Tag Archives: writing

February Wrap Up

This month flew by, but I’m closer to Day Light Saving and the prospect of getting more sun makes me happy. In my February wrap up, you’ll find an update on my reading and writing goals and the goals I set for myself for the following month. This month has been interesting. Quite a few unexpected things happened. Let’s see in detail what I mean…

 

Continue reading February Wrap Up

Querying : How To Find An Agent

A couple of weeks ago, I discussed how querying an agent can be a waiting game. This week, I want to give you a comprehensive list of places you can go to find an agent. So, here is how to find an agent: From a basic web search to specialized events (and a few helpful tips I’ve picked up along the way), you will find everything you need to get started in your hunt for the perfect agent.

 


 

Querying:

How To Find An Agent

 

How To Find An Agent

 

 

While self-publishing is always an option, sometimes what you want as a writer is to be able to reach a larger audience and benefit from the support of an established publisher. Or maybe you’ve previously self-published a book, but now you want to be picked up by a traditional publisher. There are many reasons why traditional publishing is best for you. Typically, the only way to do this, however, is through a literary agent.

 

So what is a literary agent?

 

A literary agent is an agent who represents you and your book to publishers (and even films studios, if they handle subsidiary rights). An agent is responsible for selling the rights of your book to publishing companies and negotiating the terms of your contract. Agents often have more responsibilities than just those two things, but for the purposes of this post, we’ll stop there.

You’ll want to ensure that your literary agent has your best interest at heart and that they are capable of helping you reach your goals as an author (and level expectations, if needed). Finding the right literary agent for you is very important. It’s like a second marriage. You need to make sure the agent you choose is right for you, and this starts early on in the process.

 

 

So where can you find a good literary agent?

 

There are a number of websites designed to assist you in finding the agent that will fit best with your needs. The first step is to know your genre (i.e., fantasy, horror, romance, etc.) and your audience (i.e., middle grade, young adult, adult, etc.). You will need to research each agent to see what genre they represent.

Do NOT send your query to everyone– you will be wasting both your time and the agent’s time and you’ll end up frustrated with the process.

 

via GIPHY

 

Before sending a query, there are several do’s and don’ts you should follow, but the most important thing is to always follow the submission guidelines.

 

AGENCY’S WEBSITE

How to find an agentThe easiest way to find an agent and find out if that agent is right for you is to check out the agent’s website. There you can see what they’re looking for, whether they represent the genre/audience of your book, and what specific submission guidelines you have to follow for your query.

The implication here is that you have names of agents whom you know who represent an author who writes similar books or that you met at a writing conference/seminar.

Tips: To find agents that represent your genre, read the acknowledgments of published books similar to yours. Agents are often mentioned in those lines. Now, a word of caution – these agents may no longer be accepting submissions. This is why looking them up is important. Also, if you’re a debut author, these agents may not be your best bet since they already have an established list of clients, but it’s worth a shot if they’re accepting submissions because these agents already have the right contacts to put you on the path to success.

 

ONLINE DATABASE

If you don’t have names of specific agents or would prefer to target agents open to receiving submissions, the following sites are your best bet. These are all essentially online databases designed to connect literary agents and authors through a trusted resource.

The site usually requires that you first create an account, but the subsequent search process is pretty straightforward. Sometimes you will also have the ability to look up projects an agent recently sold, which can give you an idea of the agent’s workload.

www.querytracker.net

www.agentquery.com

 

 

WRITER’S DIGEST (WD):

 

How To Find An AgentWriter’s Digest is a wonderful resource for authors/writers.

Book – Guide to Literary Agents

Every year, a new edition of Guide to Literary Agents is released. I guess you could say it’s the yellow pages of literary agents. Agents are all classified by literary agency, under which you’ll find a list of agents with details about what they’re seeking and more.

 

Seminars

Last week, I attended a seminar where an agent read the first 10 first pages of my book and provided feedback. She pointed out a few things I had missed, but her words were encouraging. She also provided insights on the market I’m trying to break into, which was a needed insight for me.

I revised my pages accordingly and sent them back to her. I’m still waiting on her final feedback, but overall the experience has been invaluable. This seminar also provided to all writers attending the opportunity to discuss with the agent about comments from the feedback or questions related to the industry. This live discussion was very informative. I believe attending a seminar like this is a good way to determine if you’re ready to present your work.

The agent also pushed me to think of my book as a product. I found looking at my work from her point of view very interesting. In a nutshell, I highly recommend this type of seminar for new writers.

 

Blog

Another thing I like about WD is that they have posts on their blog about new agents and what they’re looking for. This blog is a fantastic way to learn more about the industry.

 

WD Conferences

WD hosts two conferences a year. In August, the first conference is held in New York where they often hold a pitch wars session with numerous agents. It’s a little like speed dating. This is one way to meet agents and pitch your ideas in a short amount of time.

The other conference is held in Pasadena in October. I met agents there who only accept submissions if you’ve attended their class. These conferences are a great opportunity to access agents. You get to meet them and get a sense of whether your personality and work ethic will match.

 

 

SOCIAL MEDIA (Twitter):

I would first advise you to start with the sites and the book I mentioned above, but it can also help to get involved in some specific events on social media, especially on Twitter.

For example, PitMad on March 7 is an event not to be missed if you’re querying agents. You’ll have the ability to pitch your book on Twitter using the #PitMad hashtag and agents will be online all day reading all the pitches.

 

 

If they are interested, they will like/favorite your tweet. You can then reach out to interested agents (who may have a guideline specific for this event on their website). You should send them an email with “PitMad request” or something similar in the subject line. Don’t forget: agents do not like attachments, so put everything you want to say in the body of your email.

This event is a wonderful way to reach a lot of agents at once. There are many more events like these on Twitter, but the two main Twitter events for pitching are PitMad and DVpit. This year, DVpit will be held on April 23 (Children and YA) and April 24 (Adult).

Here is another article from Publisher’s weekly written by Claire Kirch about events on social media that connect writers and agents. This article also provides some excellent pitch examples.

 

Another resource to help you find the right agent

Publisher’s Marketplace is another website that provides a plethora of information on how to find a literary agent, an editor, or articles on the various trends in the publishing industry.

This information is very useful and informative. This site is great for authors who want to obtain pertinent information, especially if you are deciding whether or not to sign with an agent. To access this site, you are required to pay a $25 monthly fee (with no long-term commitment).  I would say this site is a good way to find out more about new deals that were recently signed and other industry information.

 

*****

 

Overall, finding an agent isn’t hard, but it requires time and meticulous research. This is something that can be extremely beneficial for you as an author in the long run. Keep in mind that the querying process can be as challenging as writing the book itself. At the last writing conference I attended, someone asked a published author what set them apart from other authors, what they thought they had done differently that made them more successful. The answer given was “persistence.”

Don’t give up! This week I read Martine Fournier Watson’s article, “How to Find a Literary Agent in 109 Easy Steps” and I highly recommend you read it as well. In the article she shared, “Here are my statistics: I spent more than 18 months querying my book, and in that time I sent out 109 queries. I was rejected 108 times.

Some of you will be lucky and will find representation quickly, but for the rest of you, remember to be persistent. Figuring out where to send a query is the first step toward success. If your work is the best you can do, and you have had it thoroughly reviewed by enough beta readers that you feel confident the story is flawless, don’t let the pile of rejections tell you otherwise.

 


 

If you have any tips or want to share your experience, please feel free to comment. I’d love to hear about your own experience. No writer is or has to be truly alone.

 

Until next week… Happy writing!


 

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Querying an agent: May the waiting game begin

The path to traditional publishing is a slow burning fire. In the U.S. and maybe elsewhere, (I imagine each country has its own rules), if you decide to take the traditional path, you first need to query an agent. Once you’re offered representation, the agent will then sell your book to a publishing house, and that’s how you get a book deal. You have to decide whether you want to go through all that or just self-publish. That is your choice, but if you do choose the conventional path, querying becomes a required (and dreadful) step.

Continue reading Querying an agent: May the waiting game begin

MailChimp announced a big change. Learn how it will affect you.

MailChimp users, have you looked at your emails yet? All users should have received an email yesterday providing information on the upcoming changes. October 31st will be the effective date, and that means that you have a choice to make by then.

 

For those who aren’t familiar, MailChimp is an email service provider like AWeber or MailerLite. It helps you build your email list, and as a writer/author, you definitely should have one. If you haven’t started building your email list, now would be the time to start and not when your book is ready, but this is a different conversation about your Author Platform.

Continue reading MailChimp announced a big change. Learn how it will affect you.

Is NaNoWriMo right for you? #AuthorToolboxBlogHop

When it comes to NaNoWriMo, I’ve heard a lot of mixed opinions over the past few months, and quite frankly, they were all solid reasons. This web-based event isn’t for everyone, and if it is for you this year, it doesn’t mean it will be next year and vice versa.

 

Whether you participate in NaNoWriMo or not, there is certainly value in doing so. But in the end, it’s all about who you are, what’s in you, and whether it’s the right time or not. Let me explain this.

 

Continue reading Is NaNoWriMo right for you? #AuthorToolboxBlogHop

5 Top Features for Editing with Scrivener #AuthorToolboxBlogHop

Scrivener is a writing software that has transformed my life. I know many people still use Word or other writing software, and that’s great, as long as it works for them. We should all use what works for us.  I already discussed why this software is a great tool for writing. But, if you’re unsure whether or not this is for you, let me present you five features that will make editing with Scrivener immensely better.

 

A little disclaimer: I’m NOT an expert, and probably use only half of the features available in the software. But what I do use changed my productivity for the better.

 

Here is how:

 

5 best features for Editing with Scrivener

 

Editing with scrivener

 

 

1 – Split screen

 

Split screen is hands down one of the most helpful features. You can select the vertical or horizontal split and even swap the screens to fit your need.

 

Have you ever created a character and 10 chapters later, you don’t remember exactly his/her eye color or hair color? Well, when you edit and double check the details, a split screen is a lifesaving feature. What if you add something on a character or a place? The split screen allows you to update your character/place sheet without leaving your current page. It edits both pages as you go.

 

How to do this?

 

On the top right end corner, you’ll see a square split in two. This will activate the horizontal split screen.

 

editing with scrivener

 

To have a vertical split, go to View > Layout > Split Vertical (Horizontal if you want to go back to that view after)

 

editing with scrivener

 

 

I tried to create a quick example above to show you how it would look like. The split screen allows to go back to your research, character, places sheets at any time and make the appropriate changes to your work in progress.

 

One of the advantages of using these sheets is that you have them with you all the time and can easily transfer them to your next project if you write a sequel.

 

 

2 – Color icons

 

There is no right or wrong way of color coding your work. We all have a system, and Scrivener allows you to add labels, flags, plain colors, or even change the icons to fit your needs. From there, you can create your own system and make it work for you.

 

For example, I change the icon when I change POV, so it gives me a visual of how important his or her voice is throughout the book, if it’s too broken up, or it simply reminds me of who the chapter belongs to without opening the document. I use the book icon with each color representing a character.

 

editing with scrivener

 

 

At a scene level (not chapter), flags help me figure out if this is my first draft, if I still need to revise, or whether I revised or not, but still not quite happy with it.

 

You can use these options in a variety of ways that will make your work a little easier. I’m a visual person, and it helps me understand how much work is left at any time.

 

 

3 – Speech

 

** This feature is for Mac users only. 

You write a sentence, read it several times, and everything sounds proper. Then, someone else reads it later (or even you), and you realize instead of “on,” you wrote “of,” or the verb in mind is different from what is written.

 

Does that sound familiar?

 

When it happens, it drives me insane, and that’s when the Speech feature comes in.

editing with scrivener

 

The Speech feature will read your text for you, so it’ll allow you to notice if the flow is broken or when you have a typo or grammar issue. This feature will make editing with Scrivener a whole new experience.

 

Reading your work out loud is an effective way to edit, but having someone else do it is even better. Your voice will be thankful, but more importantly, your mind won’t trick you in reading what you think is there, but isn’t.

 

 

4 – Snapshot

 

The snapshot is a feature that allows you to start over without losing your previous work. Writers have the right to change their mind and try out new ways to approach a scene. Snapshots will allow you to go back to a previous version of your work stored. Thanks to this functionality.

 

Before you make a change, make sure to click on the button shown below. The date and name should appear in the box below under time and title.

editing with scrivener

 

You can rename them and go back to it if needed.

 

Here is a little video from the company who created the software. Please note that it’s an old video and the icon for the snapshot now looks like shown above, but the principle remains the same.

 

 

5 – Text Statistics

 

This feature provides insights on your writing, more specifically on word frequency. I love how the Text Statistics can help determine if you use too much of a word or if your verbs/adjectives are strong enough. Take a look and spice things up.

 

The button may be available on your toolbar, or you can go to Project > Text Statistics.

 

editing with scrivener

 

 

 

Bonus – 6 – Document view

 

This is the first of the three modes.

 

editing with scrivener

 

The Group Mode contains three different view modes – Document, Corkboard, and Outline. The first view allows you to select all or specific chapters (or scenes). You can then edit them without the need to go to another file. Your view will look like a book, and you can edit all the documents from this one view.

 

editing with scrivener

 

 

Each scene is separated by a line, but all three scenes are displayed on the same view. No need to go back and forth. It helps the flow and keeps everything in one place.

 


 

What’s your favorite feature? These features help me edit. There are a few more I enjoy using when I write a first draft, but when it comes to editing, these are perfect. Writing a novel can be a daunting task if you’re using the wrong tools. Writers should only focus on writing and not make the software behave in the way they want.

 

This article is part of the author toolbox blog hop. To continue hopping through other great blogs in the monthly #AuthorToolboxBlogHop or to join, click here.

 


 
Thanks for reading! I’m a YA Fantasy writer who loves books beyond words, and I’d love to hear about you. Connect with me on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

If you enjoyed the post, make sure to hit the “like” button below, leave a comment, and share on Social Media.

Also, enter your email to access my bi-monthly newsletter. Receive an e-Book where I’ll give you simple steps on how to built a Twitter Platform with the right audience for you. I have now 27K followers and it only took me a few months.


 

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I’m a NaNoWriMo Participant. Will you commit to your writing and join me?

NaNoWriMo

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I made a big decision a couple of weeks ago, and I’m super excited about it. I’m going to be a NaNoWriMo participant this year. YAY!

 

 

Who’s with me?

 

Seriously, please let me know if you’re participating. I’ll add you to my writing buddies. I’d love to share that experience with you all.

 

As a first-time participant, I have to say the timing is perfect. I’m still in the process of editing book one, but my beta readers will very soon be involved, and while I write book two, book one will be in good and capable hands.

 

I’ll be attending the Writer’s Digest Novel Writing conference in Pasadena, CA, the last weekend of October. I’m very excited to attend the classes and hone my writing skills, along with my understanding of the industry. These conferences are a wonderful way to improve yourself at whichever stage you are in your writing. So, while I wait for my editor to work on it, I’ll have time to write the first draft of book two – or at least that’s the plan.

 

 

What’s NaNoWriMo?

Why should You consider it?

 

NaNoWriMo stands for National Novel Writing Month. The web-based event starts on November 1st and ends on November 30th. In other words, you have 30 days to write 50,000 words, which is an average of 1,677 words a day.

 

The goal is to either complete the first draft of a novel, a novella, or whatever you’re working on or at least get it to a decent size. You can either write in the comfort of your home or join other participants in a local event/store.

 

What you need to do is to sign up online (it’s free) and prepare for it. You have to abide by the rules to have a chance to be a winner. So, you cannot start early, and throughout November, you’ll have to update your word count to keep you accountable.

 

In the end, you copy paste your book in their tool, and you are considered a winner when their server can validate that you wrote 50,000+ words. Note that no copies will be kept, so there should be no worries of getting your work duplicated somewhere.

 

What’s the reward?

 

Your work, and how proud you can be of such accomplishment. This event helps your writing move forward and keeps you motivated and on track with your goals.

 

 

 

Why would anyone do this?

 

First of all, I would not want to miss an opportunity to join my fellow writers to accomplish something important to me. Writing should be fun in the end. Goals and deadlines help me make sure that my WIP sees the light, and writing the first draft can be daunting.

 

NaNoWriMo is a fantastic opportunity to get the motivation to bring your work forward and commit to your writing. There is something empowering in writing with like-minded people around you pushing themselves. It is an inspiration to keep you on track and accountable.

 

Now, I need to be honest with myself. I won’t write while my family is home over Thanksgiving, so I need to consider this. Technically, I can write 20 full days, and the rest would be a bonus. To succeed, I need to put in 2,500 words a day, and if I want to finish the manuscript, I’ll need to double this a day.

 

Is that realistic?

 

2,500 is realistic – 5,000 is a little more ambitious, but still possible. I can write much more when I know what to write, but this is the first draft. So, I’m bound to stop here and there and wonder if my choices for the plot is right.

 

The key to success will rest on my ability to outline and develop the world well enough in advance to know what I’m supposed to be writing about, a tether that will guide me through the story and to the end of book two.

 

Can I guarantee that I’ll write at least 50,000 words? Yes – with proper preparation. I need to be motivated (and I am), but more importantly, I need to be prepared.

 

 

How will I prepare for it?

 

I already created a new project in Scrivener, which is the writing software that I use. I’m building the world for the next couple of weeks (at least what is not yet developed in book 1), and then, I will outline. I already have an idea of what I want to accomplish in this book, which is always great. In the meantime, I’m getting my hands on any resources I can to make this a successful endeavor.

 

My best ideas usually happen at completely random moments, so I keep a notebook close by in case. Even my notebook is trying to inspire me. It says, “Follow your dreams.”

 

Aye, notebook! That’s exactly what I shall do.

 

If I get to accomplish this part, I should be in good shape to be close to finish or to complete the first draft in November. Now, let’s cross fingers.

 

 

Have you participated in a NaNoWriMo before? What has been your biggest challenge? What would you recommend?

 

 


 
Thanks for reading! I’m a Fantasy writer who loves books beyond words. I’d love to hear about you. Connect with me on Instagram,Twitter, and Facebook.

If you enjoyed the post, make sure to hit the “like” button below, leave a comment, and share on Social Media.

Also, enter your email to access my bi-monthly newsletter and receive an e-Book where I’ll give you simple steps on how to built a Twitter Platform with the right audience for you (I have now 27K followers and it only took me a few months).


 

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The Liebster Award – 11 questions to answer and 11 Blogs nominated

The Liebster Award

 

The Liebster AwardLast Monday, I was nominated by the awesome Courtney at Paperback Beaches for the Liebster Award and would like to thank her. I appreciate it very much, so please make sure to check out her blog!

 

She had 11 questions for me, so I’ll do my best to answer all of them to the best of my ability.

Continue reading The Liebster Award – 11 questions to answer and 11 Blogs nominated

14 “animated” steps to write a book

This week, I spent an impressive amount of hours editing my book. Writing a book can be rough at times, but I love it. What can I say? If you’re a writer, you’ll understand. So, I wanted to do something a little different, something… animated. It’s Friday after all! We should all smile a little.

Interested in writing a book? Already writing one? Follow these 14 (or maybe more) animated steps. You’ll know if this is for you, and if you’ve written a book, this might look familiar.

 

How to write a book in 14 steps.

 

Step 1: Get the right idea for your book.

 

You’ll need to get an idea so good that you’ll feel compelled to write the second it hits you. Be passionate by your topic.

 

via GIPHY

 

Step 2: Do your research

 

Own your topic like a crazy mad person… or not. Just know what you’re talking about. Be credible.

 

via GIPHY

 

Step 3: Outline your novel

 

Outline, but leave some room for imagination

 

via GIPHY

 

Step 4: Write the first draft

 

This is where the fun begins. Don’t stop until you have a complete manuscript. Have fun with it!

 

via GIPHY

 

Step 5 – Celebrate your writing

 

It was hard, but you did it. Be proud of you. Take a moment to celebrate this achievement, because, YES, you did it.

 


via GIPHY

 

Step 6 – Allow a waiting period before editing

 

Let it sit for a while and grab a book. This time will give you the distance you need to edit with focus. Meanwhile, read as much as you can.


via GIPHY

 

Step 7 – Edit your book

 

Beware it might hurt your eyes. You might wonder how you could have even considered this draft as remotely good, and it might depress you. But, you’re not alone. We’ve all been there.

 


via GIPHY

 

You might even freak out, and even want to go there, but don’t!

 


via GIPHY

 

Edit, edit, and edit.

 

Step 8 – Send it to your Beta Readers

 

After several rounds of edits where you carefully look at plot, pacing, characters, structure, writing styles and so on, it’s time for beta readers. Give them specific instructions, so they know what to look for.

Also, your cat may not be able to do the job… I’m just saying. Hopefully, it won’t plot against you.


via GIPHY


via GIPHY
Yes… having people read your book might do that, but it’s ok. It’s an important step.

 

Step 9 – Edit some more

 

Did I say edit? Edit again, read out loud and edit again


via GIPHY

Step 10 – Send your book to a professional editor

But, only when you think you can’t do better.


via GIPHY
 
And I meant by email… or mail. It might be more efficient.
 

Step 11 – Use your waiting time efficiently

 

Fight the urge to eat all the chocolate or bite your nails. Make sure you’re on the right track with your Author Platform, start your promotion, guest post, or start outlining your next book.

 


via GIPHY

 

Step 12 – Edit again and again

 

Several rounds of edits may be needed… ok let’s be honest, it will be needed…


via GIPHY
Get that fire in you burning (but not literally)! Nothing can distract you from finishing this book… well, maybe a few things, but for the sake of it, let’s say nothing can.

 

Step 13- Read proof

 

When you’re absolutely sure it’s ready, have someone else (preferably someone who never read the book) read proof your book. You’ll need a fresh pair of eyes.


via GIPHY
I know what you think by now.

 


via GIPHY

 

Well, yes, it is hard! It takes a lot to become a writer. But, spend the time necessary to make your story a page turner. No rush!

 

Step 14 – Query agents or go with self-publishing

 


via GIPHY

 

It’s up to you at this point, but know that another journey begins here. I certainly hope you have that energy and enthusiasm when you get there because, let’s be honest, you’ll need it.

 

And here is how you write a book in 14 steps!

 

Ok! I know what you’re all thinking…


via GIPHY

I know, right?!? LOL, I can see the editor in you cringe.

 


 

Complete these 14 steps and you’ll be ready for another adventure. Publishing is another lengthly journey, but if it’s worth every sweat and headaches. Whether you go with traditional or self-publishing, bear in mind that the writer in you should take a backseat and let the PR/business entrepreneur/publisher take over.

Have fun!

Writing


 

If you enjoyed the post, make sure to like, comment, and share on Social Media. Also, subscribe to my newsletter to get a Free e-book that will help you grow your Twitter platform, and receive monthly updates and my reading list.

 


 

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When it comes to writing, what you read matters.

I’m sure you all heard how reading is important to become a good writer. This isn’t news! But, what you read is also very important. Reading is, without a doubt, fundamental, but it is only a component in the learning process. The second part is what you read. So truly, what do you read and why? Are you only reading what you like or do you like to challenge yourself?

 

One piece of advice I received – from a former editor who is now an agent – that stuck with me was “[tweet_dis]read extensively in the genre that you represent, but don’t stop there[/tweet_dis].” This advice stayed with me because it’s indeed easier to read books we know we’ll love versus reading the books that will challenge us; the books we’ll learn from.

 

The truth is that what you read truly matters.

 

When you read, have a purpose and keep these 5 points in mind.

 

Reading should always be a pleasure

 

I want to start off by saying that reading should be a pleasure and not torture. If you can’t find pleasure in reading, then you’re doing something wrong.

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You know you’ve read a good book when you turn the last page and feel a little as if you have lost a friend.

–Paul Sweeney

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Reading is engaging in a journey. You may experience different emotions, but boredom shouldn’t be one of them. There are so many genres and different styles out there that you should always be able to find something that interests you whether it’s fiction or non-fiction. Reading is a wonderful experience, a way to travel to new places, to learn something, and/or to live different lives.

read

Again, if reading isn’t fun for you, you should rethink what you’re doing.

 

It’s ok not to finish a book

 

The second thing I would say is that it’s ok not to finish a book. If the book is torture, save yourself. As a rule of thumb, I go through the first 100 pages, and if I’m not hooked by then or I don’t feel like I’m learning something, I stop. Fortunately, it only happened to me a few times. The bright side is that when it happens you usually know why you stop, so you can make sure not to repeat the experience for your readers.

 

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There comes a time when you have to choose between turning the page and closing the book.

–Josh Jameson

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You may also not be in the right set of mind, the book may be about a topic you’re not interested in at the moment, or it may be because the book isn’t the best it could be. But, whatever the reason is, don’t force it if you can’t enjoy it.

 

I gave up books, and a year to two later, I read again and loved it simply because it wasn’t something I felt like reading at that time. I did not give it a proper chance. It won’t happen all the times, but it can very well happen. So, read what you have the heart to read, but always give it a chance. Don’t give up right away.

 

Read extensively in your genre

 

I said this at the beginning – Reading in your genre is important. Why? Well, for various reasons, but at the top of the list, it will:

– Help you know what’s been written before

– Give you ideas for your current work in progress

– Help you understand the structure and pacing

– Help you understand the development of the characters and how their inner and outer journey unfold.

 

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If there is a book that you want to read, but it hasn’t been written yet, you must be the one to write it.

–Toni Morrison

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And, in relation to the point #1 – you also need to have fun while reading. I assume if you write in a particular genre, it’s because you enjoy it. Write a new story, bring your readers where they’ve never been before.

 

I love reading thriller and romance too and there is no problem with that, but reading in the genre you write about will help you develop the right tone and voice for your book.

 

Challenge yourself by regularly reading something out of your usual reading

 

readNow I said “read extensively in your genre,” but it doesn’t mean only reading in your genre. Extensively doesn’t mean exclusively. You can learn a lot by reading in other genres. For example, if you need to build tension or a twist in your plot, reading thriller are very helpful. Reading romance can help you develop a love story.

 

Then, you can also read books in the genre you’re not familiar with. It will always bring you valuable lessons. Don’t only read the easy books or ones you like.

 

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The book you don’t read won’t help.

–Jim Rohn

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Books are here to entertain, but also teach you something. Don’t turn on them.

 

Improve your writing by reading 

 

Finally, as I said in #3, reading will give you the tools to write.

 

[tweet_box design=”default” float=”none”]“If you don’t have time to read, you don’t have the time (or the tools) to write. Simple as that.”

– Stephen King[/tweet_box]

 

Whether it’s about structure, pacing, character development, strengthening your vocabulary, or writing styles, books will always help you go on the right path. It’s easier to understand what you write if you understand what you like to read.

 


 

Reading is an important tool to become a good writer. Do not underestimate the power of reading. Of course, becoming a better writer should also involve a lot more such as writing extensively, learning everything you can about writing, meeting people in the business and finding individuals who will help you hone your craft.

 

Always show that you’re serious about writing because when you are, you’ll always be willing to be uncomfortable and go the extra mile.

 

So, what would you add to that list?

[tweet_dis_img]read[/tweet_dis_img]

Did you enjoy the inspirational quotes? Find more here.

 


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4 reasons why attending writing conferences will help you become a better writer.

Last October, I attended the Writer’s Digest Writing Conference in Los Angeles, CA. It was my very first writing conference, and I was quite nervous. I had just completed the first draft of my novel and saw an opportunity to get better before starting the editing process. I felt that I needed to attend a Writing Conference because I never want to stop improving my writing skills when given a chance.  Like many writers, I’m not exactly comfortable with social gatherings with perfect strangers. So, attending this conference was both exciting and terrifying. Or so I thought it would be.

 

Continue reading 4 reasons why attending writing conferences will help you become a better writer.

8 proven ways to make a writer’s eye twitch

Does anyone dread the moment someone asks you: “So, what do you do for a living?” I recently quit my job, and, even if I’m super excited about it, I’m also very uncomfortable with the question when it comes from a non-writer.

 

All the writers will get what I’m doing, or even why, and I get very excited when I converse with them. However, when it’s a non-writer, most of the time I tend to panic a little inside.

 

http://gph.is/1FyeYDV

 

Ok! Maybe not that bad… and I’m not talking about my friends because most of them know me enough to know I’m not crazy and it was a mature decision (or at least, they are letting me think that).

 

I’m talking about the random people I meet. I consider myself lucky to be surrounded by amazing people, but, here and there, you’ll have this one person that will get on your nerves right away. It’s like “Go directly to prison. Do not pass GO, do not collect the money” kind of situation, and you can’t bail. You have to sit (or stand) there and you’re not sure whether or not you should laugh or be annoyed.

[tweet_dis_img]writer's nerves[/tweet_dis_img]

So here are a few situations I’ve heard/experienced that would annoy any writer:

 

#1 – “Have you finished writing your book already?” when It’s only been a few months since you started…

 

As a rule of thumb and regardless of the time, no one should ask that question. Oh, gosh! I saw a meme this week that translated well the feeling because at the end of the day, you’re writing a book and not a grocery list.

 

It does take time to write a book, and even if you wrote the first draft, the book is far from being completed. It’s a lengthy process that you don’t want to rush because when it is, it’s usually not finished. In this situation, the tone used is really what will make me smile or go nuts.

 

writer's nervesI don’t mind questions like, “how is it coming along?” or something in those lines. Believe me – writers already feel the pressure. Let’s not add to it or be demeaning.

 

Reading a book not fully developed or full of typos is a sure way to kill your credibility as a writer. No one should ever rush, especially when you start. As time goes on, you’ll have deadlines, but you will have to set realistic expectations for quality work (even though I get some time, it’s not your choice).

 

#2 – “So, are you going to be the next bestseller?”

 

First of all, a writer isn’t a psychic, doesn’t have a crystal ball (or at least, I don’t know any), and I’m certain a writer doesn’t have magical abilities. I wish though because that would be really cool, but no, for sure. So, no one would be able to answer accurately.

 

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I think it was meant as a joke, but just turned out to be awkward. So, this is a pointless question.

 

The likelihood of being a best seller remains small because, depending on the list, if you want to be a best-seller, you need to sell between 3,000 to 9,000 books in the first week alone… On average, a book is sold at 3,000 copies in its entire lifespan.

 

Stephanie Meyer’s success with her debut novel, Twilight, isn’t going to happen to all of us. Of course, this is a dream of mine like many writers, but I write first and foremost because I enjoy it and it makes me happy.

 

To be honest, I’ll be happy if I make enough money to do this full time over the long haul. For many of us, success doesn’t mean being rich and famous, but being able to sell enough to make it a full-time job.

 

#3 – “Why is it taking so long to publish?”

 

I have to say that if you’re not in the industry, it’s not necessarily obvious how much it takes to get your book out. Writing a book requires many talents apart from writing, or at least the ability to hire the right people to do it successfully for you.

 

Because, even if you go the self-publishing route, it will take time, but much less than with traditional publishing that has a lot of layers. Just keep in mind, nothing will happen overnight.

slow

#4 – If you ask a writer to read a book/paper, please read proof it first.

 

I guess if not published yet, it won’t bug me too much. But, reading a published book – or “ready” for publication – full of typos and grammar errors drives me to the edge. It does to most people, writers or not.

 

I almost need a bag as I hyperventilate. The typos suddenly appear so much bigger than they eclipse the rest as if they had the power to go ten sizes up as soon as I see them.

 

I mean once or twice in a book won’t kill me, it’s tough to catch everything, but every 2 or 5 pages, it gets on my nerves and ruins the story.

 

It’s like being in a closed room next to someone who has a cold and keeps coughing next to you. Once or twice is tolerable, but more than that and you want to dart outside before you get sick. You can’t even see how beautiful the room is anymore.

 

It’s important that the story is the only thing that you see as a reader, so please take some time to double check everything, or ask someone to do it for you.

 

#5 – “Oh, I have a wonderful idea; you need to write the book for me.”

 

This is very awkward for me. After I say that I’m a writer, I’ve had a few people asking me to write a book for them as they have wonderful ideas.

 

I’m flattered, BUT what you need is a ghostwriter, not a fantasy writer or blogger… I love writing things that pop into my head, not necessarily into a random person’s mind. I wouldn’t be against it if it’s something I feel passionate about, but the likelihood I would do it is rather thin.

 

#6 – “How are you going to survive financially?”

 

This is usually when I wonder if you have a death wish. Lol.

 

First of all, no pun intended, but I have a decent idea of what I got myself into (not really, but I like to think so). Second, who said anything about surviving? I’m not going to survive, but live my life to the fullest.

 

http://gph.is/1HTrgG2

 

Not everyone gets how happy writing makes me feel, and I can’t blame them. Unless you have a passion, it can be tough, but in any way, this feels like a sacrifice or a burden. So, let’s be clear, I LOVE writing.

 

#7 – “So, you’re going to be rich…”

 

This one makes me want to laugh out loud pretty bad. It’s (almost) cute.
Ah, if only being a writer made you rich…

 

There are exceptions obviously, but, if you start writing because you want to make tons of money, I would say you haven’t picked the easiest way.

 

But, hey, you can try. I want to say, live your life with no regrets. With that said, you should also write because you love it and not because you want to be rich and famous.

 

#8 – “That’s great, you have a lot of free time, then!”

 

This one let me perplexed and made my eye twitch a little. Don’t confuse full-time writer with being unemployed with a hobby.

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The principle of writing full-time is to write full-time… and, I do take this very seriously. I don’t like when people try to undermine your professional endeavor. [tweet_dis]Follow your dreams no matter what. That’s what matters in the end.[/tweet_dis]

 

 

 


 

I’m sure I’ll come across more and more of these awkward situations as time passes, but I won’t let them define me. I’m proud and sincerely happy to write. I love having a writing community who gets my challenges. For the most part, I wasn’t that annoyed with the questions (more amused actually). But, it made me realize how very often being a writer is either under-appreciated or misrepresented.

 

It takes a lot of work to get your story out, and only the passionate and hard workers who are committed get to see this happen.

 

No one knows what the future holds, and it may fade with time, but I certainly hope not. Writing is a wonderful way to express yourself in the most creative ways.

 

I feel blessed everyday for finding a passion that makes me wake up each morning excited and happy regardless of the outcome or the challenges.

 


 

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The Insane Decision that Shattered My World

If I were to describe the past few months for me, it would sound like this: “I’m exhausted, I need to write, but don’t have time. I have way too much to do.” At this point, my frustration is one vivid feeling scarring my soul.

 

I guess when I wrote the post about procrastination last week, it was my way to find a solution to get more done with little time. But, let’s not kid ourselves, procrastination is fun, but, without a doubt, it’s also counter-productive. At the end of the day, I wrote the bare minimum, and the rest was added to my frustration list.

 

I don’t know about you, but I get very anxious when I don’t write. I love my job, but writing is vital to me. So when I start having a lot of work requiring overtime, I end up writing less and, ultimately, I get frustrated.

 

So, I did something brutal. Did I mention I was frustrated? lol

 

This week, I did something completely crazy, something I would have never thought possible, as the very rational and pragmatic person that I am. It’s not something I just thought about last week and said: “Oh, well, why not?!” I’ve actually been thinking about this for a while now, but, most importantly, I’ve been planning it for a long time.

 

writing changeSo what did I do?

 

I quit my job.

 

I said it. Am I insane? Absolutely!

 

My brain keeps telling me this is insane, but my heart says I should follow my dreams. After a long and heated conversation with both of them, we finally reached a compromise. I’ll give myself until the end of the year and evaluate how things have progressed to know if I should stop or continue.

 

What does that mean for me?

 

Have discipline!

I need it. I’ve been working from home for the past two years, so I know how to wake up every morning and work all day long without interruption. As far as I’m concerned, nothing will change. Writing is now my full-time job (or will be soon in 2 weeks to be more accurate). No procrastination for me! 6 months will fly by, so no time to waste.

 

Know what you’re getting yourself into.

I’m 200% committed to making this work. Before taking this leap, I researched what I needed, took a few courses, so I knew what I was getting myself into and that this won’t be easy. But, I also know I want this badly! I love writing and fully intend to finish my book in the next few months.

 

Find the courage to take a leap.

writing changeMaking this type of decision must be carefully thought before. The leap is something you must want beyond anything else because you don’t need to write full time to be successful. Many authors wrote best sellers maintaining a day job. Writing full time doesn’t guarantee success, it’ll just increase your chances. You could also have a part time job.

 

They were options, but quitting my job was my choice. I really wanted to do this. I want to grow old and have no regrets, no “what if” pounding in the back of my mind. Life is too short to be wasted.

 

How did I plan?

 

Set up goals

Know what you want to accomplish. I have a plan, goals to achieve to stay on track. I don’t see all that commitment and long hours of writing as a burden, but a way to make my dream come true, a pleasure in other words. With that said, it’s easy to get sidetracked, and the last thing I want is to get to the end of the year thinking I did not accomplish half of what I planned. So, having goals is a good way to keep you focused and accountable.

 

Plan ahead financially

It’s needless to say that I’ve already cut down on my expenses and I try to do the responsible thing when I can. You need some sort of financial stability. I saved money as much as I could. While I’ll be doing this, I would not want my husband to carry the burden of my choice (even if we’re married) and I won’t ask a dime from him. But, I need his support.

 

I’ve always been independent, and it won’t change. I come from a family of entrepreneurs, and I know what it takes to start a venture with nothing and worry it won’t work. I’ve seen my parents doing it at different times growing up. They worked very hard for it, and I will do just that. Starting something new is always a bet, but the goal is to make it as safe as possible. So, have a safety net before making any leap.

 

Have a plan B

Time managementChances are I’m not going to make any money or very little in the next few months, and it’ll take a long time to make things happen. That’s a risk to be considered. The likelihood to make a living is thin, but if you don’t try, you’ll never know. Having a plan B is crucial. I have a stable work history, lots of recommendation, and did everything I could the right way when I quit.

 

Why?
1) Because I do love my company and team.
2) Because I want a chance to have good recommendations or to come back if things don’t work out.
3) Because it’s the right thing to do.

 

Do I have any guarantees? No, I don’t. But I will go back to work if it goes South, with no regrets.

 

Get support from your family

Ease your family into it. One thing I’m certain about is that I would not have done it without the backing of my family. Have a plan, present it to them, and show them you are serious about it and you can do it. If it doesn’t work, have a deadline with a plan B. I have my whole family’s and close friends’ support and that means the world to me. I know deep down, they have concerns, but they are kind enough not to voice them. They are supportive, and right now, this is what I need.

 


 

Quitting my job was a hard decision to make. I’m a rational person despite everything, and I always try to do the right thing without shying away from hard work. I want to make this work. Ok, I won’t lie! I felt nauseous when I quit my job feeling overwhelmed by doubts and fear of being judged. But then, I remembered why I was doing it. I’m writing my heart out and will get that book done.

 

I love writing beyond words, and I am damn serious about it.

 


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Declare War to Procrastination

Procrastination isn’t a bad thing with moderation. I mean you got to enjoy life too, right? Sometimes, you need to postpone a task for half an hour or half a day to have a social life, a family gathering, or simply to treat yourself. You need and deserve a break once in a while. So, unless your deadline falls within that period, I don’t see anything wrong with it.

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Now, when it comes to the detriment of productivity and timely deliverables, that’s when I start grimacing. For me, procrastination is like drinking in a very formal reception. One or two glasses may be okay, depending on how well you can take alcohol. But the more you drink after that, the less you’ll be productive, coherent, and motivated. Nothing good can come out of it. Ultimately, you’ll wake up with a massive headache, and a delay that will bear consequences.

 

If you’re going down that rabbit hole, stop the pattern and get to work. Now, I know what you’re thinking.

 

I want to write, but… (You may fill the blank as you please)

 

First, NO excuses!

 

I’m part of a Facebook Group where one fellow blogger asked what our excuses were not to write, and most answers were interesting:
– I’m too tired
– I have a kid to take care of
– I’m too busy with work
– I have no inspiration (Writer’s block)
– I have too many ideas, and can’t seem to focus
– I’ll do it tomorrow

 

Don’t wait for tomorrow because, for all I know, it may never happen…

Procrastination
It may be a stretch here, but anything can happen…

 

If I were to guess, I would say most of you (myself included) is guilty of using at least one of these excuses, even if most of the time they don’t feel like excuses. I mean you have a life and can’t ignore it. Sometimes, you get sick, and life happens, but all I’m saying is: don’t take advantage of it.

 

At the end of the day, you need to finish writing your book or post. [tweet_dis]You absolutely need to be consistent with your writing to be successful[/tweet_dis], and this will require a lot from you.

 

Second, NO Distractions!

 

So here are a few suggestions:

 

– Use a distraction-free software
Nowadays, you have a variety of writing software you can use that offers distraction-free writing such as Write!, Hemingway Editor, iA Writer, or Ulysses to only name a few. As far as I’m concerned, I prefer using Scrivener. This software has made my life so much easier. I can also personalize the background to have a smoother environment that will help me connect faster with the story.

 

– Turn off that damn wifi!
Do the research you need before so that you won’t need the internet. Yes, you can live without the web for 30 minutes to a few hours. I promise the world won’t collapse (hmm – maybe I shouldn’t promise that… Let’s live dangerously, then!)

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[tweet_dis]Block a time where no traveling or surfing will be allowed except in your imagination.[/tweet_dis] Social Media can wait. You can even schedule your post in advance if needed. Buffer or Hootsuite have great free options.

 

– Protect your time
Plan accordingly so that you won’t be needed for a few hours. Put your phone on Do not Disturb, and you can even invent a secret code for emergencies with your family.

 

Free some time by bribing someone to watch the kids, the cat/dog… or husband.

 

– Do what you need before
Ok – you’re not a two year old, but sometimes, it’s good to remember to take care of these things. We’re human – So think restroom, food, or hydration… I mean, you can even go pick up the mail, or do the dishes if that’s important to you. No judgment here, but be quick! You need to free your mind.

 

– Set up your environment:
procrastinationGet coffee, but don’t bring the pot or you might need to do some squats afterward. Put some music on if that helps. I don’t like music when I write as I find it distracting, but I have friends who can’t write without music or a picture on the wall. We’re all different, so find what works for you. Also, set up your desk by getting rid of possible toys (FYI – a slinky may count).

 

– Don’t forget to get some rest and take some breaks

You’ll be more efficient. It’ll be hard to concentrate if you don’t sleep 8 hours at night (or day for night owls). If you’re tired, you may be able to get more out of a writing session if you can take half an hour nap before.

 

Third, Write, Write, and Write

– Don’t wait for inspiration.
If you start typing, eventually, it’ll show up. Sometimes, you have to use a bit of tough love on yourself. So, get in front of your computer or notepad, and write until what you write makes sense. You have to let the magic operate.

 

[tweet_box design=”default” float=”none”]”Amateurs sit and wait for inspiration, the rest of us just get up and go to work.” –  Stephen King[/tweet_box]

 

– Write in increments for 20 to 30 minutes at a time.
I would recommend using the Pomodoro technique, which is a time-management technique developed by Francesco Cirillo. I didn’t use a timer at first, but I noticed my focus goes down around that time. I take a break (5 to 10 minutes) and start again. After four Pomodoro timers, you take a longer break. Many writers and bloggers use this technique, and it’s very efficient. In a nutshell, you get more done without going crazy.

 

Here is a short video that explains how it works.

– Outline and fill the blanks
Another thing that helps is to outline. I’ve been resistant to it at first, but since I outline, I write so much faster. I know where I’m going either way, but outlining just makes it easier. K.M. Weiland, Jane Friedman, and The Creative Penn are great resources if you want to know more about outlining.

 

Finally, Use an Alternative if you can’t write.

 

If you really can’t focus, then do yourself a favor and do something useful.

 

– Research the topic.
If you have material to work on, then writing will go fast.

– Read a book in your genre.
You might just find the sparks or ideas you’re seeking. I can’t stress enough how important it is to read.

– Take a short nap and start again.
If you’re exhausted, staring at your screen won’t do you any good.

Change your setting
Try something different. Write in a park, in a cafe, or on the beach – Do whatever works to help you write.

– Go for a walk to change your mind.
Stop if you’re getting frustrated. Go for a walk, and clear your thoughts!

 


 

Distractions are a constant reminder of how easy it is not to write. Write regularly and don’t allow procrastination to settle. You need to know when to write and when to take a moment for you. It’s all about balance.

 


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Writing isn’t a walk in the park

When you start writing a book, you quickly realize that writing is only a tip of the iceberg. Writing a book means you are not only a creative writer, but you’re also a business entrepreneur, a PR, a Salesperson, and even a Publisher in some instances.

[tweet_dis_img]becoming a writer[/tweet_dis_img]

As if writing, itself, wasn’t hard enough, there are a few things to know when you start writing a book. For starter, you must learn all the intricacies of the industry. And, even if you’re ready to take on that challenge, you’ll have to keep pushing yourself to go above and beyond. In this situation, it is beneficial to rely on a strong support system, but unfortunately, not everyone will have this shoulder to lean on. This profession can get lonely at times.

 

Have you ever heard someone tell you that writing was a waste of time, that it won’t pay the bills? Did anyone ever say you were foolish and that your writing isn’t good enough, and that no one will ever be interested?

 

Sounds familiar? You’re not alone.

 

At the end of the day, people won’t always be supportive. Criticism is easy, especially for individuals who don’t get it.

 

I mean, how do you explain that you need to write like you need to drink water? How do you make them see that this is important to you? Really, how can you make people see that?

 

As far as I’m concerned, the answer is “You don’t.”

 

And, this is the hard part. Convincing them that you need to write is going to take time and energy. Don’t ruin your efforts and energy; use that time wisely.

 

Write instead.

 

One day, it’ll pay off. Keep doing what you do with passion and stick to it. There are many proponents to writing on a daily basis, and I’m one of them, even if in reality I can’t seem to apply this principle. Ultimately, you need to prepare yourself. Jeff Goins said in a training video that to succeed, we need to be in the right mindset. I had never thought of this before, but he is right.

 

So what does it take to be a writer? What are the attributes needed?

 

[tweet_dis_img]becoming a writer[/tweet_dis_img]

I thought about it and wondered what being a writer teaches you and requires.

 

Bravery

 

To be a writer is to look at fear in the eyes and say I’ll do it. There are so many mental barriers to break. Fear of failing, not being good enough, being criticized, or not being heard. The list is long. I’m not even scratching the surface.

 

Money is also an issue. How will you pay the bills if it doesn’t work? Many stick with their job and progress is so slow that the motivation fades. Some may quit before time and realize that they were not prepared. The modern world seems to be in a hurry, and you need to keep the pace. So, being a writer is to be comfortable stepping out of your comfort zone.

 

Social Skills

becoming a writer

Writers aren’t known for being outgoing individuals. I’m no exception. Of course, there are always a few exceptions. I’ve heard amazing speeches from a few authors at writing conferences, and I command them. I don’t enjoy public speaking or even the simple act of asking for anything. It isn’t in my DNA, but I’m working on it.

 

With that said, this community is full of awesome writers, authors, and bloggers. It’s worth the efforts. You make friends, learn faster, and get a fantastic support.

 

Humility

Learn to accept critiques (good or bad), be open to the possibility you’re doing something wrong, or there is simply a different way of doing it that may be better. Critiques aren’t fun, but it’s a necessary evil to progress.

 

Also, never be afraid to kill your darlings! The story is what matters. Let it be what it should, and don’t keep anything you like that is a disservice to the story.

 

Commitment

Writing is a long-term commitment. You need to feel strongly about what you write, or there is no chance you’ll get to the end. It takes months, even years, to write a book.

 

Imagine if J.K. Rowling did not like Harry Potter, she would be seriously screwed to have to hear all about it 10 years later… That’s just an example, but no matter if you’re selling your book successfully or not, it will take time to write it.

 

Curiosity

becoming a writer

Some stories feel more real than if it had happened in real life, and that’s because of the writers’ ability to create that moment. Depending on what you write, reading specific materials or interviewing people are essential to be true to your story. All the research is solely conducted to bring truths in your writing.

 

I talked about how important reading was to become a good writer. Reading is a wonderful way to learn how to write, get ideas, and find out more about your theme.

A writer is always seeking that idea that will make the story even better.

 

Hard work and Discipline

 

Both goes without saying. Write every day! Write even when you don’t feel like it, and this is hard. I’m not afraid of challenges, and I love writing, but, with a family and a full-time job, I’m always exhausted. Finding motivation, when your body and brain beg for a nap, is rough.

 

With that said, discipline and hard work go together. There is no shortcut.

 

Perfectionism

 

You have to have some of it, but beware of too much as well. Good work will need countless revision, but you need to recognize that your book is ready for publishing. Do not rush and do not procrastinate. There is a delicate balance to reach that practice and reading will provide over time.

 


 

Writing a book is an incredible feeling. Read and write a lot. When you’re passionate about it, the thrill is addictive. Of course, there will be ups and downs, but your ability to overcome the struggle by displaying these attributes will make the experience worth every sweat.

 


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The 5 things I’ve learned by challenging myself with a 3-day cleanse.

Have you ever looked at a mountain so steep you thought it was too difficult to hike? Have you ever stopped in the middle of writing thinking you would never get published? Have you ever been so tired of a situation you wonder what the point is?

 

I have, many times.

 

When I look at my journey, I have my moments of doubts. A lot of them. I sometimes feel ridiculous or wonder why I even bother. I love writing beyond anything. It’s therapeutic at so many levels, but sharing with the world is making me step out of my comfort zone. Whether it’s about you or not, writing is always personal. You’re afraid of what people might think, and maybe you’re just making a fool of yourself.

 

There is always this moment when your stomach knots, and you doubt yourself enough to give up on your dreams. That very moment is what I’ve been working on.

 

So what will it take to make the difference between making an attempt or going the distance?

 

challenge yourselfFor me, it’s hard work, but also the ability to look at your fear in the eyes and make it walk away. But, that’s not something that is easy to do. Experience and knowledge help you build that confidence.

 

So, a few days ago, I decided to take on a new challenge to help get there. Another one, I should say! As if having a full-time job, a family, a book to write, and a blog wasn’t enough… 😉

 

I could have picked anything, but I wanted to do something I had never done before.

 

So here it is.

 

I LOVE eating, so the idea alone of not eating solid food for 3 days terrifies me. So, this is exactly what I decided to do. I won’t lie. I highly doubted I could be a happy camper during these 3 days, but I also knew I needed to do this, for me.

 

My husband had done something similar a few months back, and I decided to do it too. He and I signed up for the 3-day Blueprint cleanse.

 

 

What is a Blueprint cleanse?

 

The cleanse consists of drinking 6 juices in a specific order throughout the day. You purchase them online, and the company ships them to you overnight. There are a few rules to know. You need to prepare your body a few days before to avoid a brutal change by eating mainly veggies and fruits. During the 3-day cleanse, you can only drink water, herbal tea, or green tea. There are a few cheats offered, but let’s not go there. It’s a challenge, right? No gain, no pain.

 

Why am I really doing this?

 

There were a lot of reasons why I wanted to do this. This choice is VERY unlike me. I LOVE food, and I mean it. I’m the kind of person who thinks “Who the heck in his right mind would want to do this?” And, this is exactly why I did this. I wanted to push myself and see how much willpower I had.

 

challenge yourself
Let’s not kid ourselves – That was never me!

 

I grew up always thinking I was weak, that I couldn’t do as much as the others. I spent more time indoor than outdoor, and I get tired easily. Also, I’ve never been consistent with any sports, so I’m trying to make a positive change in my life. My goal is to break the cycle, and I convinced myself I was stronger than I thought.

 

I used to think I would never be able to write a book. My perspective has changed, and I want to prove myself that we can do anything if we put our mind into it.  That’s why I decided to challenge myself by doing something I didn’t think I could do.

 

Also, I’ve been sick almost all January, but that may be because I work from home. I’m less exposed to germs. So, when I encounter one, I can hear it say “Hey there, how is it going?” I know it’s for me.

 

Urghh!

 

Anyway, I decided it was time for me to get healthier and give a boost to my metabolism. I felt it in my bones it was the right thing to do.

 

So here I was contemplating my so-called food for the next 3 days with this voice shouting in my head: YOU CAN DO IT!!!

 

What did I learn?

 

#1 – Food is everywhere

Seriously, you have to stop eating to realize how surrounded we are by food. Everywhere I went, I could either see or smell food. Take your phone or your computer, and look at how many pictures of food your friends have posted. All the commercials are about food. This is ridiculous!

 

I have a kid I needed to feed, so not only I had to either get food or make dinner for him, but I also had to sit next to him while he was eating. Real question for you: Do you know how slow a three-year-old kid eats???? It’s like watching a snail and a turtle complete a lap and do a backflip on its way back, or better, talking to the sloth in Zootopia. Yes, that slow!

 

It was excruciating even though the juices were filling, so I wasn’t that hungry, but still.

 

#2 – I don’t like green juices, but who does?

challenge yourselfMy husband, I guess. For him, this cleanse was a piece of cake. I love smoothies, in general. They’re good for you, but I always prefer the juices made of fruit. I‘ve never really loved green juices, so try to drink 3 of them a day for 3 days, and you’re not that hungry anymore.

 

On day 3, I was in the kitchen with the bottle on the counter in front of me. I stared at that bottle for a while before making myself drink it. A lot went through my mind, but ultimately, my stomach roared, so I had no choice.

 

At some point, I even had a happy moment when I thought I had drunk the whole thing, but then, realized it was my husband’s bottle, and I still had a quarter to go… Have you heard of the emotional elevator? Yep – right there!

 

#3 – Our main barrier is ourselves

Well, we always have a choice, but that’s what I wanted to test – My willpower. So, I did it. I completed the three days without cheating, and I’m very proud of myself. I definitely challenged myself and questioned my sanity a few times, but I DID IT.

challenge yourself

 

And, that was the purpose of this challenge – I wanted to get as many times as possible to this moment when I usually back out. We are our own barriers – Break them!

 

#4 – Your mind is playing you. Be the boss of you!

There are so many things we can do, but think we can’t because our background, our fears and/or society made us believe that we can’t. Well, we can, and it’s a work-in-progress.

 

The main thing this juice taught me is that I’ve had many moments where when I thought about food, I couldn’t spend 10 minutes without being hungry.

 

But, really I wasn’t, it was just the habit of eating. I read a book, watched a movie or had a pleasant conversation with a friend, and an hour goes by. I did not think of food or remember I was hungry.

 

What did that say about me or my mind?

 

[tweet_dis]Take command of your life and tell your brain to shut up while you chase your dreams. You are the boss of you![/tweet_dis]

 

#5 – Push yourself – learn to be ok with being uncomfortable

challenge yourself[tweet_dis]You have a fear of heights, go climbing. You have a fear of being criticized, don’t mind the people. Do what you love even if it’s not easy.[/tweet_dis] I’m still pushing my barriers, and I hate the feeling of being uncomfortable. I’ve grown from that experience. Challenging myself is something I will continue to do, so I don’t fail myself by not pushing when necessary.

 

If I were not willing to do this, I would be a hypocrite to keep saying “push yourself.” I’m trying to embrace it until feeling out of my wheelhouse feels actually ok. I don’t know if I’ll succeed, but I will certainly try.

 

 


 

Writing a book is difficult because not only you have to write a great story, but you need to be committed. It takes a long time and a lot of efforts. There are so many barriers, so I keep pushing all the time.

 

I’m testing my limits and pushing myself to see how far I can go or how soon my brain will start acting up. Lots of great things happen when our mindset is wired to work for it and win. I want to be able to look at anything, without fear going in the way. I can do it; you can do it.

 

So, what will be your challenge?

 

 

challenge yourself
That may be one way…lol

 


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7 Reasons Why Reading is Important to Become a Good Writer

 

[tweet_box design=”default” float=”none”]”If you don’t have the time to read, you don’t have the time or the tools to write.” Stephen King[/tweet_box]

 

I love this quote because it sums it up. You want to be a writer, publish a book, find your voice, or even improve your writing skills. Well, having a great idea is wonderful, a great start even.

 

But how will you write, not just a story, but a compelling story, a page turner?

Continue reading 7 Reasons Why Reading is Important to Become a Good Writer

7 practical tips that will free you time to focus on what matters

Juggling a full-time job, family activities, and daily chores while writing a book can be challenging. So time management becomes an absolute necessity to increase productivity. The key is to find the organization that suits your life.

 

As a writer, I needed to find a way to be effective meaning being able to produce quality work, but also quantity in short amounts of time. As a mother and wife, I needed to make myself available to my family, so they didn’t suffer from me disappearing behind my computer whenever they were home. Let me tell you; it took a few trials and errors before I found something that worked for me. It may not be perfect, but I see this as a work in progress.

 

Continue reading 7 practical tips that will free you time to focus on what matters

Interview – Caleb James tells us about Drunken Pen Writing

Drunken Pen WritingDrunken Pen Writing is a nonprofit collective created to share unknown writers and artist’s work with the world. DPW gives them a platform in which they can showcase original content in the form of essays, short stories, and reviews. Caleb James is the creator and Editor in Chief and he agreed to tell us more about Drunken Pen Writing and more.

 

 

 

 

 

Continue reading Interview – Caleb James tells us about Drunken Pen Writing

11 things to consider before you publish your first book

publishingLast week, I talked about how to start writing a book, but writing it is only the tip of the iceberg. If you thought you worked hard writing the first draft I have some bad news for you. You’re, unfortunately, not done yet and I’m afraid you’ll need a lot more work to cross the finish line. While you’re taking some time/distance from your work before editing, it’s always good to think about where you want to go. Before you publish a book there are things you need to know/keep in mind, and these questions may also help you shape your book.

 

 

Continue reading 11 things to consider before you publish your first book

How to start writing a book in 8 steps.


[tweet_dis_img]Writing a book[/tweet_dis_img]When I first started writing, I had no clue what I was doing – I mean really NO clue! I had this great idea powered by great enthusiasm, but no real education on the matter. I threw myself in this writing endeavor to quickly realize I had to stop and correct my approach. I don’t regret anything because I learned a lot from these mistakes, but I also know I will take a very different approach for my next book. With that, I want share with you what I should have done, in hopes it will benefit you and save you lots of time and potentially some major headaches.
So, let me share with you 8 simple steps on how to start writing a book.

 

Here are the 8 tips:

Continue reading How to start writing a book in 8 steps.

Guest Post: Finding your voice – By Terry Price

Guest Post - Finding your voice

Terry Price, is a Tennessee based writer and photographer, with an MFA in writing from Spalding University in Louisville. He is a former Program Director and current mentor in MTSU Write (formerly The Writer’s Loft) creative writing program at Middle Tennessee State University. (www.mtsu.edu/write). He works with creatives one on one and leads workshops and retreats. He is also a labyrinth facilitator and leads workshop on using the labyrinth as both a spiritual and creative tool. His work has appeared in Writer’s Notes magazine, Bloodlotus, The Trunk, The Tennessee Writer, New Southerner and The Best of New Southerner and 2nd & Church. He has had two pieces nominated for the Pushcart Prize. You can find more of his work at www.terryprice.net and today, Terry shares his experience as a writer and creative coach to discuss how to find your voice as a writer.

I’ve worked with writers for many years now. I’ve coached and mentored beginning writers and reviewed manuscripts for those with experience. There are thousands of pieces of advice one can give the writer and almost as many books about writing on the market and more being published each day.

Continue reading Guest Post: Finding your voice – By Terry Price

Find out how to prepare for a Writing Conference.

Writing Conference

At the end of the month, I’ll be attending the Writer’s Digest Writing Conference in Los Angeles, CA. I’ve never been to a Writing Conference before and the idea of being in a room full of writers, editors and agents is intimidating to say the least. Attending such event is an incredible opportunity to grow as a writer, educate yourself on the publishing industry, and network to get your book in front of the right people. Ultimately, everyone wants to make this experience enjoyable and profitable.

So, how can we prepare to make this experience the best it can be? I found quite a few interesting articles, videos and comments among other things that can be applicable to any Writing Conference.

Here is a summary of the best advice I found:

 

Continue reading Find out how to prepare for a Writing Conference.

How to set yourself up for success – Scrivener

A photo by Rayi Christian Wicaksono. unsplash.com/photos/6PF6DaiWz48

When I first started to write, Word was the obvious choice. I relied on my years of experience with the product and decided it would be this faithful companion through this writing endeavor. It served me well up until half way through the book. I noticed some holes in the plot and needed to rewrite a few scenes. Saving the original Word version seemed easy enough – just in case I change my mind later on.

 

I was wrong!

 

A couple of months later, I found myself with a myriad of documents and editing quickly became particularly cumbersome. So I needed a plan B, or I was heading straight to headache and frustration land.

 

Being active on Twitter, I searched for mentions of a few writing softwares, but truly only one stood out – Scrivener. The universe sent me a sign (or I like to think so) when a day later, K. M. Weiland tweeted she and Joseph Michael were giving a free webinar on Scrivener a couple of days later. I was so excited I almost fell out of my chair and registered instantly. Let’s say this webinar from Joseph Michael – or the Scrivener’s whisperer as I secretly call him – was exactly what I needed.

 


Continue reading How to set yourself up for success – Scrivener