Embarking on a writing journey can be both exciting and daunting. Here are the essential steps I used to get started:
Understanding My Motivation for Writing
It’s crucial for me to identify why I want to write. Am I driven by a passion for storytelling, a desire to share knowledge, or the hope of building a career? Understanding my motivation helps sustain my commitment, especially during challenging times. Reflecting on what inspires me and how writing aligns with my personal and professional goals is a vital first step.
Setting Realistic Writing Goals
Establishing clear, achievable goals is vital. I start with small, manageable targets, such as writing 250 words a day. ChatGPT has made scheduling my writing easier by creating SMART goals, a timeline, and a year, month, week, and day breakdown of goals that can be modified as needed as I work through my writing process. This approach makes it easier to maintain consistency without feeling overwhelmed. Celebrating my progress with two gluten-free Oreos helps keep me motivated and adds a fun reward to my routine. As I become more comfortable with my writing routine, I gradually increase my goals to keep challenging myself.
Choosing My Writing Niche or Genre
Exploring different genres and niches to find what resonates with me is essential. I have a strong interest in two very different genres: Fantasy and Historical Fiction. Fantasy allows me to create entirely new worlds with limitless possibilities. On the other hand, I’m pondering writing a historical fiction novel(s) about my grandmother and my mother’s life, which offers a way to explore and preserve my family’s legacy while delving into rich, historical contexts. Understanding where my interests lie helps me focus my efforts and develop my unique voice. I shouldn’t be afraid to experiment until I find my preferred style.
Creating a Dedicated Writing Space
Having a specific place for writing can significantly enhance my productivity. I choose a quiet, comfortable space free from distractions. Personalizing it with my character notebook, plot notebook, Venti Iced 7-pump Chai Latte with Soy Milk, Two Pumps of Cinnamon Dolce Syrup, Light Ice, and Mad Moo helps create an environment where I feel focused and motivated.
Establishing a Writing Schedule
Consistency is key to developing a writing habit. I determine the best time of day for my writing sessions, whether it’s early morning, during lunch breaks, or late at night. Sticking to my schedule as much as possible helps build a routine. This regular practice makes writing a natural part of my daily life. Plus, it’s always amusing to read my late-night writing the next day and realize it sounds like I’m three gin martinis in before I started to write.
Conclusion
Starting my writing journey involves understanding my motivations, setting realistic goals, choosing the right niche, creating a conducive writing environment, and establishing a consistent schedule. It won’t be easy, and I will make mistakes as I begin writing. However, each challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow. By persevering through the difficult times, I’ll lay a strong foundation for my writing career and be well on my way to achieving my writing dreams.
A Crow’s Musings: Thoughts from the Perch. 