10 Tips to Help You Become the Writer You Wish to Be

 by Suzanne Lieurance



No matter what kind of writer you wish to become, follow these tips and you'll reach your goal(s) much quicker.


Tip #1. With whatever type of writing you want to do, level up your knowledge and skills so you reach your goal faster.

For example, if you want to write a novel, be sure you understand the structure of novels and all the components needed for a marketable novel.

Tip #2. It’s easier to stay motivated when you have a clear picture of where you want to be at the end of the process.

Tip #3. It’s okay to have gigantic goals.
As long as you break those goals into small, achievable steps, they are reachable.
Tip #4. It’s okay to slow down your progress as long as you never stop.
Remember, with writing, slow and steady wins the race.
Tip #5. Learn to ignore naysayers.
Once you stop listening to them, your opportunities for growth will skyrocket.
Tip #6. When your work is critiqued (either by your editor, your agent, or your critique group) listen with the intent to understand, not with the intent to reply.
Tip #7. Practice being be bold and confident as a writer.
The more deeply you feel it, the more you will become it.
Tip #8. Recognize your writing weaknesses and your writing strengths.
Make the most of your strengths and work to improve your weaknesses. 
Tip #9. Sometimes the best writing opportunities are just outside your comfort zone.
Don’t be afraid to take a chance and write something that seems a bit of a stretch for you.
Tip #10. Celebrate your small successes along the way to your ultimate goal.
You'll stay more motivated to keep moving towards your long-term writing goals this way.
Okay, so start with just one of these tips today and start moving closer to becoming the writer you wish to be.
Try it!


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Suzanne Lieurance is the author of over 40 published books, a freelance writer, and a writing coach at writebythesea.com.



 




4 comments:

Karen Cioffi said...

Suzanne, thanks for these tip on helping writers reach their goals of building their writing skills. Number 7 is sometimes a tough one; I think at one time or another we've all felt less bold and confident as a writer. But I like how you say to practice at it.

Terry Whalin said...

Suzanne,

What a wonderful series of tips. In particular I like number 9 to stretch as a writer into new opportunities. Often this one is expressed, "When you get a new opportunity, say yes and figure it out along the way--even if you've never done it." Taking this stance can get you in trouble sometimes but often I grow as a writer from these experiences.

Terry

Carolyn Howard-Johnson said...

Gigantic goals, huh! Done. Thanks to @terrywhalin, too, for tipping me off to this one! Pun intended.
Best, Carolyn

deborah lyn said...

I Love these tips Suzanne, every one of them! Thank you
"It’s easier to stay motivated when you have a clear picture of where you want to be at the end of the process." Really so!
I also found that with a clear goal, I'd listen but not be deterred or prevented from writing the book for caregivers, it was that important.

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