Invest in Yourself

If you want to do excellent work you need to invest in quality tools.

A cook needs good knives. An athlete needs high-performance shoes and clothing. A serious musician needs a professional-quality instrument.

What about a writer?

• What tools will help you produce quality work?
• What upgrades will help you become a better or more efficient writer?
• How will you honor your calling and God-given talents by investing in your writing journey?

Are you ready to invest in yourself? Here are some tools, resources, and opportunities to consider:

• How-to Books. We can always learn more about the craft and business of writing. What books need to be added to your writing shelf?
• Books to inspire you. If you want to write a good book, you should be reading good books—in your genre and in others.
• Reference books. The internet is a wonderful tool, but sometimes you need a book, because A) the information isn’t readily available elsewhere, or B) it’s quicker and easier for you to find a particular fact in a book you know well.
• Classes. Some professions require you to get so many Continuing Education Credits every year to maintain your license. Writing isn’t like that, but classes are still a wise investment.
• Writing tools. Computer, keyboard, printer, pens, notebooks. What tools do you use on a daily basis? Are you making do with the family’s leftovers or do you care enough about writing to invest in quality?
• Software. Writing, editing, photo editing, social media scheduling, time management, marketing… Sure, you can get by with the free or basic versions of these programs, but sooner or later it becomes a good investment to upgrade to the “Pro” level. Is now the time to become a pro?
• Workspace. Would a dedicated writing space help you work more efficiently? Is your current workstation ergonomically designed, or do you need a more supportive chair or an adjustable desk? Maybe a new light or a fresh coat of paint will do wonders for your frame of mind?
• Conferences. Writing conferences are one of the best ways to network and meet industry professionals. Now is the time to consider which conferences you will attend in 2020 and begin saving for them.
• Expert help. No writer can do it all. Sometimes we need to hire an editor, website designer, publicist, or other expert to help do what we can’t do well ourselves.
• The small stuff. Healthy snacks. Inspiring wall art. Coffee mugs or water bottles that help you get into your “writer’s mindset.” What small things will help you get motivated and maintain energy throughout your writing sessions?

Hint: Some of these suggestions would make a nice Christmas or birthday present, so update your wish list today. And don’t forget to make room in next year’s budget for bigger items and a conference or two.

You and your words are worth the investment!

Award-winning writer Lisa E. Betz believes that everyone has a unique story to tell the world. She loves inspiring fellow writers to be more intentional about developing their craft and courageous in sharing their words. Lisa shares her words through speaking, leading Bible studies, writing historical mysteries, and blogging about living intentionally.

You can find her on Facebook  LisaEBetzWriter Twitter @LisaEBetz and Pinterest Lisa E Betz Intentional Living.