Four Ways To Fuel Your Writing Dream

On of the reasons why so many aspiring writers give up on their dreams is because they are afraid of rejection. When you write, you are not only putting your thoughts and imaginations on paper, you are giving the reader a glimpse of your soul. When that is ridiculed or rejected, it can cause you to shelve your writing aspirations in exchange for more "realistic" pursuits. Just as a journey of a thousand miles begins with a one step, a great manuscript, novel or short work of fiction begins with but a word.  Keeping your writing aspirations alive is crucial if you wish to succeed and to succeed as a writer, you must write. 

With unbridled determination you take the first step and DECIDE that you are going to write. But about? Even the most seasoned writers have at one time suffered from a touch of writer's block and there are several tactics that a writer can employ to unclog the brain and get their creative juices flowing. But for you, the novice- the one whose ideas are still a collection of thoughts and feelings- choosing what to write about may prove to be a challenge.

• Read More Books

You've probably heard this a thousand times but that does not make it any less true. Reading many books exposes you to different creative ideas and writing styles. It is also a great way to expand your vocabulary and grammar. That is, unless you prefer thumbing through the dictionary in search of new words and their meaning. Many accomplished writers attest to reading at least every day. Develop this habit as you would any other helpful one like drinking water or exercising your muscles. The more you read, the easier it is for ideas to flow from your mind onto the blank page in front of you. E-books are a great way to incorporate reading into your daily schedule.  There are many great options available in the market. Our personal favorite is the Kindle Fire. 

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•  Just Write

Better to write something than nothing at all. One great trick that many writers use when going through the dreaded "writer's block" is to grab a pen and paper and jot down anything that comes to their mind. If nothing is forthcoming, write down things you see in your surroundings such as a vase , the floor or a chair and after jotting down several of these, try and connect them using simple phrases. For example, connecting a vase to the floor could be part of a dramatic argument between characters leading to the crushing of a vase onto the floor in anger. Your character might then slump back on a chair in a heap of tears or in total resignation. Suddenly, your writing has evolved from mere words on a page into an important part of the overall plot.

• Seek Like-Minded Individuals

Look for other writers in your community or online that you can bounce ideas off of. Join a book club, go to book signings and engage with other like-minded individuals. These networks can help tremendously in establishing themes, detecting and avoiding plot holes while at the same time connecting you with valuable writer resources. When you are a part of a writing community, you have your own intimate audience that can help you understand what readers want and how to connect with them. The more a book is deconstructed and discussed, the better you are at understanding your own characters and how they may be perceived by the reader.

• Don't Give Up

Agatha Christie, the queen of British mystery novels tried to get her work published for five years before she got a deal. Jack Canfield, whose book "Chicken Soup For The Soul" series was rejected 140 times before he struck it big. Chances are, you may get a few "no's" before your "yes" comes. Don't let rejection kill your spirit. 

The more you practice these simple steps, the closer you will get to your completed manuscript.