Writing Rules to Embrace

Do writers really need rules?

Sometimes, we do. It keeps us focused.

If you're a writer or want to be a writer, try these on for size.

(1) You must write—not just talk about it, not just think about it, not just dream about it.

(2) You must write consistently—not just when The Muse inspires you, not when your house is clean, not when everything in Life is perfect because it will never be the perfect time to write.

(3) You must strive to improve—practice indeed makes perfect, or at least better.

(4) You must put your work out in the marketplace—nothing ventured, nothing gained.

(5) You must persist when rejected—because you will be rejected. Everyone is rejected at some point by either agents, editors, or readers.

(6) You must believe in yourself even when no one else does—especially when no one else does.

(7) You must remember why you began writing in the first place—because you love putting words together.

(8) You must accept that luck is a part of this business and that you may never get that lucky break—but you can succeed anyway.

(9) You must remember why you write—not for money or fame but because you love putting words together to tell stories.

Takeaway Truth

Writing is what you do and characterizes who you are. Writing in and of itself is the reward. Write hard. Live free.