If you are like many writer’s, publishing a book is probably on your 2015 to-do list. You’re probably feeling inspired, excited, maybe a little scared or overwhelmed, and you’re hoping your dream won’t become another failed resolution that gets pushed to the back burner after the thrill of the new year wears off.
Well, I’m here to help. Each week in January I will offer you tips and tricks to help you accomplish your goal of publishing a book this year, and I encourage you to continue reading my posts every week throughout the year for inspiration, advice, and news that will help you become a successful author. (Be sure to check out last week’s post about setting writing goals.)
This week, I’d like to share some tips that will not only help you achieve your goal of publishing but will also improve your craft. Here are six tips that will make you a better writer this year.
1. Follow your heart.
Don’t worry about what is popular right now or stress over what readers will think of your work. The best writing comes from the heart, and you will be more fulfilled if you write what you are passionate about.
2. Step outside your box.
To learn and grow, you must try new things. Experiment with a new genre. Develop a character that is vastly different from your normal characters. Visit a new place. Try a new food. Listen to a different band. Be willing to take risks in both your life and your writing.
3. Treat it like a job.
Stop waiting for inspiration and start writing every day without excuses. You may not love what you write everyday, but at least you will get words down on paper. You can always rewrite later, and most people find the words start flowing once they just sit down and start writing. You’ll never be a published writer if you never actually write.
4. Read. Read. Read.
Whether you write fiction or non-fiction, for adults or children, the best thing you can do for your career is read! Read everything. Books, magazines, newspapers. Read various genres. Read top sellers as well as indie authors. Read about the subject you write about. Read about things you’ve never heard of. Read books for children. Read the classics. Read as much as you can.
5. Rewrite as many times as you need.
Most first drafts need a rewrite. Many second and even third drafts could use a rewrite. Don’t feel so pressured to complete your manuscript that you settle for less than your best, but be careful not to get so caught up in perfection that you never finish.
6. Unplug.
When you are writing, editing, researching, or brainstorming, unplug. Log out of your social media sites. Turn off the TV and cell phone. You’ll be surprised how much more productive you’ll be by following this simple tip.
I’d love to know, what is the best writing advice you’ve ever received?
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ABOUT JODEE THAYER: With over 25 years of experience in sales and management, Jodee Thayer works as the Director of Author Services for Outskirts Press. The Author Services Department is composed of knowledgeable customer service reps and publishing consultants; together, they all focus on educating authors on the self-publishing process in order to help them publish the book of their dreams. Whether you are a professional looking to take your career to the next level with platform-driven non-fiction or a novelist seeking fame, fortune, and/or personal fulfillment, Jodee Thayer can put you on the right path. |
Self Publishing Advisor 
Your point about stepping outside the box is an important one. If we stay in our little bubbles we’ll never grow as writers. It’s often in unexpected places where you find inspiration.