Continuing Education for Writers

By Andrea Merrell

“I want to write a book,” the woman said. “Where do I start?”

If there was ever a loaded question, this one qualifies with five stars.

As we know—especially those of us who have been writing for some time—writing and writing well is a process, not an event. Even when gifted with natural talent, there is a strict learning curve. And because the writing and publishing industry changes constantly, that curve has no end.

Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned author, one of the foundational principles we need to develop is self-discipline. That might mean setting aside a time each day to write or creating a space that becomes your sweet spot for penning words. It might mean letting go of other things that distract you or keep you from meeting your goal. Or it could mean using your time wisely in order to meet deadlines. Whatever the answer is for you personally, continuing education is essential for each of us. That might include:

• Joining a critique group.
• Finding a writing buddy.
• Attending local workshops.
• Setting aside the funds once or twice a year to attend a writers’ conference.
• Participating in classes online.
• Reading books on the craft.
• Entering contests.
• Asking beta readers for honest feedback on your writing.

Author H. Jackson  Brown Jr. says, “Talent without discipline is like an octopus on roller skates. There’s plenty of movement, but you never know if it’s going to be forward, backward, or sideways.”

If you feel like that octopus, constantly moving but getting nowhere, it might be time to fine-tune your self-discipline. Ask yourself this question: What have I done in the past year to improve my writing? If the answer is “nothing,” make a plan today to do something that can help push your skills to the next level. A sign in a local garden center says, The best time to plant a tree is twenty-five years ago. The second best time is today.

Moving forward and becoming excellent at what you do takes time, effort, money, self-sacrifice, and large doses of self-discipline. Be willing to pay the price. 

If you’re a new writer, be content to start small but not content to stay there. What you gain in the beginning might be minimal, but your investments will pay big dividends. Take a risk. If you face rejections, don’t quit. Don’t let failure derail your efforts. It just might mean that you need to invest more time and energy in your education. Make sure you pick places where your gifts are encouraged.

One writer says that anything we do can always be done better, so keep growing. Keep learning. Keep pursuing your passion.

And make sure you don’t neglect continuing education.

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