I’m back in the writing groove
after nearly a year of telling myself, “Tomorrow, I’ll write tomorrow.” Not
that I don’t write every day, I do, but it’s not the creative writing I enjoy.
My recently published book, “Finding
Family,”
came out in August and I’ve done some marketing and a couple of book signings,
but even that has taken a back seat to other demands on my time. I can think of
any number of reasons I haven’t been more devoted to the craft of writing, but
it boils down to life getting in the way as only life can. Considering how happy
writing makes me, I don’t know why it’s such a chore to sit down and focus.
Over the past several years
I’ve had the opportunity to talk to writers of varying levels of success. These
wonderful interactions have taught me a lot about what it means to be a writer
and how each applies to having a happy life.
Write tight. Whether you are writing an advertisement or penning the
Great American Novel, less is more. Good writing is often a matter of making
the most of a few well-chosen words.
Journal
Note:
The same is true in every day encounters. More time spent listening and less
time talking can bring unexpected rewards, and will likely result in stronger
relationships.
Do your homework. (Research). Writers have an obligation to their readers to
be credible. Works of fiction with shaky plots and weak characters turn readers
off. Non-fiction books with incorrect information turn readers off. Period, end
of story.
Journal
Note:
In presenting your thoughts and ideas verbally, whether one-on-one, in small
groups or before an audience of thousands, be trust-worthy. Nothing taints character
and integrity like misinformation or an out-an-out lie.
Write. To be
successful, writers must write. It sounds simple, but making time to write is
difficult if you are not intentional about putting words on paper (or
computer), which is why most authors have a schedule and stick with it come
what may.
Journal
Note:
To be successful at anything, perseverance is required. “Therefore, since we are surrounded by
such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And
let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” (Hebrews 12:1 NIV) Stick with it,
whatever “it” is for you, and you are more likely to achieve your goals.
Be interesting. Create a
compelling story with strong characters, drama, conflict, action and a
satisfying conclusion.
Journal
Note:
In life the interesting people are more engaged, motivated, happier and less
stressed.
Be creative. There are
many ways to write about the same subject. Love. Hate. Death. Life. Fear.
Happiness. Truth. Lies. You name it and it has been written about, and that
will continue. How does your creativity and innovation bring new life to these
concepts? That’s the story you want to tell.
Journal
Note:
How will your personal story take shape as you live each day? Find ways to be
creative, even if it’s as simple as drinking your orange juice out of a wine
glass. No matter what you do, you can bring elements of creativity to the way
you live.
Happiness is… Think about it.
You get to fill in that blank any way you want to. It’s your story. It’s your
life. Be happy.
