One of the most common questions I get asked, both at events, and during author interviews, is if I have any writing advice. I always quote Agatha Christie first:
“There was a moment when I changed from an amateur to a professional. I assumed the burden of a profession, which is to write even when you don’t want to, don’t much like what you’re writing, and aren’t writing particularly well.”
Christie’s advice worked for me because it made me realize that if I wanted to be a published author—and I did—I needed to start treating it like a job and not like a hobby.
But what if you’re not quite ready to become a “professional writer?” What if you just want to hone your craft? Here’s the best advice I can give you:
Make time to write every day. The writing muscle is like any other muscle; the more you exercise it, the stronger it becomes.
If you exercise regularly, you know the truth of this statement. Exercise regularly and you start to feel better. Stronger. Suddenly, you’re making better food choices. You’re parking as far away from the mall entrance as you can, instead of circling around the wheelchair accessible parking, looking for a spot right next to it. You’re in control and proud of it.
You also know that a couple of days off can lead to a week off, which can lead to a month off…and before you know it, you’re sitting on the couch, eating junk food, watching reality TV, and feeling sorry for yourself. What the heck happened to that buff-body-in-progress?
The same thing can happen with writing. As long as you’re writing every day—even if it’s just for thirty minutes—you’ve got a work-in-progress. Maybe it isn’t perfect, maybe it’s not even very good…but as every day goes by, it gets better, easier. It becomes something to look forward to, instead of something to avoid. It becomes part of your daily routine.
You don’t have to start big. Even marathon runners start with that first mile and gradually add more distance every week. Writing is no different. Think of it as a word marathon and don’t forget to enjoy the journey!
Great advice, Judy. Sometimes when I’m stuck I merely have to sit down and start writing and the plot problem resolves itself.
You are so right Marilyn. It’s usually solved by butt in chair, fingers on keyboard!
Very true. And something I needed to hear after the last week or so of dragging my feet.
We all drag our feet on occasion Robert!
No, you do not watch reality shows as you know they are scripted fakery. Instead, you watch British crime shows so that your adult son can walk around the house and yard and say, “Excuse me, Inspector, but there has been a murder.” Your adult son will even pull this in public thinking he is funny. At the store. At the car dealership. At the doctor’s office. Even at the local library where a librarian overhears, asks questions, and soon is discussing what to watch. Quickly, all the librarians will join in the discussion that will go on for many minutes.
That sounds like fun, Kevin~
Good advice, Judy, even for a long-time writer. I like the marathon metaphor!
I thought you might Kathleen!
That’s always been one of my favorite quotes. In a previous office, I had it tacked up on the wall next to my desk.
Thanks Kay, you can’t go wrong with Agatha!
Great advice Judy. Thanks.
Thanks Carolanne.