Goodreads
Goodreads asked C.M. Genton:

What’s your advice for aspiring writers?

C.M. Genton Everyone has something to say to others and a story that matters. Much of that will be communicated informally.
However, if someone is compelled to take their story (fictitious or true) to the general public, be prepared to invite critique before publishing.
Critique can be painful but it's necessary in order to make your writing accessible to readers. What's in our heads does not necessarily translate well to others.
Get all the free critique you can, but definitely pay for the best you can afford.

About Goodreads Q&A

Ask and answer questions about books!

You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.

See Featured Authors Answering Questions

Learn more