"To Make a Long Story Short"...Or The Case Against Tight Writing

Write tight.
It’s been one of the cardinal rules of creative writing since the beginning of time.
Word economy, we are told, helps readers embrace and experience our stories with a minimal mental haul.
It respects their time.

Not to mention, when it comes to print publications, brevity goes over big with editors. Fewer words often translate into fewer pages and less printing and production costs for magazines and newspapers.

But, for all its virtues, tight writing can come across as “anemic” writing. As with all things, there is a proper place and time for it.

Here’s a case in point.
Many years ago, I came across a “call for submissions” that seemed like a fun, exciting project. The publisher was seeking stories from women across the world who strategically used their "womanly wiles" to successfully land the hunk of their dreams.
It spoke to my heart.

My pen couldn’t move fast enough as I relived the magical moments I experienced when I became involved with a man with whom I had been best friends for what seemed like a lifetime.
There was just one problem.
As my rough draft unfolded, the story ended up being 200 words over the designated word count.

Like a skilled butcher, I scoured my piece multiple times to “trim the fat”.
It was a no go. Every time I would try to rewrite it to fit, I had to omit important details, or it didn’t have enough “oomph” to have real depth.

Frustrated I decided to send it off anyway.
But, I opted to attach a brief note with it, explaining to the editor my situation.
To my surprise, weeks later I got an acceptance letter. It actually beat out hundreds of other entries, and not one word was cut. Not one.

When the book was published, I was proud of what I had produced and glad I had chosen to stick to my guns and not compromise my story.

How to judge when writing tight is really right...

There’s no doubt about it: different types of writing require different approaches and different considerations. Here are a few genres and projects where writing tight is an important requisite for success.

AD COPY
GREETING CARDS
POETRY
BLOGGING

With this serving as a guideline, here are a few things to ask yourself to determine how much to include and what to toss during the creative process.

1. At the end of your piece, are there any gaping holes or unanswered questions?
2. Have you been repetitious in anything you’ve shared?
3. Does your piece have a distinguishable beginning, middle, and end with smooth transitions?
4. Like a good meal, do you feel ”full” after you read it to yourself and process it?

Less is not always more.

Think of good writing like you would a good recipe. Ultimately, it’s not how many ingredients that go into the mix, but the amount of love and attention that yields the perfect results.

No matter how many words you choose, always go BIG or go home! :-)

Thoughts? Are you an advocate of tight writing?

Image: Stock Photo

Are You Working Harder, Not Smarter? Five Reasons Your Output > your income

Are you working hard, but hardly making ends meet?
Have you actually considered "throwing in the towel" because your sweat equity seems greater than your returns?

Chances are, you're guilty of the same mistakes and mindset that stunts the growth of writers of all genres and backgrounds.
If so, it's time to work smarter, not harder.

"Riddle me this?"
What's the purpose of being a freelancer if it's not to enjoy certain "freedoms" while maintaining an enjoyable quality of life? Hello?

With this in mind, let's examine some of the reasons you may not be earning your worth for your words.

1. Buying into the myth of the starving artist.
Don't get me wrong, starving artists DO exist, but it's not to be considered an "absolute" cardinal rule as a writer. You don't have to suffer for your art.
And while productive activities certainly enhance your overall success, your mindset makes a difference too. Well-to-do authors like J.K. Rowlings, Stephen King, John Grisham, and Terry McMillan should serve as constant reminders of the infinite possibilities available to all of us. Remember, "so a man thinketh, so it is."
Aim high.

2. You've got no goals.
Goals are like a roadmap on the path to success. How much would you like to make this month? This year? Would you like to write a book in the future? Do you have a business plan? Put your goals in writing, along with designated deadlines to go the distance.

3. You're choosing the wrong types of writing.
Be advised: all writing is not considered equal. Though circumstances vary, writing for businesses typically pays more than penning pieces for magazines.
Print publications often pay more than online sites. Feature writing pays more than blogging. Make it a point to know the ins and outs of the industry. Devote the bulk of your efforts to what yields the most profit. It's a no-brainer.

4. You're not seeking expert advice.
Whether it's through reading and applying the words of wisdom from best-selling authors or A-list bloggers, it's important to pay attention and take note.
It's virtually impossible for any of us to know all there is to know about the vast field of writing. Shorten your learning curve and increase your odds for success by studying and gleaning from the many resources at your disposal. Because if you haven't got a clue, you haven't got a chance!

5. You don't govern your time like you govern your money.
Time is a commodity. Yet many squander it foolishly.
Recognize that being busy is not the same as being productive.
Are you with me here? Watch out for time wasters.
Like...folks who hold you "hostage" on the phone. Spending excessive amounts of time being social on social networks. And not prioritizing properly. Not that all your hours have to be mapped out and accounted for. There are certainly times when I kick back with a box of chocolates and do an all-night movie marathon, or shop for hours with gal pals, or surf the Net for bodacious blogs. But, I work hard so I can play hard. And I never miss a deadline. :-)

Well, there you have it folks. Thoughts? Confession time...which are you guilty of?

Image: Stock photo

10 Ways to Reconnect With Your Writing Core-The "Roar" Series Presents Noelle Sterne

Depressed about your writing? Buried under an avalanche of rejections? Ready to unsubscribe from your own email and pursue a career in dry wall?
What you need is to reconnect with your writing core.
If you feel you don't have one, you do. If you feel you haven't written enough to deserve one, you qualify anyway.

Your writing core doesn't care how much or what you write—poetry, publicity releases, or plumbing manuals. It doesn't test, screen, require a resume, or demand membership dues. It never asks hard questions like how much you've published, what awards you've won, or what you've earned this year from writing.

How do you get to your writing core? You don't need to meditate bare-chested in frigid temperatures. Or trek through some brow-scorching wilderness on your knees. Or walk without socks on a bed of nails even an enlightened master would reject.
It's much simpler. Wherever you are—right now—you can find your writing core. Even though you may not yet be certain what it is, like every other writer, you have experienced it.

But this doesn't mean your writing core is accessible at the snap of a pencil. It's more than our fantasies of book tours and talk shows, more than our January sworn oath to write 20 pages a day, and more than the uncontrollable grin when we manage to get something published. Our writing core hides beneath all our reasons, promised self-discipline, and dreams of reward.

Our writing core is different for each of us, and we may not easily be able to label it. But when you reach it, you'll recognize it like a longlost childhood doll.
Our writing core is what makes us write.

Sometimes we don't need to invoke it consciously. It bubbles up joyfully, sending us bounding to our computer, typewriter, clipboard, yellow pad, spiral notebook, or the nearest used napkin. Other times, our core knocks, nudges, pulls, or shames us into punching off the TV, despite the hot new cable movie, and go tussle with our manuscript.

But at more desperate hours, our core seems to dive deep underwater, allowing only tantalizing glimpses, like lightning fish darting through coral. Our core submerges when yet another rejection arrives of that most cherished, labored-over piece. Or we've inexplicably lost all interest in the work that so fired us up last week. Or we get a great idea but haven't a clue where to begin.

At such times, to get going again, we must tap more consciously into our writing core. How?
          
Most of the time, our connection is haphazard, the result of combined lamentation, supplication to the god of abandoned writers, and decimation of a two-pound bag of corn chips. But this approach can take days, weeks, or months, and gain you 30 pounds.

There's a better, more conscious way to reconnect with your writing core. It's much less damaging and much more quickly reviving than all that weeping and munching.

1. Stop trying to write. Stop telling yourself you have to. If you miss a few days, you won't be destroyed or condemned to eternal block.

2. Go to a quiet spot, with no disturbances of kids, neighbors, phone, stereo, or reality shows. Take a few deep breaths. Relax.

3. Let your mind go back to a time you really enjoyed writing. Maybe it was two years ago, last month, or yesterday. What were you working on? What materials were you using?

4. Reconstruct that experience. Where were you? What was the physical setting like? How were you dressed? See yourself writing in that environment. Replay it.

5. How did you feel? Don't try to force the memories or bully them into being. They haven't been lost. If you're quiet and patient, they'll emerge.

6. Live those feelings. Re-experience them. Feel your ideas flowing, fingers again moving, singing on the page.

7. As you allow these thoughts, pictures, and feelings to surface, you'll start sensing something. It will stir in you, as excitement, maybe, a physical sensation, a desire, a word, phrase, or image.

8. Whatever arises, give it time. You'll know it . . . .
You've reached your writing core.

9. Bask in your core. Let it move you, as naturally as a cat stretching in the sun.

10. And then, gently, without hurry, listen as it tells you what to write. No judgments. If it's a current project, fine. If it's a journal entry, fine. If it's a long-delayed letter, also fine.

You’ve reawakened your writing core. And whatever your lapses, it cannot be lost. It's always within you, ready to support, sustain, and guide.

So, when you feel frustrated, bored, hopeless, or any of the other buzzing self-disparagements that swarm in our heads, don't despair. Wherever you are, just stop, sit quietly, breathe, and let yourself remember. And as surely as you blink in the first morning light, you’ll reconnect with your writing core.


Bio:
Author, editor, writing coach, and spiritual counselor, Noelle Sterne writes fiction and nonfiction, with specialties in writing craft, spiritual self-help, and personal essays. She has published over 250 pieces in print and online venues, with many guest posts. Noelle’s Ph.D. is from Columbia University, and for over 28 years she has helped doctoral candidates (finally) complete their dissertations. In her book, Trust Your Life: Forgive Yourself and Go After Your Dreams (Unity Books), Noelle draws examples from her practice and many other aspects of life to help readers let go of regrets, relabel their past, and reach their lifelong yearnings. Visit Noelle at www.trustyourlifenow.com.

Don't Shoot the Messenger-5 Take-away Tips From Dancing With the Stars!

Okay, so call me shallow.
The only reason I'm tuned in to T.V. this season on Dancing With the Stars is Maks.
He's a fine work of art. :-)
That and the fact that there isn't much else engaging on Monday nights in my viewing area.

Of course, this is not to say anything disparaging about the other dancers.
I'm sure they're perfectly lovely people.
But, to tell the truth, most I hadn't even heard of until their appearance on this popular show. With the exception of Ricki Lake and Chaz Bono.

Anyhow, I digress a bit here...

Lately, I must admit, I'm a bit perplexed as to comments and controversy surrounding recent episodes. Specifically, the "stars'" reactions to the judges' comments regarding their routines.

As such, I decided to pen this post to share what I've learned from all the hoopla.
Because I firmly believe that writers, (at least good ones) are "performers" too.
Though the method and the venue may be different, there are indeed parallels.
Wouldn't you agree?

With this being said, here are a few take-away tips we can apply to our careers.

1. Criticism comes with the territory.
Whether you're being "judged" by an editor, a Blog reader, or a publisher, you have to be able to deal with scrutiny and feedback. Bottom line.

2. You must be receptive to feedback in order to grow.
In all fairness to Maks, there is a right and a wrong way to provide criticism in order for folks to be able to embrace it and apply it. But trust me when I tell you, it's an "art" that not every one has mastered. Try to find the positive, learn the lesson, then continue to "dance"!

3. There is something to be said for those who have been in the business longer than you have.
Sure, "experts" are people too, and occasionally make mistakes. But many times, they have the objectivity, experience, and credentials to help us mold our careers for maximum results. Listen.

4. Sometimes you're gonna have to be the "bigger person" Charlie Brown. :-)
There's a proper place and time for everything. And sometimes criticism can be unfair and untrue. Just the same, suck it up! "Excellence has its own reward." Are you feelin' me here?

5. Talent is only part of the equation.
I've said this before, but I'll say it again. Popularity matters. People skills matter. Politics matter. Poise matters. Always make sure your ego doesn't overshadow your excellence.

In closing, I should mention that Maks later elaborated on his position, in terms of some of the things he said, and attempted to soften things up a bit.
I certainly hope he's not kicked off soon.
Especially with my sweet tooth for "eye candy". :-)

Your turn. What's your take? Talk to me.

Image Stock Photo

The Rhythm is Gonna Get You! How writers can use Poetry to hone their craft...

“The rhythm is gonna’ get you!”---Gloria Estefan

Would you like to be a better “performer” on page? To have your words “wow” today’s reader? Do you have difficulty with structure and flow? Or perhaps your goal is to be brief but substantive in your expression.

If so, you might be surprised to discover that there is much that poetry offers to writers of all genres seeking to enhance writing skills and
become more profitable. And I should know.

Long before I earned a living at doling out advice to the lovelorn, penning profile pieces, or blogging, I published poetry. Lots of it. Some good---some not so much.
Still, this “former life” and creative license has often caused editors to comment positively on my flow, smooth transitions and facility with words. Appealing like “music to their ears.”

Which ultimately translates into greater interest, a greater acceptance rate and greater pay.
If you too want your work to stand out, require less revision, and say more with fewer words, here are a few tips and poetic techniques to enhance your efforts and your bottom line.

1. Keep it short and sweet. Word economy is crucial in poetry. Crafting couplets, quatrains and Haikus requires a specific amount of lines, and sometimes even syllables. You’ll find that adhering to structured formats will help you to maintain editors’ word counts and submission guidelines for projects like anthologies and interviews.
Need a quick refresher on poetic techniques and definitions?
Check out: www.poemofquotes.com/ and experiment. You’ll also find that poetry proficiency lends itself to writing for greeting card markets as well.

2. Read your work aloud. To render a specific feel, sound and impact, poets often read their words aloud to perfectly polish their pieces. You should too. It’s the best way to detect typos, awkward phrasing, and poor structure.

3. Make use of metaphors. A Metaphor is a figure of speech that implies a connection between two unlike things. For example, life is often compared to a journey, or to a road, or to a lesson. Metaphors do to writing what spices add to cooking: they enhance the overall experience and add a little “flavor“.

4. Exercise your creative license. Poets are known for distinguishing themselves by daring to be different. e.e. cummings was noted for using lower-cased letters and breaking capitalization rules, for instance. Though you should observe most rules for formal writing, there are a few that can be broken to your benefit. I sometimes use fragments, or end sentences with prepositions, when doing so makes sense and suits my creative purpose. Word!

5. Establish symmetry by varying sentence length. Sentences that are too short throughout your piece come off as choppy. Long ones can cause the reader to over labor and become lost. Use a combination of both for greater success in your word choices.


Follow these five tips and you’ll give your work a more competitive edge and increase your earnings. Charles Baudelaire perhaps said it best, “Always be a poet, even in prose.”

Image cjansuebsri

Guest Post***The Roar Series**Cythia Clampitt

The Virtues of Writing Longhand

Reading recently that some schools have stopped teaching cursive writing, because almost no one writes longhand anymore, both saddened and alarmed me. There is more to writing by hand than just getting the information down, and there is much to be lost by eliminating this skill.

Of course, I readily acknowledge that using a computer has many virtues, especially for a busy writer, but in relying solely on computers we are forgetting one very important fact: we are physical beings, and certain physical tasks simply work better. For example, with note taking, the act of writing the information processes that information in a way that goes beyond merely copying. We must recognize the words, understand which ones are worth writing down, and then physically write those words on paper. Even if we never look again at what we have written, we are more likely to remember the information, because it has been processed and sorted by our brains and transmitted to our hands.

For writers, an equally important function of writing longhand is that it activates the right side of the brain—the creative side. If I’m staring at a blank computer screen and can’t think of where to start, I just grab a pad and pen and start writing, even if what I’m writing is, “I’m stuck and I have to do something to get unstuck.” Within a few minutes, the ideas begin to flow. (If I’ve taken notes longhand for a story, I may not get stuck at all, as the act of writing the notes will often have me ready to write by the time I reach my keyboard. However, I have had to rely on this time-tested trick more than a few times.)

I travel a great deal, and people are always surprised that I travel with a small, spiral-bound notebook and pens, rather than a laptop. I often simply explain that, if you’re camping in Mongolia, for example, the notebook has the advantage of not needing to be plugged in. A notebook is also easier if you’re in a 4WD bouncing along a rough track, and I’ve even jotted a few notes while perched on the back of a camel. However, I also know I will remember more and write more if I’m writing longhand. On average, for a three-week trip, I will return home with at least 150 pages of notes from the destination—and usually another ten pages of story ideas, poems, or character sketches that just come to me because I’m so locked into right-brain creativity while writing longhand.

So if you’ve stopped writing longhand, I urge you to consider starting again—and if you have children, make sure they know how to write longhand. It can be hugely satisfying, but even if you get no pleasure from the act of writing, at least know that you can use it tap into your creativity more quickly than with almost any other activity.

Brief Bio:
Cynthia Clampitt is a freelance writer specializing in food, travel, history, geography, and language arts. She is the author of the award-winning travel narrative Waltzing Australia, which recounts the six-month, 20,000-mile wander down under that marked her departure from the corporate world. Clampitt has written hundreds of articles for magazines and newsletters, including an award-winning food-history column, and has written history, geography, and language arts materials for every major educational publisher in the U.S., including the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation.

Pen & Prosper welcomes your comments on this post. Writers, do you find any benefits to writing longhand? Or do you find computers to be more efficient? What's your process of creating?

Are There "Cliques" and "Politics" in the Field of Writing?

Ask any freelancer what he most enjoys about the freelance life and no doubt you’ll hear things like freedom, escape from office politics, and not having to deal with favoritism.
Think again. Although the dynamics are a bit different, writing as an industry is not totally void of cliques and politics.

Since freelancing many moons ago, I’ve found the creative community to by and large be a place with groovy people, great support and a spirit of generosity.
But, much to my surprise, politics still exist. I won’t bore you with the details of who, what, when, and where…but trust, sooner or later it rears its ugly head.:-)

So, for the purpose of testing this theory, I do what most writers do: I conducted some research, consumed some chocolate and polled some people, and here’s the 411 on what other creative souls had to say. Read and heed!

"The only time you won't encounter politics in this life, is when you're not in this life." ---Elaine C.

"A resounding YES! From writers to soccer moms, from husbands to wives; no grouping of two or more is immune from playing the ugly game of power."---N. Brill

"Yes, I think to an extent politics may play a part in the writing world. While I do believe that editors are willing to give new writers a shot if they like a query or submission, I'm certain that they will deal with -- or even reach out for -- a writer they've worked with in the past who has proven himself\herself and that they can trust before considering new writers.
That's maybe NOT political, but logical -- at least to me."---Steve

"I personally think politics exists everywhere. As long as there is jealousy, envy or any other negative feelings, crap will arise."---Anonymous

Pen and Prosper welcomes your perspective and your comments. Do you think that politics exist in writing? Should they exist? Has this dynamic ever impacted you in your career personally? What lesson did it teach you?

5 Ways to Overcome Writing Setbacks and Move Forward!

It was a wintry Wednesday morning, with below 0 temperatures, and I felt blessed to work from my home office and enjoy some of the perks of the writers’ life.

At 6:29 a.m., poised to start my day, I plopped my bottom in my office chair with the hopes of increasing my bottom line. My goal was to write two how-tos for writers’ zines, a feature article for a singles’ publication, and to hit Craigslist to surf for more job leads.

But “Murphy’s Law” had imposed a different agenda for my day.
By 7:30 a.m. the only thing I was working on was a migraine and the desire to crawl back under the covers and check out for the day!

My computer was acting as if it had been possessed! I kept getting error reading messages, it would shut down in the midst of my work, and my mouse was dancing like it was in The Nutcracker Suite!

No doubt as a writer, you’ve had one of these days from hell that seem destined to spoil your productivity and your groovy mood.
Don’t let it!

Whether it’s writers’ block, an uncooperative computer, a biting rejection letter, or self-doubt, here’s how to overcome some common “work related hazards” and stay in the game.

1. In the words of Sarah Palin, “Don’t retreat, reload!” Instead of going back to bed and watching Green Acres and sitcoms all day, I simply regrouped. I decided that if my computer wouldn’t cooperate, I’d simply take down my ideas with pen and paper. It worked for us in B.C. (before computer) days. In times of trouble always have a plan B.

2. Keep your sense of humor. It’s true that laughter is the best medicine. And if you keep your wits about you, it will lower your blood pressure and keep you focused on the big picture. After all, things could be worse. You could be on a 9 to 5 gig having a bad day with a bad boss to boot!

3. Shift gears. About a year ago, I was blessed to discover the joys of gift basket making. I revert to this when I need to recharge my creative battery. Oftentimes, creative artists will find that they are gifted in other areas. Some draw cartoons, others paint, some garden, etc. To ensure some “net profit” for your day, work on anything that relaxes you and allows you to enjoy some degree of productivity. Some is better than none.

4. Refuse to let stress become a distraction. Keep your eye on the prize. Take a few deep breaths, spew a few positive affirmations, adjust your thoughts and then get back to the task at hand. Learn to go with the flow.

5. Revisit your success stories. Sometimes we need to be reminded of our awesome efforts and the lives that we touch through the written word. When you’re in a funk, read those Emails from fans, or the words of encouragement from an editor, Google your name, or pull out that check stub from a recently paid piece. Bask in the glow and recognize that there will be good days and bad in this business. The key is to commit and keep moving forward.

Follow these five tips and you’ll enjoy less burnout and greater financial and spiritual rewards in 2010. And you’ll find that even “days from hell” can be made heavenly with some ingenuity and the right perspective.:-)

How do you deal with writing days when things go wrong? How do you stay motivated amidst rejection?
What lessons have you learned along the way?

5 Ways To Use The Boob Tube To Get Into The Writer's Groove!

Statistics show that the average American spends more than four hours a day glued to the “boob tube”.
That comes out to 28 hours a week, or more than half of the standard work week.

For the typical couch potato, this popular past-time pursuit can translate into unproductive down-time and unwanted pounds. But, for the savvy scribe the boob tube can be a smart choice for generating creative ideas and a steady cash flow.

Contrary to popular opinion, all T.V. is not to be considered “junk food” for the mind. As with many things in life, “it all depends on how you choose to look at it.”
As a veteran freelance writer and relationship columnist for many years, I can attest that when it comes to T.V. land, “there's gold in 'dem there hills.”

Here's how to capitalize on it and cash in:

1. Weigh in---Have you ever found yourself fussing at the T.V. in frustration over a ridiculous position voiced by a politician, public figure, or commentator? Put pen to paper and give your two cents on the matter. For example, while recently watching “The View”, I strongly disagreed with one of the host's (Elizabeth's) assertion that when men visually check out attractive women outside of their relationship, it predisposes them to cheating. Hogwash.
Just because you look at the menu doesn't mean you have to order, right? My rebuttal on this topic became an article entitled “The Roving Eye Syndrome.” It appeared in a national magazine for singles, and I earned 100 bucks for my two cents.

2. Increase awareness---Some time ago, I learned on a T.V. news program that one of my favorite columnists, Mary Mitchell, was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. As a matter of fact, so have quite a few of my favorite entertainment icons. This disheartening discovery motivated me to learn more about this devastating disease and to write a column on this topic for one of my weekly forums for women.

3. Share the Aha Moments!---Talk show forums like Oprah and Tyra often provide opportunities to uncover self-defeating habits, destructive relationship patterns, and unhealthy lifestyle choices through expert guests and no-holds barred dialogue. Tap into it and help others to live a more enlightened life.

4. You be the judge---I'm a big fan of the many courtroom T.V. shows---from Judge Judy, to Judge Mathis, to Family Court, to Divorce Court. These daily “dramas” are a virtual gold mine for what not to do in familial and personal relationships. No topic is taboo. Not to mention, the names and characters can be changed to form the foundation for fictional pieces. Tune in and take note.

5. Uplift the masses---For me, writing is a ministry. To be “spiritually fed,” I find myself watching minister Joel Osteen weekly, and putting a spin on his eloquent sermons and the related scriptural lessons. You can too.


By following these five timely tips you'll soon discover why the boob tube is a smart choice for a successful and profitable writing career.

Has TV ever inspired your writing? Do you consider it a good source for new writing material? What's your take on this topic?

Unrealistic Expectations and The Unsavvy Writer

Would you feel confident having a surgeon to perform a major operation if you found out that you were his first procedure?

Would you hire a wedding planner who had never coordinated an event before your "big day"?

Probably not.

Yet I'm amazed in my role as a writing coach and former senior editor, at how many newbies and "aspiring writers" feel that they inspire confidence from potential publishers, and should be compensated handsomely for their work.

They want to bypass the development stage and land major clients right away.
Some even consider it beneath them to write for free.

Huh?

There's no such thing as an overnight success in this business. Many of the well known authors and established writers you read online toiled many years, studied their craft, and paid their dues before receiving the visibility and following they enjoy today. And it shows in the quality of their work.

Now it seems that far too many folks are declaring themselves as "writers" without any training, track record, or in some cases, (I hate to say it) true talent.

Sure, the occupation is a seductive one. Often it's even glamorized. Not to mention, the advent of the Internet makes it within hand's reach of anyone with minimal computer skills.

As such, people love to see their name in print and claim their "15 minutes of fame."

But, unless you want to be a "one hit wonder," it would behoove you to take the time to tend to some of the basics of the industry like grammar, spelling, sentence structure, Internet savvy, business management, research, marketing and the stuff that "true writers" are made of.

You owe it to yourself and your readers.

That's my take on the topic. What's yours?

10 Ways to Reach Your Full Writing Potential in 2010!

It's January.

The typical time when folks find themselves constructing resolutions and promises for self-improvement and a better life.

Perhaps you're one of them.
If so, Kudos to you!

Progress is always a beautiful thing in my book.

But progress always comes with a price.

It's impossible to move forward in 2010 without a little self-reflection and analysis regarding previous practices and developmental needs. Wouldn't you agree?

When it comes to writing, many scribes are finding that their pay doesn't match their productivity, which leaves them scratching their head in frustration. Don't be one of them.

Here are 10 things to help you reach greater heights this year as a writer.

1. Learn from your mistakes---We've all made them. Whether it was taking on an assignment without a written contract, making a regrettable remark on a Blog, not devoting enough time to marketing, or other mishaps, assess and apply.

2. Know your strengths and weaknesses---In my capacity as a writing coach and instructor, I encounter so many creative artists who are clueless as to what they do well and what they need to improve. Never let your EGO stand in the way of your EXCELLENCE.

3. Have realistic expectations---In this business, it's rare to find an "overnight success".
Be willing to hone your craft in order to increase your cash! Know that you must pay your dues first, success and fame will come further down the line. Don't consider yourself "too big" to write for free. Evaluate each situation on its own merit.

4. Get "trusted advice"--- Few realize that not everyone is qualified to guide you on your writing path with honest, useful feedback. Though members of your church might serve as a great source of inspiration, unless they are published authors themselves, don't treat their words of wisdom as "gospel." Seek a mentor who has experience in areas that you seek to venture. Or join a local writers' group in your area.

5. Don't overlook the small stuff---No matter how skilled you are with the written word, poor grammatical and spelling ability will brand you as an amateur and prevent you from elevating to a higher level. Trust me, in the big picture it matters.

6. Do it Now! Procrastination is the enemy.:-) Stop putting off taking that writing class, or buying business cards, or revamping your Blog. Remember that a journey of a thousand miles begins with that first step.

PART 2 TO FOLLOW THIS WEEK!

Enjoy your day.

DAY 2 PART 2


7. Learn to be your own biggest fan and worst critic--- Accurate assessment of the quality of your work can greatly reduce your rejection rate with editors. It's one of the reasons that I've never needed to be a part of a critique group. (Of course it probably helps that I've worn the hat of editor too.) Make sure to read your work aloud; it's the best way to catch errors and to improve your flow.

8. Treat writing as a business---Always conduct yourself with professionalism, observe protocol, invest in your success, and have a plan B.

9. Recognize that there is great truth to the adage, "the early bird catches the worm." Get up early and get going! It will make a real difference in your productivity and your bottom line.

10. Read! It's virtually impossible to become a good writer unless you visit the words of other successful writers to determine what appeals to a reading audience, and what works vs. what doesn't.


That's it for now folks.

Do you agree or disagree? What tips will you take with you to enhance your writing career this year? Do tell!