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...
Sunday, March 9
Walks with My Friend (children's story)
Walks with my Friend follows two dogs, fearful Abby and confident Reba, as they take their daily walks. Abby explains how Reba helped her become more confident. Walks with My Friend was inspired by the friendship between my dog and a dog from the neighbourhood.
Sunday, March 16
Sam (short memoir)
Do you remember your first pet? Was it a bunny, a goldfish, a hamster, a cat, or maybe a dog? This is a tribute to my first pet.
Sunday, March 23
Hamster (short memoir)
I've always loved animals and they've all...most...many...some have loved me. This is a story about the other ones.
Sunday, March 30
April Fool(ishness) collection
a collection of silly writing to make you chuckle.
