This post was originally published at Novelicious.com and is now at WritingTipsOasis.com. WritingTipsOasis.com acquired Novelicious.com in June 2022.
1. Write with a clear head. It does no good to stare blankly at a sheet of paper and beg the words to come. If it isn’t working, step away and try again later. I’m not someone who requires daily word counts of myself or makes myself write for a set amount of time. When I hit a mental block, I put the manuscript away for the day; chances are that by the next day, the ideas will be more clear.
2. Be open to editing. Although it can be a bit nerve wracking – painful even – to have others critique your work, it’s amazing what effect another’s perspective can have on the final manuscript. I grimace every time I delete a chunk of text from a work-in-progress, and yet remind myself how much better the revisions will make the final product.
3. Put yourself in your character’s head. There’s no better way to tell your character’s story than to envision yourself as him or her, and to ask yourself: How would I feel? What would I say?
4. Read, read, read, and talk with other authors – they are the best mentors you will ever find. I’ve been so fortunate to connect with other authors, both in person and online; they’ve offered a tremendous amount of moral support and advice. I was never involved in a writing group, but I wish I had been. Writing can be a solitary profession, and we need to rely on each other for support and encouragement!5. The road to publication is long and bumpy, but enjoy every single minute of it; there are highlights all along the way!
The Good Girl by Mary Kubica is out now.