It’s a Writing Revolution!
What do you think of when you hear the word revolution? A country in turmoil? An uprising? Today I’d like to encourage you to shift your thoughts a bit and consider the fact that writers, especially those seeking publication, often need to revolutionize their writing.
www.dictionary.com defines revolution as: a sudden, complete or marked change in something. Think about that for a moment as it pertains to your writing. Are you looking for a sudden change? A marked change? A complete change? Perhaps you’ve been hoping to cross an invisible line in the sand so that your writing can move to the next level. How will you get from Point A to Point B? You can’t mosey your way along. It’s time for a revolution. It’s time for a marked change.
This week, make up your mind to change something specific about your writing. Here are a few things you might consider:
1). Change how you view your writing. If you’ve viewed it as a hobby, begin to think of it as a means to reach out to others and a way to earn some extra money. If you’re serious about this, you will develop the necessary drive to shift from hobbyist to published author.
2). Change your perspective about publication. Maybe you’re convinced you can never be published because you’ve faced too many rejections or you don’t have a college degree. Untrue! A rejection today is often a stepping-stone to publication tomorrow, and you can keep on growing in the craft, whether you’re holding a college degree in your hand or not.
3). Change how you learn. Maybe you’ve been intent on teaching yourself or relying on the novels or non-fiction books you’re currently reading to give you the know-how. You can only learn so much this way. If you want to earn money as a writer, it’s time to think like a pro. Go to a conference. Consider taking an online course, which will give you the tools you need to get started as a pro.
4). Change some of your sloppy habits. Give yourself deadlines and stick with them. Don’t say you’re going to write an article unless you mean it. Don’t start a book that you never intend to finish. See it through. Organize your workspace. Settle on an appropriate time/place to write. . .then go for it. No excuses!
5). Change gears. Shift from Neutral to Drive. Once you’ve written and critiqued your book or article, submit it. Don’t just hide it away on your computer where no one will ever see it. Send it to an editor for his/her opinion.
Change. It’s a tough word for those who are settled in their ways. Tougher still for those who think their writing is beyond reproach. But it’s a necessary word for writers hoping to cross the line in the sand with their stories, articles, books and devotions.
Writers, it’s time for a revolution!
