The Indispensable Daily Routine for Becoming a Good Writer
Every aspiring writer has encountered the advice, ‘keep writing,’ whether from a caring teacher, a fellow writer, or an online forum. At its core, this advice is both simplistic and profound. In this article, we will explore the significance of a daily writing routine and how it contributes to developing a successful writing career, drawing from the experiences of seasoned writers and educators.
The Importance of Discipline and Persistence
Discipline is one of the cornerstones of any successful writing career. Just as athletes train daily to build their endurance and skill, writers must discipline themselves to engage in regular, focused writing sessions. My own journey as an adolescent and a much later 52 years old emphasizes the importance of this practice. Some of my writing has been adored, while some has been met with criticism. Yet, it is the repeated act of writing, coupled with the feedback and pressure from writing classes, that has honed my skills and built my resilience.
The Value of Writing Under Pressure
College provided me with invaluable lessons in regular and feedback-driven writing. It was not always comfortable, as there were days when I was sharing my worst work and receiving constructive (and sometimes harsh) criticism. However, the discipline and pressure faced in such environments contributed significantly to the development of my writing skills. Pushing through discomfort and staying committed to the craft has been essential to my success as a writer.
The Power of Resilience and Learning to “Fail Up”
Developing resilience is crucial for overcoming rejections and criticism. Stephen King, a legendary author, exemplifies this through his legendary practice of sticking rejection letters on a large nail. He accumulated a substantial collection before achieving success, demonstrating the power of persistence through adversity. Embracing feedback and using it to improve is part of the process. It’s vital to learn to take criticism, bounce back, and become a better writer with each attempt. This ability to ‘fail up’ is an important attribute for any writer to cultivate.
Seeking Guidance from Teachers and Mentors
Having a teacher or mentor who believes in your potential can be transformative. It’s always worth asking your advisor for feedback or advice on specific areas of your writing that can be improved. They know your work well and can provide insights that might not be immediately apparent to you. Once, I asked my writing teacher a question, and she provided me with invaluable suggestions and encouragement, which I have continued to seek until this day.
Returning to the Essence of Writing
It’s easy to get caught up in the exterior measures of success, such as publication or financial rewards, but these can be distractions. To maintain a sustainable and fulfilling writing career, it is essential to connect with the core passion for writing. As a writer, you wear multiple hats—the editor, the marketer, and the creator—but each must be approached in its own time and context. When you notice yourself shifting into editing or marketing modes before completing the creative part of the process, you can work on returning to the pure joy of crafting words.
Embrace the Gift of Writing Resources
To enhance your writing skills, consider exploring valuable resources such as Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott and On Writing by Stephen King. Both offer invaluable insights and practical advice for aspiring writers. These books can provide you with a roadmap to craft better and more innovative writing.
Wishing you the best as you embark on your writing journey!