It just takes time

I tried to write my first novel when I was 18 but half way through my happy go lucky girl became a bitter and hateful woman whom I hated. And I couldn't make her any other way. So I abandoned her. That was when I learned that writing wasn't about me. I didn't have control. The characters did. And they would not do the things I wanted. I have since tried to write countless novels but never reached the end. Until now. Now it's time for second draft.