1-If you don't enjoy writing, don't write. If writing is a chore you aren't a writer.
2-If you don't feel inspired, your probably can't write anything inspiring. Sometimes if you just begin to write the inspiration will come. Don't be opposed to using writing prompts to prime the creative well.
3-Find your inspiration in everyday life, wild imaginings, history, memories or aspirations. A writer finds inspiration anywhere and everywhere.
4-Life and circumstances will rob you of the time you need for writing. Be determined to find time even if you have to let other things go.
5-Don't just think about writing, put pen to paper, fingers to keyboard and WRITE. Works of literature never materialize with just thoughts, they have to be written down.
6-Don't depend on support from family or friends regarding your craft. Find your satisfaction within yourself for what you write.
7-Don't let anyone, EVER, tell you what you can or cannot write. Be yourself, be original.
8-Work hard on character development and dialogue. Strong characters can carry even a weak plot.
9-Silence your inner censor. The thing you struggle with and think is unacceptable to write may be the thing, the honest thing, you need to write.
10-You may not have experienced everything your characters do but you have experienced the same emotions, build on that.
11-When you write, write for the compulsion, the joy and satisfaction of writing, never for the fame or money.
12-Do your research. Make sure the dialogue and setting are in keeping with the era and location you are writing about.
13-Use to your advantage elements of mystery, surprise and strong emotion.
14-When an inspiration comes to you and you're busy with life, take time to make a note of it to use later when you are writing.
25-If an outline and character profiles help you accomplish your best work then use them but if you can write in flow until the characters and story take on a life of their own so much the better.
16-Edit, edit, edit and then edit some more. I usually pen an entire chapter then go back and edit. I edit the entire work several times. I find that sometimes after three edits I still find mistakes. Try to correct them all but most important don't let perfectionism and excess editing ruin the creativity and flow of your work.
17-Read every chance you get. Read a variety of subjects and genres. Being an avid reader makes you a more interesting and prolific writer.
18-If you have the gift of writing be thankful everyday for the enjoyment and inspiration it brings to you and those who read you.
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