Why do we think that the beginning of the new year is the only time to make resolutions? You can resolve (decide) to do something at any time of the year. So, why not reject convention and make some resolutions right now which you really try to keep – unlike new year resolutions made in the general haze of Christmas and New Year.
So, if you are still hesitating about getting started on that writing project, here are five resolutions which may help to set you on the right path.
Forget your fear of writing and just get on with it
If it’s the fear of getting started that prevents you from tackling your writing project then you are not alone. If you can overcome that fear and just do it, you may be surprised at how quickly you gain confidence. In the words of Stephen King from his book On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft:
“The scariest moment is always just before you start. After that, things can only get better.”
Set aside some time to write regularly
For many of us, finding the time to write can be problem. There are so many things that seem to get in the way what with work, family, household chores, TV, social media etc. etc.. But are these distractions really just a way of avoiding getting started? If you are a new or inexperienced writer you probably have some doubts about your ability and so keeping yourself busy means you don’t have to confront your fears so why not resolve to make writing part of your daily or weekly routine.
Get yourself some personal writing space
If you aren’t able to enjoy the luxury of a separate room or office all to yourself, try carving out a bit of space in the corner of a room or commandeer the wasted space under the stairs or on the landing. If none of this is possible keep all of your writing materials stored in a box, a case, a plastic carrier bag – anything that is easy to pick up and take wherever you can find a space to work (at the kitchen table, in the garden, at your local café, in the library, on a park bench).
It doesn’t really matter where you work – the main thing is to have all your stuff on hand so as you are always ready to start writing whenever you have the opportunity.
Don’t work in isolation
Writing can be a lonely business so look for a writing group where you can share and discuss your work and get support and encouragement from other writers. If you don’t have a writing group near you or you would prefer to engage with other writers from the comfort of your own home or office, then why not join the Beginners guide to writing community by signing up for our forums.
Start small
In other blog posts I have highlighted the advantages of approaching any size or type of writing project by writing in bite-sized pieces. If your goal is to write a full-length book, breaking it down into manageable bite-sized pieces not only means that you are more likely to succeed but you will also have the satisfaction of seeing your story gradually evolve.
You can simply write each bite-sized piece and then bring all the pieces together to create your complete book. However, if you would like a way of publishing and sharing each bite-sized piece as you write them, then why not start your own blog. See Blogging your way to a book and then check out Choosing a blog platform and Setting up a free WordPress blog in five easy steps for some tips on how to set up your own blog.
