From Finding My Passion to My Upcoming Debut
I discovered my publishing service in 2019 but didn't start writing my book until 2023. Major life events pushed me to finally put pen to paper, and now, I’m on the brink of being published, with two more books and a memoir in the pipeline. As an author who also blogs, I've wrestled with defining my blog’s purpose and focus. (Waves at all of you who indulge me.)
Key Takeaway for Writing Motivation: Be Kind to Yourself
There are days when simply opening my laptop feels impossible and days when everything flows seamlessly. The creative process can't be rushed, and someone else’s progress is not a reflection of your own.
Tips for Aspiring Writers
Capture Creative Ideas Anytime, Anywhere
Creative ideas often appear in the most unexpected places. I use Google Keep to jot them down on my phone, PC, or any device where I can access my Google account.
Be prepared for spontaneous inspiration, even if it means bumping into obstacles while capturing notes on your phone. 😁
Stay Inspired by Following Other Creatives
Follow creatives you admire and those who offer practical advice through emails, social media, and tutorials.
Staying connected to inspirational sources can keep your creativity flowing.
Dedicate Time and Space for Your Craft
Commit to your writing time like you would to a gym session. Even 20 minutes a day can make a difference.
Hold yourself accountable and ensure others respect your writing time. If most of those minutes are spent worrying or distracted, treasure the few productive ones.
Consistent small efforts can lead to significant progress over time.
Celebrate Your Progress
Pat yourself on the back for any progress, no matter how slow. You’re ahead of everyone who hasn’t started yet.
Follow Your Creative Pulls
Write what excites you, whether it’s a memoir, fiction, or another genre. There are no strict rules on when and how you create.
The creative processes of successful writers are often surprising and varied.
Write Freely Without Self-Criticism
Allow your ideas to flow without immediate editing. There’s a great 7-minute exercise where you write as fast as you can for 7 minutes unfiltered and unedited, letting your thoughts pour out despite spelling or grammar mistakes.
The goal is to maintain a continuous flow of creativity.
Embrace Half-Baked Ideas
Don’t fear silly or incomplete ideas. My deleted folder is full of them, but wonderful concepts have emerged from revisiting and rethinking those initial drafts.
Blogging for Your Audience
Focus on What Readers Want
Blogging isn’t about you; it’s about what your readers want and the topics they search for.
Research similar subject matter experts (SMEs) in your field and Google trending topics to see what information people are seeking.
Personal Growth as a Writer
Grieve and Move Forward
Acknowledge and honor past experiences, especially during transformative life seasons.
Take the time to grieve what’s over and work through significant changes. This process can clear the way for new creative endeavors.
Believe in Your Talent and Skills
Understand that skills are learned, but talent is your innate ability. Talent is raw and unrefined, while skill hones it over time.
Have faith in your unique combination of talent and acquired skills.
Connect with Fellow Creatives
Remember, you’re not alone. While I tend to isolate and dread socializing, I always gain valuable insights that fuel my writing motivation when I share my thoughts with fellow creatives.
By keeping these tips in mind and focusing on your audience’s needs, you can thrive as a new author and build a successful blog that resonates with readers. Happy writing!
Love this post? Please share it! Follow for more insights and stay tuned for the next installment where I talk about the tools that help me write and create.
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