I have worked in book publishing in the UK and Ireland for more years than I care to remember! Over those years I've worked with writers who were just starting out and those who were and are multi-million-selling global names. What I've learned is that most writers - regardless of reputation - face similar challenges in their writing lives. So here are a few tips from my experience that I hope will help you when you too sit down to write.
Write the book you want to write
Write the kind of book you've always wanted to read not one you think there's a gap for in the market.
Enjoy it while you can
Writing when you are not under any pressure and can really enjoy it is a special thing, even though you might not think that at the time. Try to enjoy this unpressured time. Once you get published, you'll never have it again!
Sit down, start writing and let it happen
Writing is nothing more than sitting on a seat in front of a laptop or computer, or a pen and pad and writing, putting word after word on the page until something emerges.
Make the time
Make regular time for your writing. This is essential, although it need not be hours and hours every single day.
Don’t spread the word until it’s done
Don't talk to others about your great novel too much. Talking will not get the words onto the page.
Start and mean to go on
The hardest thing about writing is getting started. Just write anything and keep writing, and before you know it, you'll have tuned into your writing brain and off you'll go.
The best things take time
Writing is a lengthy process, even in our speedy world today. Much of writing is hard slog, I'm afraid and when it's really right, you'll know.
You don’t have to work alone
For some writers, support from others is essential. But choose carefully: some writer's groups are simply a social outlet; others are altogether more serious and focused and can be a real source of support.
Write the book you want to write
Write the kind of book you've always wanted to read not one you think there's a gap for in the market.
Enjoy it while you can
Writing when you are not under any pressure and can really enjoy it is a special thing, even though you might not think that at the time. Try to enjoy this unpressured time. Once you get published, you'll never have it again!
Sit down, start writing and let it happen
Writing is nothing more than sitting on a seat in front of a laptop or computer, or a pen and pad and writing, putting word after word on the page until something emerges.
Make the time
Make regular time for your writing. This is essential, although it need not be hours and hours every single day.
Don’t spread the word until it’s done
Don't talk to others about your great novel too much. Talking will not get the words onto the page.
Start and mean to go on
The hardest thing about writing is getting started. Just write anything and keep writing, and before you know it, you'll have tuned into your writing brain and off you'll go.
The best things take time
Writing is a lengthy process, even in our speedy world today. Much of writing is hard slog, I'm afraid and when it's really right, you'll know.
You don’t have to work alone
For some writers, support from others is essential. But choose carefully: some writer's groups are simply a social outlet; others are altogether more serious and focused and can be a real source of support.