Whenever I make a daily To-Do list, there is always one item I include. Regardless of the day of the week, the homework load, or how tired I am, I remind myself I need to get it done. And it is never done. I put in on my list day after day, check it off, and put it on again the next time I make a list.
Writing.
Well, duh, you’re probably thinking. You’re a writer. Today I want to emphasize a piece of advice I have heard from almost every author I’ve heard give advice.
Write. Every day. Even if you don’t want to. Even if you don’t know what to write about.
Now, I won’t get into the debate of whether writer’s block really exists, but I will repeat what I’ve heard countless times. Writers improve their craft by practicing it. The only way to improve is to write consistently. It doesn’t have to be the next great novel, or even something you plan to publish. Simply getting into the habit of writing often will help you produce more, publishable material.
It is so hard to commit to writing every day. I struggle with it. But I’m working hard to make it a habit. I journal, I write stories, I work on my book, I write devotionals, I blog, and I free-write. Variety helps new ideas flow.
So for you aspiring writers out there, keep going. Get your thoughts on paper; don’t wait for them to ‘fully form’. That won’t ever really happen unless you start writing. So get to it!
Until next time, fellow wonderers!
Kate G. Jameson 