In response to Mary Ann de Stefano's question--What beliefs do you hold about writing?--I write...
photo by ldyck
-Keep writing fun
-Always be ending
-Know what's next
-Do something every day to support your business
-Treat writing as a business
-Use your assets
-Try something new--experiment with your writing
-Give yourself permission to write garbage
-Keep everything you write (or as much as you can)
-You can't edit a blank page
-Be kind--just not to your characters
-Do something to support the publishing industry
-View other authors as colleagues
-Write to your target reader
-We need many authors, and many books because not all books will speak to all readers
-Marketing is enjoyable and essential. A reader is looking for your writing so you are helping them by telling them about it.
-Develop a thick skin when it comes to your work.
-Working with an editor is like going to a spa. Some of what happens will hurt but the results will be worth the pain.
-Listen to your allies with an open mind.
-Reading your writing is only one way others can support you as an author. Appreciate their help in whatever form it takes.
-An author's journey is a marathon, not a sprint.
-Learn to be okay with being alone.
-Respect yourself.
-Write what you love to read.
-Be concerned about, be aware of, and nurture your mental health.
-Be grateful.
-Always be learning.
-Value your mistakes--it's how you learn.
-Chase your characters up a tree to the edge of a branch, allow them to see help cresting the hill and then throw rocks at them.
-Don't compare your career to another author's. Every journey is different.
-Live with a sense that everything will be okay: keep a positive mindset.
-Your talent is a gift--nurture it.
-Practice, practice, practice before you give an author reading.
-An author reading isn't about you--it is a gift for your audience.
-Read authors who write better than you do--it's one of the best ways to learn.
-When a reader reads your writing you are entering a contract with them. You promise to entertain. The reader promises to keep reading.
-Earn your success
-No one owes you anything.
-Find a way to motivate yourself to write regularly--keep a blog or...
-Start each day by writing morning pages.
-Read books and magazines about the craft of writing.
-Start each day by constructing a list of tasks you wish to get done.
-Fall in love with the struggle.
-Treat obstacles as opportunities.
-If you need help, ask.
-A reader is paying you an enormous compliment by reading your work--be thankful.
-Not everyone will appreciate everything you write. Not everyone will want to read every part of your work. Accept that.
-Be thankful for those in your life who aren't interested in your writing. You are more than just a writer.
-Your writing may take you to dark places. It's up to you if you go there.
-Inspiration can come from anywhere. Live your life to find the magic.
-Budget your time and be mindful of where you spend it.
-Read today's best-sellers and award winners so your writing will remain current.
-Don't focus on writing what's trending, it won't be relevant by the time you're finished.
-Write the story that is yours to write.
-Like Steven King said: Write the first draft with the door closed and the next drafts with the door open.
-Find what motivates you and use it.
-Dream
-Celebrate small things.
-Edit while you write as well as after.
-Be prepared to give your stories as much time as they need to be written.
-No writing is a waste.
-Whatever you focus on grows.
-Only concern yourself with what you can control. (Instead of worrying about when or if you will be published, keep writing)
-You are the only one who can end your author journey.
-No one will work as hard as you on your career--nor should they.
-Believe in the power of your words.
-Your method of writing is as valid as any other method.
-Go wide--don't put all your hopes on one story, publishing house, editor or...
-If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all—especially online and about your colleagues’ work.
-Listen to your writing colleagues. They will entertain, inform, inspire, and motivate you.
-When seeking writing advice, consider the source.
And...
This is an evolving list.
Photo by Byron
Without a reader,
a writer's words mean
Nothing
Last week, I had an off-island appointment, allowing me to visit one of my favorite bookstores. Would you like to come too?
On this blog in March...
