Secrets For a Realistic Writing Life*
- Take advantage of free on-line studies, like Kidlit Summer School.
- Read other writers' blogs and join in online communities to further creativity and become knowledgeable of the industry. In January of every year, try Storystorm.
- Stay sensible about your writing life, but don't be afraid to dream.
- Be aware of inspiration coming your way @ any time. Capture it down on paper.
- Keep a helpful reference library on How-to-Write. Read through them often.
- Don't neglect outside interests-- it gives you something to write about.
- Stay off the internet when you should be writing.
- Keep you behind glued to a chair as long as you can while writing, but take short breaks. Taking my dog for a walk or chasing her around the house are two of the ways I get oxygen flowing to my brain.
- Take a shower first thing upon waking. I can write better when I'm clean.
- Take care of yourself-- sleep and eat right, and don't forget to exercise.
- If you write for kids, only have other children's writers critique your manuscripts.
- Don't show your stuff to others too early in the process. Your work may not be ready to be shared.
- Join a professional writer's organization. I'm a member of SCBWI.
- Go to conferences, but choose wisely on how you spend your money.
- Don't over plan your writing schedule using publications' themes. You might be over-whelmed and never get anything written.
- Keep learning-- there's always room for improvement.
- Don't look at other writers' success stories and think your journey will be the same. You are unique and have your own path.
- Write in the genre in which you love to read. And read lots! It doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg. Local libraries are where it's at!
- Study the books of your favorite authors and pick them apart. Learn from the greats. Again, try the local library for award winners.
- Grow a thick skin. This business is full of disappointments.
- If you set goals for yourself (like words per day), start low and keep stepping it up. Little steps, where you grow bit by bit, are better than leaps off a cliff, where you stay broken among the rocks below.
- If you feel like you're on the verge of writer's block, take a nap.
- If you feel your enthusiasm waning, go out to lunch with some friends, if Covid-19 regulations permit. Or call someone who can make you laugh.
- Work hard. This writing stuff isn't for slackers.
- If publishing is your goal, stay upbeat while being realistic -- Never be discouraged.
- Stay off the internet. Did I say that already?
* In no particular order.
© Juliana M. Jones. All rights reserved.