Seek criticism. We can all improve. Art is not made in a vacuum.
Blogging is a source of support and good training for writing regularly.
Close the door.
Dream. Even during the day.
Eat well…it’s far too tempting to shovel anything in to win more writing time.
Finish your stories. Make them be the best they can be. Invest in every part of the process, from your initial concept, to editing and your cover art.
Don’t be greedy. Share your tips. Share the love.
Don’t be afraid to experiment. Hit the ball out of the park every once in a while.
Be influenced by better writers.
Jealousy is a waste of time. Concentrate on your own trajectory.
Increase your knowledge. Read well in your genre. Learn about the publishing industry. The world of books is competitive and changing. Hone your craft and your business skills.
Don’t succumb to laziness (too often).
Marketing is important, but writing comes first. And if you didn’t know already, spamming is a turn-off.
Sometimes you need to recharge. Naps energise, but when you’re tempted to hit snooze, don’t.
By Jesus Solana
Have a room of your own.
Mine your past (but don’t break the trust of those you love).
Don’t quit. You’re a writer? Write.
Reading makes you a better writer. Inhale words.
Self-help books can be addictive. Don’t let them lure you away from actually writing.
Find like-minded people on Twitter. 140 characters can catch you when you fall. They can also sign the way to the stars.
Always look for opportunities to understand those around you. Listen closely. Watch unapologetically. A wooden character never convinced anyone.
Choose the active over the passive voice.
Wordiness is the enemy of clarity.
Neither the telly nor the xbox are your friend, unless you have a core of inner steel and can walk away.
It doesn’t matter how young or old you are. It is never too late to write your stories down.
Find your zen. Writing can be a tough path. Believe in yourself. Commit. You’ll be surprised what a difference it makes.
This blog post was featured in the April 2014 First Friday Link Party for Writers on Carol Tice’s website Making A Living Writing