by Edie Melson @EdieMelson
There are a lot of things about being a writer that are hard. And there are a lot of ways we make it even harder on ourselves. So today, I’d like to remind you—and me—of ways to be a little bit kinder on ourselves.
1. Instead of putting yourself down, build yourself up.
2. Choose to be optimistic.
3. Pray first.
4. Be patient, writing is a process and takes time.
5. Invest in your dream—financially and otherwise.
6. Find a tribe—don’t try to do this alone.
7. Remember why you write.
8. Be courageous.
9. Choose joy.
10. Remember that failure isn’t always a bad thing.
11. Be flexible.
12. Give others the benefit of the doubt.
13. Eat healthy.
14. Take a chance and hit send.
15. Make time to write a priority.
16. Take a walk—exercise regularly.
17. Don’t beat yourself up when you fall short.
18. Invest in other writers—we all know those who aren’t quite where we are.
19. Give yourself the gift of a reasonable writing schedule.
20. Have a dedicated workspace.
21. When you hit a roadblock, go around it, don’t stop.
22. Encourage other writers.
23. Sometimes, write just for the fun of it.
I’d love for you to add to today’s list. Be sure to leave your thoughts in the comments section below.
Edie Melson is the author of numerous books, as well as a freelance writer and editor. Her blog, The Write Conversation, reaches thousands each month and has been named as one of Writer’s Digest 101 Best Websites for Writers. She’s the Director of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference and the Social Media Mentor at My Book Therapy. She’s also a member of the Advanced Writers and Speakers Board, Social Media Director for Southern Writers Magazine and the Senior Editor for NovelRocket.com. Connect with her on Twitter and Facebook.
The Conversation
One of my things is giving myself permission to be authentic and reach out. Whether I’ve had a great writing day or am in a spiritual slump, it’s okay to call my besties and ask them to celebrate or pray with me. It makes the journey easier, and in those “duh” moments, talking it out reminds me it’s not as bad as I think it is.
Love that, Molly Jo! It is definitely good to surround ourselves with writer friends who can do this writing journey with us. 🙂
A fun, helpful read I enjoyed. I can’t think of anything to add – remembering why I write, encouraging other writers and staying healthy are all things that make what I do meaningful.
Hi Liz!
I think remembering why we write is key in this journey. It’s so easy to get distracted and to find other reasons to write, which results in a shift in our focus. Keeping God’s plan first and foremost is so important.
Thanks for chiming in!
Thanks for the encouragement. I intend to print this list and post it next to my computer. Item number one will be highlighted. How about this for an addition to the list: NEVER EVER assume you are too old or too young to begin. I have enjoyed writing for most of my life, but I dreamed about what could be, more than I did anything about it. I am seventy years old, and have finally decided to get serious about this writing business.