The best way to end writer's block is to write. Okay, so you say you don't know what to write. I'll help you. Finish the following writing prompt and write at least three sentences. If you go further great!
"I regret the mistake I made when I..." OR "My life is perfect because...."
I'm sure you'll be able to finish one or the other. If nothing else, it will help you to get something on your paper or computer.
Happy Writing!
Showing posts with label writing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label writing. Show all posts
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Thursday, September 10, 2009
The 4 Deadly Sins of the New Writer
Bright-eyed and bushy tailed, new writers come on the scene with a boat-load of enthusiasm and great ideas. They're ready to take on the world...and the publishing industry. I wonder if they know what they're getting themselves into.
While they start out with zest, however, somewhere along the line, many new writers fall into the pit of discouragement. They forget about the words they wanted to write in order to change the lives of their readers. The thought of writing to solve people's problems goes right out of the window.
Where did they go wrong? I believe they committed one of the 4 deadly sins of the new writer. If you're not careful writer, you could fall into the same pit. Below you'll find these 4 Deadly sins:
1) Procrastination.
Solution: Write something everyday
2) Allowing the discouraging words of others to stop you from writing.
Solution: Refuse to believe negative words and write a response to the comment that was made in your writing journal.
3) Allowing a few rejection letters to stop you from writing.
Solution: Work to improve the manuscript you sent off to the publisher(s) and send it to another publisher.
4) Allowing unexpected or traumatic circumstances to stop you from writing.
Solution: Write through your pain. You can even write about the experience. It's therapeutic!
While there are so many things that can prevent you from writing, you must be willing to press through your mess and write despite your hindrances. After all, life happens, but as a writer, you can respond to it through your pen and paper!
While they start out with zest, however, somewhere along the line, many new writers fall into the pit of discouragement. They forget about the words they wanted to write in order to change the lives of their readers. The thought of writing to solve people's problems goes right out of the window.
Where did they go wrong? I believe they committed one of the 4 deadly sins of the new writer. If you're not careful writer, you could fall into the same pit. Below you'll find these 4 Deadly sins:
1) Procrastination.
Solution: Write something everyday
2) Allowing the discouraging words of others to stop you from writing.
Solution: Refuse to believe negative words and write a response to the comment that was made in your writing journal.
3) Allowing a few rejection letters to stop you from writing.
Solution: Work to improve the manuscript you sent off to the publisher(s) and send it to another publisher.
4) Allowing unexpected or traumatic circumstances to stop you from writing.
Solution: Write through your pain. You can even write about the experience. It's therapeutic!
While there are so many things that can prevent you from writing, you must be willing to press through your mess and write despite your hindrances. After all, life happens, but as a writer, you can respond to it through your pen and paper!
Monday, July 13, 2009
The Cost of the Glamorous Life
Many of us view our favorite authors and writers as living the glamorous life. Why? Because we see them on TV and we see all the wonderful reviews about their books. Then we begin to think, "Wow, he/she must have everything. I wish I had what they had."
However, with any type of fame and attention, there comes a price. What is the price paid for the glamorous life of an author?
On their part, the author has to:
Is this the type of life you want to live?
If you answered yes, then you need to count the cost. What do you need to do right now as an aspiring author to reach your writing goals?
Does this sound like the glamorous life to you? Even if it doesn't if you're committed to following through on your dreams and making the necessary sacrifices, you can one day see your name in print.
However, with any type of fame and attention, there comes a price. What is the price paid for the glamorous life of an author?
On their part, the author has to:
- Put in the time to write their best selling book
- Create a marketing plan
- Sacrifice sleep, family time, and other necessities in order to meet deadlines
- Spend time promoting their books
Is this the type of life you want to live?
If you answered yes, then you need to count the cost. What do you need to do right now as an aspiring author to reach your writing goals?
- Decide on what you want to write
- Decide your target audience
- Start writing everyday regardless of your mood or how your feeling physically
- Refuse to listen to negativity
- Create your marketing plan
- Read books on writing and marketing
Does this sound like the glamorous life to you? Even if it doesn't if you're committed to following through on your dreams and making the necessary sacrifices, you can one day see your name in print.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Tyler Perry or Bust!
Famous playwright, author, and writer, Tyler Perry inspires me greatly as a writer. I love his plays, his movies, and his sitcoms, Meet The Browns and The House of Payne.
Mr. Perry often shares his testimony of going from poverty to financial prosperity and fame. In it, he discusses the power of hope, forgiveness, and persistence. While I don’t want to do the exact type of writing as Tyler Perry, I do admire the things he has done to become successful at his writing.
Tyler has the:
Mr. Perry often shares his testimony of going from poverty to financial prosperity and fame. In it, he discusses the power of hope, forgiveness, and persistence. While I don’t want to do the exact type of writing as Tyler Perry, I do admire the things he has done to become successful at his writing.
Tyler has the:
- Ability to write
- Passion to write
- Passion to meet people where they are and solve their problems through writing
- Wisdom to use his past experiences to shape his writing projects
- Power to overcome adverse situations
- Tenacity and commitment to complete his writing projects
- Maturity to ignore his haters
- Boldness to accept and enjoy his success
If we all can follow these attributes, we will see our writing explode and touch the lives of our reading audiences nationwide and maybe across the world!
Monday, June 22, 2009
Gratitude
Are you experiencing a bad day? Maybe you lost your wallet or had an argument with a loved one. Maybe your children won't stop crying and you're ready to run away from the house as fast as you can.
Take a deep breath and realize that we all experience bad days. However, we can't allow them to hinder us from completing the tasks we've planned for the day--especially writing.
At times when we're thrown off from our plans for the day, writing seems to be the first thing we neglect. We think it's not as important as paying a bill or making an important phone call, for instance. We reason that we have writer's block because we can't think clearly, but you can overcome your writer's block by writing down at least five things you are thankful for. It may take a few moments to do, but you can accomplish two things by doing this:
Get some writing done.
Gain a proper perspective of your situation by seeing the good in your life despite your bad day.
Go ahead, writer, take some time to show gratitude through your writing. I'll give you the first one: "I'm grateful for being able to pick up a pen to write!"
Take a deep breath and realize that we all experience bad days. However, we can't allow them to hinder us from completing the tasks we've planned for the day--especially writing.
At times when we're thrown off from our plans for the day, writing seems to be the first thing we neglect. We think it's not as important as paying a bill or making an important phone call, for instance. We reason that we have writer's block because we can't think clearly, but you can overcome your writer's block by writing down at least five things you are thankful for. It may take a few moments to do, but you can accomplish two things by doing this:
Get some writing done.
Gain a proper perspective of your situation by seeing the good in your life despite your bad day.
Go ahead, writer, take some time to show gratitude through your writing. I'll give you the first one: "I'm grateful for being able to pick up a pen to write!"
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
One Size Doesn't Fit All!
Do you ever remember purchasing an outfit or an article of clothing labeled "One Size Fits All"?
You take the item home only to find out that you are not included in the "All." Maybe your arms are too long or maybe the robe is just a little too snug for you. It's disappointing to say the least.
What happens when you don't seem to fit the mold of the "typical writer"? Maybe you're not sure what direction to take, or maybe you're not apart of the writer's group everyone is raving about. To make things worse, you've just received a boatload of rejection letters for the manuscript you worked months to perfect. Because of these situations, you begin to question your ability to write and you wonder if you still need to write at all.
Wait! Before you close your laptop or retire that pen, understand that every writer has a different pathway. Take some time to ask yourself some questions, so you can reevaluate your situation.
Consider the following questions:
Just because one size doesn't fit all doesn't mean you can't keep searching until you find the right fit for your passion to write!
You take the item home only to find out that you are not included in the "All." Maybe your arms are too long or maybe the robe is just a little too snug for you. It's disappointing to say the least.
What happens when you don't seem to fit the mold of the "typical writer"? Maybe you're not sure what direction to take, or maybe you're not apart of the writer's group everyone is raving about. To make things worse, you've just received a boatload of rejection letters for the manuscript you worked months to perfect. Because of these situations, you begin to question your ability to write and you wonder if you still need to write at all.
Wait! Before you close your laptop or retire that pen, understand that every writer has a different pathway. Take some time to ask yourself some questions, so you can reevaluate your situation.
Consider the following questions:
- Is this the best time for you to write?
- Are you writing in the proper genre?
- Do you have a specific target group who needs to read what you're writing?
- Are you passionate about what you're writing?
- Do you need to start with smaller projects?
- Have you had someone to edit your writing?
Just because one size doesn't fit all doesn't mean you can't keep searching until you find the right fit for your passion to write!
Friday, June 12, 2009
John & Kate Plus 8 -- Too Many?
The media is having a field day with the couple of the hit reality show, John and Kate Plus 8. According to various TV shows and magazines, the couple is having major marital problems, and the entire world is watching their lives unravel before our eyes.
In two words, I would say, "Too many." Of course I don't mean too many kids! People have had multiples for years and their marriages survived some of the toughest times. For John and Kate, too many eyes are watching them, too much exposure for the family, and too many people's opinions are being made about their lifestyle. These things can cause stress on the marriage and they threaten to tear a family apart.
Writer, do you have too much going on in your life? Are these things preventing you from writing effective information? Do you find it hard to complete your writing projects because of so many distractions?
What are some things you can and should eliminate in order to focus your mind, heart, and keyboard on getting back to the basics of writing? Below you'll find some things you can eliminate from your "hectic" schedule:
In two words, I would say, "Too many." Of course I don't mean too many kids! People have had multiples for years and their marriages survived some of the toughest times. For John and Kate, too many eyes are watching them, too much exposure for the family, and too many people's opinions are being made about their lifestyle. These things can cause stress on the marriage and they threaten to tear a family apart.
Writer, do you have too much going on in your life? Are these things preventing you from writing effective information? Do you find it hard to complete your writing projects because of so many distractions?
What are some things you can and should eliminate in order to focus your mind, heart, and keyboard on getting back to the basics of writing? Below you'll find some things you can eliminate from your "hectic" schedule:
- Watching reruns of your favorite show
- Searching the Internet for hours on unnecessary information
- Watching soap operas and reality shows
- Taking long naps
- Talking on the phone for long periods of time
While these things may be difficult to break away from, doing it can give you the exact time you need to refocus and get back on track with your writing!
Monday, June 8, 2009
Be On Time!
In 2008, when I began working at an office job, I made a conscious decision to work at being on time to work and any other appointments. This is significant for me because I had been in sales for over five years previous to this time. My sales job had me spoiled in that I never really had a set schedule, so there was no obligation to rush to be on time.
Now that I'm a full-time writer, I'm finding myself working harder to stay in a "schedule" mode, in order to complete my writing assignments.
Being on time, whether it's for work, a meeting, or even a family obligation, is vital. As writers, we have deadlines to meet. Whether we're working independently or doing an assignment for an editor or publisher, it behooves us to set goals and complete our assignments on time. Doing this demonstrates to others that we value a person's time and rules.
What can you do to be on time with your writing assignments?
Now that I'm a full-time writer, I'm finding myself working harder to stay in a "schedule" mode, in order to complete my writing assignments.
Being on time, whether it's for work, a meeting, or even a family obligation, is vital. As writers, we have deadlines to meet. Whether we're working independently or doing an assignment for an editor or publisher, it behooves us to set goals and complete our assignments on time. Doing this demonstrates to others that we value a person's time and rules.
What can you do to be on time with your writing assignments?
- Start writing once you find out about the assignment.
- Create a schedule for completing the assignment.
- Write something everyday.
- Complete your assignment at least 2-3 days before the deadline.
Friday, May 29, 2009
Sticky Situation: Lebron James Must Win Every Game!
I was very cynical lastnight as I watched the game between the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Orlando Magic. As always, the Cavaliers start off strong in the first and second quarters, only to fall short in the last two. It happened again. They were ahead and then lost momentum in the third quarter.
In my mind I gave up, but...the Cavs pulled it off. They won the game 112-102! I was impressed, but now they're in a sticky situation. In order to win the Eastern conference championship and move on to the NBA championship, they must win the last two games. It's pressure to say the least.
You writer might find yourself in a sticky situation: You may think you lack the time, the skills, and the influence to write. But just like the Cavs, you've got to take it one step at a time. How?
1) Recognize your potential through your experiences and passion to write.
2) Write at least a paragraph a day.
3) Refuse to stop.
4) Don't listen to haters and naysayers.
5) Like Lebron, get the eye of the tiger!
While the Cavalier's victory to the Eastern Championship is not certain, you can make your writing destiny a surety if you possess the passion and the confidence to see your writing go to publication. Just do it!
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Let's Get It On!
One of my favorite love songs is by the late Marvin Gaye entitled, "Let's Get It On," because it's a song that speaks of action.
Action is important for anyone who wants to move forward in life. It's the only way you'll find success. Not only this, you can't expect anyone to take action for your situation except you.
Writer, it's time for you to take action and pursue your destiny. What's holding you back?
Is it:
Action is important for anyone who wants to move forward in life. It's the only way you'll find success. Not only this, you can't expect anyone to take action for your situation except you.
Writer, it's time for you to take action and pursue your destiny. What's holding you back?
Is it:
- Fear?
- Your current circumstances?
- Pain (emotional or physical)?
- Sickness?
- The death of a loved one?
While these things can sometimes set you back from pursuing your writing dreams, don't let them stop you from doing it. In fact, use your problems to write. Talk about them and find solutions through your writing. It can be therapeutic and you can in turn create a project and help others!
Let's Get It on and write!
Saturday, May 23, 2009
It's Never Too Late -- Lebron Won!
In the last second of the basketball game last night, Lebron James made a three point shot and gave his team a 1 point advantage. They won game 2!
As a writer, it's never too late. Start writing today because you never know what victories lie ahead.
Have a great weekend.
As a writer, it's never too late. Start writing today because you never know what victories lie ahead.
Have a great weekend.
Friday, May 22, 2009
Cramped Up! -- Lebron James Lost
107 to 106, Magic. I can't believe it! For those of you who know about NBA basketball, this one's for you. If you're a writer, but don't know, hold tight. This message will still help you.
While I'm a Spurs fan, I really want to see Lebron James and his team, the Cleveland Cavaliers win the NBA championship this year. He's seems to be a good guy and he's an awesome player. Unfortunately Lebron got cramped up, although he still had a stellar performance. Nevertheless, his performance wasn't good enough to beat the opposing team, the Orlando Magic.
Despite his team's win, the Orlando Magic coach, Stan Van Gundy said of Lebron, "We don't know what to do with him." In other words, although Van Grundy's team won the first game, Lebron is still a force to be reckoned with. But if Lebron is such a good player, then why did his team lose the first game? When asked how his Orlando Magic team won the game, Van Grundy answered this question in one word, "Resilience."
Resilience is the ability to keep fighting regardless of the situation.
As a writer, this is what you need to see your work become published. You can't get cramped up and stop writing. You've got to keep fighting despite writer's block, despite rejection, and despite the changes that life brings. Your fight will eventually defeat your obstacles and you will come out victorious.
My hope for Lebron James is that he will take care of his cramps and win the game tonight!
Go Cavs!
While I'm a Spurs fan, I really want to see Lebron James and his team, the Cleveland Cavaliers win the NBA championship this year. He's seems to be a good guy and he's an awesome player. Unfortunately Lebron got cramped up, although he still had a stellar performance. Nevertheless, his performance wasn't good enough to beat the opposing team, the Orlando Magic.
Despite his team's win, the Orlando Magic coach, Stan Van Gundy said of Lebron, "We don't know what to do with him." In other words, although Van Grundy's team won the first game, Lebron is still a force to be reckoned with. But if Lebron is such a good player, then why did his team lose the first game? When asked how his Orlando Magic team won the game, Van Grundy answered this question in one word, "Resilience."
Resilience is the ability to keep fighting regardless of the situation.
As a writer, this is what you need to see your work become published. You can't get cramped up and stop writing. You've got to keep fighting despite writer's block, despite rejection, and despite the changes that life brings. Your fight will eventually defeat your obstacles and you will come out victorious.
My hope for Lebron James is that he will take care of his cramps and win the game tonight!
Go Cavs!
Friday, May 15, 2009
Bring It!
When I watch various musicians, athletes, and other celebrities, on TV, I'm amazed at the exposure and the pay they receive for using their talents. Does Lebron James deserve the millions he rakes in for one basketball season or does Beyonce need to get the millions she receives just for singing and dancing, for example? I'll leave that answer up to you.
However, one thing I do know is whether on the court or on a stage of thousands, these people know what they are doing and they give it their best: They bring it!
You, writer, possess the gift to speak to your readers through crafting words. Of course getting started my be tough, but once you find your rhythm and flow with your pen or keyboard, you're good. And while you may not be on TV yet and you may never win an award for your accomplishments like Celine Dion or Brad Pitt, you can make a difference in the lives of your target group members -- those who will read and benefit from the words you write.
What can you do to bring it?
1) Have confidence in yourself and your writing
2) Look beyond the present frustrations of creating your writing project
3) Never give up
4) Enjoy writing
5) Set goals for yourself
Regardless of who reads your writing, it's important for you in every instance to bring it! This will give you the most satisfaction because you're doing what you love and you're helping others at the same time.
Yours truly,
The Resource Writer
However, one thing I do know is whether on the court or on a stage of thousands, these people know what they are doing and they give it their best: They bring it!
You, writer, possess the gift to speak to your readers through crafting words. Of course getting started my be tough, but once you find your rhythm and flow with your pen or keyboard, you're good. And while you may not be on TV yet and you may never win an award for your accomplishments like Celine Dion or Brad Pitt, you can make a difference in the lives of your target group members -- those who will read and benefit from the words you write.
What can you do to bring it?
1) Have confidence in yourself and your writing
2) Look beyond the present frustrations of creating your writing project
3) Never give up
4) Enjoy writing
5) Set goals for yourself
Regardless of who reads your writing, it's important for you in every instance to bring it! This will give you the most satisfaction because you're doing what you love and you're helping others at the same time.
Yours truly,
The Resource Writer
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Cherish The Gifts You Still Have
Last Sunday, I celebrated Mother's Day with my mother and 91 year old grandmother. This was a special day for me because just a few days ago I found out my mother was in the hospital. To say the least, this news devastated me, but what could I do being six hours away, but pray?
Yes, prayer does change things! The day after I arrived in town, my mother was being released from the hospital. This was one of my best Mother's Day not only because I'm a mother, but because I still have my mother with me. While we tend to view certain issues differently, my mother is a gift to me and I'm overjoyed that she's walking, talking, and still alive to share her testimony with others.
While we should cherish loved ones, we should also cherish our gift of writing. It's an ability that not all people possess, but it can change the way people think and ultimately live their lives.
How much do you cherish your ability to write?
If you really love writing, then you will spend time with it and you will sharpen your tools.
Take time today to write something meaningful and thank God for your ability to communicate valuable information to your readers.
Once you see the value in your writing, others will take note and cherish your gift as well.
Yes, prayer does change things! The day after I arrived in town, my mother was being released from the hospital. This was one of my best Mother's Day not only because I'm a mother, but because I still have my mother with me. While we tend to view certain issues differently, my mother is a gift to me and I'm overjoyed that she's walking, talking, and still alive to share her testimony with others.
While we should cherish loved ones, we should also cherish our gift of writing. It's an ability that not all people possess, but it can change the way people think and ultimately live their lives.
How much do you cherish your ability to write?
If you really love writing, then you will spend time with it and you will sharpen your tools.
Take time today to write something meaningful and thank God for your ability to communicate valuable information to your readers.
Once you see the value in your writing, others will take note and cherish your gift as well.
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