So You Think You Can Write

Photo by Sarah Pflug.

Hi family. So you think you can write. Then write. People often say they want to write or have a story burning inside and want to tell it. My response is always the same, "then write it." There is no secret formula or a perfect time to start writing. The process is individual, of course, but if you want to write, the best thing to do is, well, to just get started. Journal, take notes, write down funny or entertaining stories, so you remember them. Write as much as you can and as often as you can. Once you get used to putting your thoughts down, start thinking about presenting your ideas: poetry, short stories, song lyrics, fiction, non-fiction. There are many ways to express the written word, and it is up to you to find the formula that works for you. Still hesitant about getting started? Try the following steps: 1. What is your inspiration for writing? What makes you want to go down this journey of exploration in the first place? Once you figure that out, you can start going down the path that best suits you. 2. How do you write? Are you the type that can sit down and bang out a story? Does it take you a while to compile your thoughts and get them on paper? Begin developing a timeline for yourself. How long will it take you to complete this process? 3. Who are you? What are you trying to present to your audience? Are you the authority on something? Do you want to learn and grow along with your audience? Are you funny? Decide what characteristics you want to bring forth in your writing style. As you work your way through these things, continue to write. Writing every day helps you develop as a writer and determine what you like and dislike about the process. It won't happen overnight, but it won't happen at all if you don't get started. So, what's the holdup?

Write on,

Tamika