Dipping your toes into different genres may sound like an overwhelming--and tedious—task but it’s the best way to find out what works for you as a (beginner) writer. By diving deep into a genre, one by one, you’ll eventually be able to find your authentic voice and carve out a unique niche that’s your own.

The process is methodical and will take some time, so don’t try to rush the process! Here are my 3 tips for new writers exploring different genres to find their niche:

1. Sample widely then dive deep.

2. Focus on Themes NOT just tropes.

3. Embrace your unique voice and blend genres.

   1. Sample different Genres then dive in.

An important thing to remember is to not limit yourself to what you think you “should” write. A lot of writers (me included), fall into the trap that whatever is most popular, trending, sells the most copies—has to be the genre you must write. WRONG! You may end up writing a genre that you don’t resonate with and your writing will falter.

Instead, try reading and writing in variety of genres from sci-fi to romance to historical fiction. This way, you get a sample of what each genre’s styles and discover what fits for you. One practical tip is to write a full page, 800 words or more, in that genre and see how your creativity flows. If you struggle or can’t seem to grasp the genre nor the style, keep trying!

If you feel the writing falls flat, try a different niche!

Exploring, experimenting and testing different genres, helps you discover what comes naturally to you as a writer. This method gives you a clearer idea of where your strengths lie. If you suddenly feel excited about what you’re writing, congrats! That’s your niche!

2. Focus on Themes NOT just Tropes.

What themes are you attracted to? Is it friendship, overcoming fears, self-discovery? When you’re exploring different genres think about how they’re written handled across those genres. Again, don’t fall into the trap of writing what’s popular, like enemies to lovers, forced-proximity, and the raunchy ‘smut’ trope. Find what resonates with you and what you like to write.

After you’ve brainstorm some themes, test out what flows better creatively. You’ll be amazed on how your theme leaps from the page when you incorporate it into your favorite genre! The Hero’s journey in a sci-fi adventure? Hell yes! Identity and relationships in a contemporary fiction? Count me in!

If you couldn’t decide what niche to write in, by jotting down the themes you resonate with can help you narrow down the genre with the added benefit of adding your own unique and authentic voice!

3. Embrace your Authentic Voice and mix the Genres!

What’s great about writing is that your imagination is limitless. Creativity has no ceiling. You can be wild and free on the page, building worlds no one thought of. This also means you can blend genres together, mixing a variety of elements to create something uniquely yours!

Your audience will thank you for melding different genres that brings a fresh flair to your story. For example, your niche might be a fusion of romance and dystopian or fantasy with a twist of horror! The possibilities are endless! Explore and test different combinations to find your sweet spot niche!

And that’s it! I hope you found this post helpful! Remember, don’t limit yourself—be bold and write the genres you love!

🌊 Dive into the adventure of a lifetime! Ancient legends awaken, enemies rise, and the fate of the world rests on one choice: Fight or die. Join Noah and his allies on a pulse-pounding quest in The Last Guardians of Atlantis—a story of friendship, courage, and destiny! 💥

For a little more help, join me LIVE on Twitch from Monday to Friday, 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM EST! 📚✍️ I’ll be working on my second book, and together we’ll tackle tasks using the Pomodoro Method for focused work sessions. Bring your to-do list, and let’s boost our productivity side-by-side! 🚀