectives that push boundaries.

2. Subvert Expectations:

• Bold storytelling often involves surprising readers and defying genre conventions.

• Example: Gillian Flynn’s Gone Girl captivated readers with its unexpected twists and morally complex characters.

• Application: Identify common tropes in your genre and find ways to reinvent or subvert them.

3. Embrace Vulnerability:

• Boldness isn’t just about big ideas—it’s also about showing honesty and emotional depth.

• Example: Cheryl Strayed’s memoir Wild resonated because of her raw, unflinching exploration of grief and self-discovery.

• Application: Don’t shy away from personal or challenging topics that add authenticity and depth to your work.

Boldness in Building Your Career

Confidence and decisiveness are essential for making progress in a competitive industry.

1. Pursue Ambitious Goals:

• Set big, audacious goals that inspire action.

• Example: Brandon Sanderson’s goal to finish Robert Jordan’s Wheel of Time series was a bold step that elevated his career.

• Application: Identify long-term career aspirations and break them into actionable steps.

2. Take Initiative:

• Don’t wait for opportunities—create them.

• Example: Andy Weir self-published The Martian after traditional publishers passed on it, ultimately leading to widespread success.

• Application: Explore self-publishing, crowdfunding, or pitching bold ideas directly to agents or publishers.

3. Embrace Rejection as Part of the Process:

• Boldness means risking failure, but every rejection is a step closer to success.

• Example: Stephen King’s Carrie was rejected dozens of times before launching his prolific career.

• Application: Approach submissions with persistence and resilience, learning from each setback.

Standing Out in the Marketplace

In a crowded industry, boldness can help you command attention and establish your unique voice.

1. Create a Distinctive Brand:

• A bold, memorable brand helps readers recognize and connect with you.

• Example: Chuck Palahniuk’s provocative storytelling and edgy public persona have made him a distinctive voice in contemporary fiction.

• Application: Develop a clear, consistent author brand that reflects your personality and creative vision.

2. Market Your Work Fearlessly:

• Bold marketing strategies can generate buzz and attract attention.

• Example: Colleen Hoover’s viral TikTok presence has turned her books into bestsellers.

• Application: Leverage social media, creative promotions, or unconventional tactics to amplify your reach.

3. Be Unapologetically Yourself:

• Authenticity is bold. Readers connect with authors who are genuine and true to their vision.

• Example: Neil Gaiman’s unwavering dedication to his unique storytelling style has earned him a loyal fanbase.

• Application: Stay true to your voice, even if it means taking the less conventional path.

Overcoming Fear and Self-Doubt

Boldness requires confronting the fears and insecurities that hold you back.

1. Focus on Action Over Perfection:

• Waiting for the “perfect” moment or draft can lead to paralysis.

• Example: NaNoWriMo encourages writers to prioritize writing over self-editing, fostering bold creativity.

• Application: Set deadlines and commit to finishing projects, even if they’re not perfect.

2. Reframe Failure as Growth:

• Every misstep is an opportunity to learn and improve.

• Example: J.K. Rowling’s early struggles and rejections fueled her determination to succeed.

• Application: View challenges and setbacks as necessary parts of the creative process.

3. Surround Yourself with Supportive People:

• A strong support system can bolster your confidence.

• Example: Writing communities and critique groups provide encouragement and constructive feedback.

• Application: Build relationships with peers who inspire and motivate you to take bold steps.

Avoiding Recklessness

While boldness is essential, recklessness can undermine your efforts. Here’s how to balance confidence with caution:

• Don’t Rush Decisions:

  • Bold actions should still be thoughtful and strategic.

  • Solution: Take calculated risks by researching and planning thoroughly.

• Avoid Overpromising:

  • Bold claims that you can’t deliver on can damage your credibility.

  • Solution: Be ambitious but realistic in your commitments.

• Stay Grounded:

  • Boldness doesn’t mean arrogance. Stay open to feedback and collaboration.

  • Solution: Combine confidence with humility to build trust and respect.

Conclusion: The Power of Boldness

Law #28, "Enter action with boldness," reminds writers that fearlessness and decisiveness are key to standing out and achieving success. By embracing creative risks, pursuing ambitious goals, and confronting self-doubt, you can transform bold ideas into impactful stories and a thriving career. Boldness isn’t about recklessness—it’s about confidently taking the steps necessary to realize your vision.

In the next installment of this series, we’ll explore Law #29, "Plan all the way to the end," and how foresight and strategic planning can ensure success in your writing journey. Stay tuned for more insights into The 48 Laws of Power for writers.