I used to sit and plan out stories for months before I actually began writing. I’d start writing and get frustrated that I couldn’t stick with my plan. Experience has taught me that characters, no matter how well you think you know them, have a mind of their own. Sometimes…most of the time, they can…
Category: Monday Writing Tips
Monday Writing Tips-Write Every Day
I had a ten year break from writing…not an intentional one but a decade of struggling to get back to something I once loved. When I finally overcome whatever it was that had happened to me, I made a promise to myself. I’d never go a day without writing something…yes, even if it’s just my…
Monday Writing Prompts-Make it your Own
One thing I hear from lots of my students is I’ll never be as good as…. It’s usually the name of a bestselling author they admire and read. Guess what they started out just like you. A novice…the writer who makes all the mistakes and sometimes has self doubts they’re not good enough. Don’t ever…
Monday Writing Tips-Writing is Magic
I should say that reading is magic too. If you’re a writer then I’m guessing like me you started out as an avid reader. Remember the books that held you spellbound? The stories that you got so deeply involved in that you almost cried when they were done and you had to say goodbye to…
Monday Writing Tips-Keep it Simple
When you’re a new writer you brainstorm ways to come up with fancy words and prose. Words no one has ever used before. However, as your journey continues you realize that simple is better. Communicate with your reader with words they can relate to, everyday ones that real people use and you’ve got a fan…
Monday Writing Tips-What Do Readers Want?
While I hate to tell students to write to trends and fads sometimes you have to give readers what they want. Do your research and read reviews what types of books are people enjoying? Where are there gaps? Research first and get writing.
Monday Writing Tips-Why Do You Write?
The theme this month is writing is hard. Can you stay the course? Can you keep going when your plot isn’t working out? When another rejection letter comes your way? If you can say yes then you are a writer.
Monday Writing Tips-Keep it Emotional
Is your story an emotional read? Not a tearjerker but something that makes your reader feel something. If it lacks emotion a rejection letter is coming your way.
Monday Writing Tips-Writing No Matter What
Many think writing is easy. Start writing and you’ll realize that it’s anything but. Writers never stop. Even when it gets hard, they keep on going. Be one of those writers.
Monday Writing Tips-Don’t Worry
Don’t worry if you don’t make money on your first short story. Getting a byline and gaining confidence is the key. In your early career, don’t say no to a publication printing your story for just a contributor copy and no money. Hold up that publication and say, I’m an author.