Sometimes people just want some straightforward advice about getting some writing on the page. People also seem to like lists. This great quote from Brian Clark combines both of those things and I think he does it in a very good way. The next time someone asks you for advice on writing, simply point to this list:
“10 Steps to Becoming a Better Writer
Write.
Write more.
Write even more.
Write even more than that.
Write when you don’t want to.
Write when you do.
Write when you have something to say.
Write when you don’t.
Write every day.
Keep writing.” ― Brian Clark
Having just finished National Novel Writing Month this past Saturday, and having passed the 50,000 word mark a day early, I cannot condone this advice enough. Just write! If you’re sitting around waiting for something, stop waiting and write! The only way you’ll ever have a finished product or something to edit is to first write it down. It doesn’t have to be perfect, and it doesn’t have to be good. Just get the words down and then you can go from there. Give yourself some kind of incentive, reward, or punishment to keep yourself on track. Make realistic goals and create deadlines for yourself. Whatever it takes, just sit down and write that thing you’ve been wanting to write.
– Jet Fuel Blog Editor, Mary Egan
