Golden Rules for Writers

If you want to develop your writing to its fullest potential it is imperative that you remember the following:

- Writers write! Sounds simple but it’s important. To develop as an accomplished writer you need to write regularly.

- There is no such excuse as “I don’t have enough time to write.” Of course you do, even if it’s just for two hours on the weekend. Be selfish with your time sometimes if necessary.

- Regularly enter your work in competitions and always be assertive in seeking publishing opportunities.

- Creating great writing can be hard work. Don’t be put off by this. Rarely does genius come in one short, inspired burst.

- Good writers read. You won’t develop much as a writer if you don’t have regular reading habits. Read a wide variety of texts and authors.

- Good writers are great observers. Ideas are everywhere. How many can you see right now?

- Carry a notebook or electronic device to record ideas immediately as they come to you, as they will often appear in the most unlikely of places.

- When writing have a dictionary and thesaurus on hand, the real thing is much better than those on most word processing programs.

- Don’t be afraid of criticism and rejection. Use criticism positively, and remember that J.K. Rowling’s ‘Harry Potter’ was rejected by many, many times.

- Create your own writing environment. Figure out what works best for you in terms of location, time of day, music, lighting, etc.

- Always enjoy your writing. Take a break and clear your mind if it gets too cluttered.

- More often than not, the simplest way to express something is the best.

- When you are on a creative roll, keep it going. Don’t pause and worry about syntax, let the creative beast run free. Corrections can be made later.

- Don’t just make it your goal to produce good writing. Make it your goal to become a great writer.