There will always be days when words come slowly, or not at all. Here’s what we can do to encourage them: 1) Be polite. Ask the muse, don’t just expect her to show up. When she does, thank her. 2) Ask the words. Ask for their permission to use them. If you can, be specific…
Self-proofreading tip #3: Create distance
“It’s not you, it’s me.” That moment in a relationship where one of you has to get away. In this case the one who has to get away is you – from your words. Writing is a relationship between you and your words. And as with any relationship, writing is always a step into the…
A simple but powerful way to make your words sparkle
I was recently struck by this tweet: Japanese believe that when something’s suffered damage and has a history it becomes more beautiful. – Barbara Bloom pic.twitter.com/BZ7OIzRazK — Mateusz M (@themateuszm) 2 July 2016 I always love discovering words for which there is no English equivalent. And not only does this one describe a powerful metaphor for…
Self-proofreading tip #2: Multitasking is out, single-tasking is in
I love this tweet, which I saw the other day and just had to share: Actually, I love editing my own stuff. I find it soothing and rather cathartic…said no writer ever. #editing#writing#writerslife#blerg — Monica Cable (@monicacable) 15 July 2016 Not only will every writer relate to this but although it’s about editing, the same…
17 great strategies to get you writing
When it comes to writing, sometimes it can be so hard to get started. There will always be times when you feel a bit stuck or distracted, when words just won’t come. It can be frustrating, but it’s important to remember that it’s normal and OK. Words have an energy of their own; they might need a…
Self-proofreading tip #1: Write first, proofread later
Write first, proofread later. Sounds obvious, right? It is, but it’s surprising how tempting it is to keep going back to auto-correct even when still on the first draft. It’s a hangover from our school days, perhaps, when we’re taught to be risk averse. Don’t make mistakes, learn the rules, pass the tests, get good…