12 Tips for the Best Writing Life Ever
By Edie Melson @EdieMelson
The writer’s life isn’t an easy one. So much of what we create
comes from some place deep inside ourselves. Giving that way can be exhausting,
not to mention frustrating, when we feel empty.
The good news is that there are things we can do to help
ourselves. I’ve come to learn that we either set ourselves up for success or we
set ourselves up for failure. This week, I’ll share some of the writing and
blogging hacks that every successful writer needs to know.
12 Things Every Writer Needs to Remember
1. Writing is a mind game—and our minds play tricks on us. When we’re in a good
mood, we have confidence. When something goes wrong, that confidence melts
away. Successful writers don’t base their confidence on emotions.
2. Speak kindly to yourself. Along with the attitude comes the way we
treat ourselves. We talk junk to ourselves in ways that we would never talk to
someone else. Decide right now to stop. Speak words of encouragement to
yourself and you’ll speed the path to success.
3. Take care of yourself physically. Writing isn’t just hard
because of the mind games. It’s hard on our bodies. Just sitting all day has
shown to cause horrible health problems. Take time to get the exercise you need
and fuel your body with healthy food and plenty of water.
4. Schedule some rest and relaxation. I’m not necessarily
talking about napping, although that's not a bad idea. Writing regularly is
important, but so is time away. Take a drive, plan lunch out with a friend,
whatever helps you relax.
5. Follow a regular writing schedule. Notice I said regular—not
normal. You may only be able to write late at night, or early in the morning.
Or you may only be able to write on the weekends. Whatever works for you is
fine—as long as you do it regularly.
6. Surround yourself with other writers who have the same
commitment. This is so important. If you surround yourself with others who
aren’t serious about writing or those you constantly have to shore up and
encourage, you’ll wear yourself out. Find people who are committed to finish
well, no matter what life problems crop up.
7. Set goals that you can track and measure. If you can’t tell how
close you are to a goal, it’s pretty frustrating, so make sure the goals you
have are ones where you can track the progress. For example, set a goal to send
out so many queries or proposals or attend so many conferences. Don’t make
getting a publishing contract the goal. You really don’t have any control over
a publisher saying yes or no. BUT you can write the book, send out the queries,
and get everything in place for when it does happen.
8. Invest in your dream. You have the right to follow your heart. Don’t let anyone
say you don’t. But don’t be your own worst enemy. Invest time, effort, and
money in making your publishing goals a reality.
9. Learn how to take critique. Writers seem to range from one extreme to
the other. We either think everything we write is perfect and better than
anything out there. Or we think everything we write is junk. We have no
perspective. Find others you respect and listen to what they have to say about
your writing. Improve where you need to, and relish the parts that truly are
great.
10. Read regularly. I know that none of us has the time, but successful writers
(those who are growing in their craft) know it’s vital to take the time. Read
regularly, read deeply, and read widely.
11. Never go anywhere without a notebook. That notebook might be a
note-taking app on your mobile device, but never be without a way to record
ideas. Inspiration ALWAYS strikes at inconvenient times. Don’t get caught
without a way to capture an elusive idea.
12. Keep writing, no matter what. Yes, life happens. But no
matter what rough time you’re going through, keep writing. You might be able to
put away the formal projects when a crisis hits, but keep writing something—a
journal, a poem, a prayer.
These are the things that help me keep moving forward, no matter
what. I’d love for you to add to the list.
Edie Melson is a woman of faith with ink-stained fingers observing life through the lens of her camera. No matter whether she’s talking to writers, entrepreneurs, or readers, her first advice is always “Find your voice, live your story.” As an author, blogger, and speaker she’s encouraged and challenged audiences across the country and around the world. Her numerous books reflect her passion to help others develop the strength of their God-given gifts and apply them to their lives. Connect with her on her website, through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Our
lives are busier each day, and the margin we have available for recovery and
peace is shrinking. Edie Melson helps you find Soul Care solutions using
devotions and prayers and opportunities for creative expression. She has
learned that sensory involvement deepens our relationship with the Father and
gives rest to our weary souls. She will teach you to tap into your creativity.
Reconnect with God using your tactile creativity. Warning! This book may become
dog-eared and stained. Draw in it. Experiment with your creative passions.
Learn the healing power of play. Allow God’s power to flow through creativity. Soul
Care for Writers will become your heart treasure.
(Photos courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net/Stuart Miles and Edie Melson.)
TWEETABLE
I learn many valuable lessons and great wisdom from Edie Melson. :-)
ReplyDeleteMelissa, thank you so much! I’m so glad I able to share what God has taught me, blessings, E
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