1. Write. Write. Write.

 

Practice. Practice. Practice.  After, all practice makes perfect, right? 

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Well, let's face it. Perfection doesn't exist. Especially in writing. Because no mater if you're on your first draft or your billionth (well, it may seem like it), there probably is something that needs to or could be changed. But sometimes, you can get pretty close. And that makes a final draft. Strive for that. Writing practice will get you there.

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What should you write?

 

Anything. Everything. Write what you know. Branch out to something new. Yes, there's lots of talk about needing to stay in one genre or one area of writing to make a career and it's  fine to have that main focus. But, I'm here to tell you, especially when you are needing the practice, writing anything is okay. There are some basics, like "Show Don't Tell" that can be mastered by any type of practice. 

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My goal towards publishing may be slower paced because I have practiced at many types of writing. But all that practice, has gotten me to this point - where I can share my dreams on MY VERY OWN AUTHOR WEBSITE!  

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And while my focus is on writing for Children, I'm not going to let anyone squash my dreams of someday sharing other stories bouncing around in my brain. No need for you to do that either.

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Now, are you struggling with finding time to write? Has life gotten in the way of your dreams? This brings me to my next bit of authorly advice:

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2. If your a writer, call  yourself a writer!

 

For a long time, I didn't identify as a writer, even though I was writing. Why? Because everything I read said I needed to be writing daily.

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But, I couldn't. Life happened. And some of life left me with long seasons of no writing, but I always came back. 

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Writing daily is still a great goal. One I'm closer to attaining. But don't let that little piece of advice become a lie saying you can't be a writer. Even if your slowly inching towards your goal at a snails pace with writing, studying, and practicing, call yourself a writer-because you are!  

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And don't forget to share your dreams. Start a facebook page or use another social media site. Start a blog. Identifying as a writer will help you reach your dreams and unleash your potential. Plus, you'll take yourself a bit more seriously. And if life happens...it's okay. It will all be where you left it.

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3. Connect with writers.

 

Communicating with other writers is a must.

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Find a writing group. Attend a writing conference. It will open your world to a great world of learning about the craft. 

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And along with that, get a critique of your writing.  This is often how I learn best.

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Find a critique partner, online critique group, or a writing group that critiques each others work. Pay for a professional critique. Conferences often offer opportunities for this. It will open your eyes and improve your work immensely. 

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Critiquing the work of others helps lots, too!

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