Tag: Leigh Ann Thomas

Categories
Support

On Writing: This is the Year

 

This is the year—the year we finish the manuscript and click send.

The year we commit to being a writer with goals and purpose.

The year we bind our fears and bring a message of hope to a world struggling to breathe.

This is the year the following questions will no longer haunt us:

  

  • What makes me think I can be a writer?

For God’s gifts and his call can never be withdrawn (Romans 11:29).

By God’s grace and mighty power, I have been given the privilege of serving him by spreading this Good News (Ephesians 3:7).

 

  • Will I ever finish this manuscript?

By perseverance the snail reached the ark. Charles Spurgeon

If you’re running a 26-mile marathon, remember that every mile is run one step at a time. If you are writing a book, do it one page at a time. If you’re trying to master a new language, try it one word at a time. There are 365 days in the average year. Divide any project by 365 and you’ll find that no job is all that intimidating.  Charles Swindoll

Our motto must continue to be perseverance. And ultimately I trust the Almighty will crown our efforts with success. William Wilberforce

Beginning well is a momentary thing; finishing well is a lifelong thing.  Ravi Zacharias

  

  • Another rejection. Will I ever be published?

I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit (Ephesians 3:16).

We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation (Romans 5:3-4).

Do not be lazy. Run each day’s race with all your might, so that at the end you will receive the victory wreath from God. Keep on running even when you have had a fall. The victory wreath is won by him who does not stay down, but always gets up again, grasps the banner of faith and keeps on running in the assurance that Jesus is Victor.  Basilea Schlink

2018 is the year.

Fire the laptop. Prime the pen.

Keep writing!

[bctt tweet=”This is the year—the year we finish the manuscript and click send. @A3writers @LThomasWrites #Writing #Publishing” via=”no”]

[bctt tweet=”This is the year we commit to being a writer with goals and purpose. @A3writers @LThomasWrites #Writing #Publishing” via=”no”]

(Scripture quotations NLT)

 

Leigh Ann Thomas is the author of three books, including Ribbons, Lace, and Moments of Grace—Inspiration for the Mother of the Bride (SonRise Devotionals). A regular contributor to AlmostAnAuthor.com, Just18Summers.com, and InTheQuiver.com, she has also published with Southern Writers Suite T, The Write Conversation, and Power for Living. She is a contributing author in 10 books and her award-winning fiction is included in three editions of Southern Writers Magazine’s Best Short Stories. You can find Leigh Ann on her front porch daydreaming story plots, or blogging at LeighAThomas.com.

Twitter: https://twitter.com/lthomaswrites

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leigh.nallthomas

 

 

 

Categories
Create. Motivate. Inspire.

Navigating the Writer-Editor Relationship

Ah, at last!

The proposal and manuscript is complete, polished, and sent. A contract is offered and joyfully signed. Now what?

The editing process—molding, shaping, and polishing our rough-cut diamond into a sparkling jewel, fit for publication. But no worries—we’ve come this far. How hard can this editing thing be?

The answer depends on whether or not we’re open to growth and change.

I’ve had the privilege of working with gifted editors, and certain things stand out as vital for an author in the editing process.

An author must:

  • Move beyond shock and awe.There will be changes to our work. An editor’s fresh perspective will see myriad ways to improve. Also, in addition to finding basic mistakes in grammar, punctuation, and structure, publishing houses have their own styles and preferences. In my latest work, I surrendered my overuse of italics. No big deal? I love italics (see what I did there?)—for thoughts, prayers, emphasis—you name it. I grieved the loss, but the result is a cleaner manuscript.
  • Grow through the process. The editing journey is a unique opportunity to gain insight from the best—to soak in the expertise of a pro and to learn from the inevitable mistakes and changes. Keep copies of track changesand other notes. Study them to know why the changes are needed and let it translate to a future project. Using newfound knowledge in the next writing venture is a huge confidence-builder.
  • Remember the editor is an ally. We share a goal with our editor—to pull the best from our work. He or she is not daydreaming of unique ways to “murder our darlings.” Our beloved manuscript is being refined! It’s okay to disagree and ask why, but no editor wants a constant battle. Trust in her mastery and be thankful (and excited!) for the opportunity to work with a professional.

What would you add as important for an author in the writer-editor relationship?

[bctt tweet=”Writer-Editor Relationship: Move Beyond Shock and Awe @A3Writers @LThomasWrites #Writing #Editing” via=”no”]

[bctt tweet=”Navigating the Writer-Editor Relationship @A3Writers @LThomasWrites #Writer #Editor #Pubtip” via=”no”]

Fire the laptop. Prime the pen.

Keep writing!

 

Leigh Ann Thomas is the author of three books, including Ribbons, Lace, and Moments of Grace—Inspiration for the Mother of the Bride (SonRise Devotionals). A regular contributor to AlmostAnAuthor.com, Just18Summers.com, and InTheQuiver.com, she has also published with Southern Writers Suite T, The Write Conversation, and Power for Living. She is a contributing author in 10 books and her award-winning fiction is included in three editions of Southern Writers Magazine’s Best Short Stories. You can find Leigh Ann on her front porch daydreaming story plots, or blogging at LeighAThomas.com.

Twitter: https://twitter.com/lthomaswrites

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leigh.nallthomas

 

 

 

 

Categories
Create. Motivate. Inspire.

On Writing: 5 Ways to Stay Motivated

Progress has stalled on our latest writing project. We avoid our desk, tamp down the guilt, and stay busy doing anything but writing. Another day slips by with few words on the page. What’s an anxious writer to do?

Try these 5 techniques to stay motivated and keep the words flowing:

  • Set writing goals and put them in writing.

Have realistic daily, weekly, and monthly goals marked on a calendar for quick reference. These can range from word counts to number of pages. There’s nothing like the adrenaline rush of meeting a goal. A disciplined writer is a happy, productive writer.

  • Reward yourself for meeting goals.

Oh, how we abhor procrastination guilt! But if goals are met—even small ones—rewards can be enjoyed guilt-free. Take a walk, enjoy a sweet treat, meet a friend for lunch—anything to give our muse a break so we can return rejuvenated.

  • Establish pre-writing rituals and build creative anticipation.

This is my favorite motivation technique. Before I sit down to write, I have my morning coffee or tea, a light breakfast, devotion/quiet time, and then I dress for work (even though I’m working at home). Throughout my routine, I can feel the creative energy building. When I sit down at my computer, I’m ready to be productive (most of the time).

  • Keep an idea journal with notes, scribbles, visual aids, etc.

This journal or notebook needs to be a part of us, something that never leaves our side. Ideas will come at the most unusual times—while trying to fall asleep at night, in line at the grocery store, during the Sunday sermon, in traffic, watching a movie, etc. If we don’t write it down, it may be gone forever. When we’re short on ideas, our journal is a treasure trove of inspiration.

  • Share goals and ideas with a writer friend.

We must have accountability in our work. Writing is about community. We need someone to ask about our progress and to simply check in regularly. Another writer knows and understands the unique struggles we face and can help us through the dry times. Also, creative brainstorming with other writers can be pure joy, inspiring myriad projects, ideas, and story plots.

 

Are we ready?

Fire the laptop. Prime the pen.

Keep writing!

[bctt tweet=”5 techniques to stay motivated and keep the words flowing @A3Writers @LThomasWrites #writing #motivation” via=”no”]

[bctt tweet=”Establish pre-writing rituals and build creative anticipation @A3Writers @LThomasWrites #write #pubtip” via=”no”]

 

Leigh Ann Thomas is the author of three books, including Ribbons, Lace, and Moments of Grace—Inspiration for the Mother of the Bride (SonRise Devotionals). A regular contributor to AlmostAnAuthor.com, Just18Summers.com, and InTheQuiver.com, she has also published with Southern Writers Suite T, The Write Conversation, and Power for Living. She is a contributing author in 10 books and her award-winning fiction is included in three editions of Southern Writers Magazine’s Best Short Stories. You can find Leigh Ann on her front porch daydreaming story plots, or blogging at LeighAThomas.com.

Twitter: https://twitter.com/lthomaswrites

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leigh.nallthomas

Categories
Create. Motivate. Inspire.

On Writing: 3 Antidotes to Fear

The writing life stands poised to strike fear into the most steadfast heart—launching arrows of self-doubt, rejection-terror, and insecurity. What if my work isn’t good enough? What will “real” writers think? There are others more talented and qualified…

What do we gain by remaining paralyzed with fear? Constant stress. Frustration. Loss of joy.

Enough. It’s time to be gutsy and fire our own arrows at those crippling voices—before we’re tempted to walk away from work that should bring passion and life.

Here are three ways to stand strong and keep perspective:

 

  1. Realize that rejection serves a purpose and pushing through fear makes us stronger.

I’m not afraid of storms, for I’m learning how to sail my ship. –Louisa May Alcott

He who is not every day conquering some fear has not learned the secret of life. –Ralph Waldo Emerson

 

  1. Recognize that fear suppresses creativity and productivity and hinders our growth as an artist.

Worry is a cycle of inefficient thoughts whirling around a center of fear. –Corrie Ten Boom

It is better to make a thousand failures than to be too cowardly to ever undertake anything.  –Clovis G. Chappell

Fear is a self-imposed prison that will keep you from becoming what God intends for you to be. You must move against it with the weapons of faith and love.  –Rick Warren

 

  1. Rely on the faithfulness of the Creator and strive to be good stewards of our gifts.

It’s wonderful to climb the liquid mountains of the sky. Behind me and before me is God and I have no fears.  –Helen Keller

Only he who can say, “The Lord is the strength of my life” can say, “Of whom shall I be afraid?” –Alexander MacLaren

If the Lord be with us, we have no cause of fear. His eye is upon us, His arm over us, His ear open to our prayer – His grace sufficient, His promise unchangeable. –John Newton

Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus (Phil. 1:6).

 

One more quote relevant to the writer’s journey:

The fear of man strangles us, because we can never please everybody; but the fear of the Lord frees us, because it challenges us to live and serve for an audience of One. –Paul Chappell

 

Fire the laptop. Prime the pen.

Remember the audience of One and keep writing!

[bctt tweet=”Recognize that fear suppresses creativity and productivity @A3Writers @LThomasWrites #Writing #Publishing” via=”no”]

[bctt tweet=”On Writing: 3 Antidotes to Fear @A3Writers @LThomasWrites #Writing #Pubtip” via=”no”]

Categories
Create. Motivate. Inspire.

3 Simple Ways to Grow as a Writer

Most days, writing brings us joy. Our brains stay on overdrive as we scribble ideas on scraps of paper, napkins, and the edges of our church bulletins. A song on the radio sparks an idea and we scramble to record our thoughts. Middle-of-the-night inspiration brings a groan from our spouse as lamplight is needed to locate a pen fast.

But then, creativity stalls. The blank screen seems to mock us and make us wonder if the words will ever come. Or we are restless—writing the same old words, the same old way.

How do we avoid stagnation? Here are 3 simple ways to grow and to rediscover joy in our work:

  1. Read. And not what we always read. Read short stories and full-length novels. Read poetry and screen plays, magazines and newspapers. Read biographies and draw inspiration from stories of men and women who made a difference in our country and the world. Read about the amazing—about dragons and brave warriors. Be a kid again and devour tales of animals that talk and heroes who fly. Read words that make you think and ponder. And when you find a great book, slow down and ask, why is this good? Why did this book make me laugh, or forget the time? And how can I use these techniques in my work?
  1. Listen. There are stories all around us. When our parents or other family talk about the good old days? Listen closely—there are incredible story ideas tucked inside. When we hear bits of conversation waiting in line at the grocery store or sitting in a restaurant, let it spark our imaginations. Most importantly, listen for the heart-cries of our world. Are there needs God wants us to meet through an encouraging article or devotional? How can our words minister to someone today? Listen for God’s direction in each sentence composed.
  1. Daydream. Writers must be dreamers. Go a little crazy and lose the cellphone, turn off the television and computer, and simply be still. Something magical happens when we allow ourselves time to think and dream. Our imaginations take wing as we step away from everyday chaos and lift our hearts to the Author of creativity.

To be good stewards of our gifts, we must be intentional about growing in our craft.

Are we ready? Fire the laptop.

Prime the pen.

Keep writing!

How do you avoid stagnation in your writing? How do you keep the joy?

[bctt tweet=”We must be intentional about growing in our craft. @A3forMe @LThomasWrites #write #amwriting” via=”no”]

[bctt tweet=”Our imaginations take wing as we lift our hearts to the Author of creativity. @A3forMe @LThomasWrites #write #create” via=”no”]

Categories
Create. Motivate. Inspire.

Writing His Answer

I was immersed in online research for a work-in-progress when my computer froze and a warning banner flashed across the screen. I tapped on the keys, hoping for a quick fix. No such luck.

The escape key was my next option. Nothing. I was ready to ctrl-alt-del when the warning banner changed colors and a shrill alarm filled the room. Um…not good.

Right before my eyes, I was under attack. Irritated, I shut down my computer and waited for rescue by my super-tech husband. I was confident he would hit a few keys and life would return to normal. How bad could it be?

For hours my husband and I worked on that virus. Oh, there were promises of answers. Hundreds of “voices” offered solutions and quick fixes—for a price. But we had no way of knowing what or whom to trust.

I felt frustrated. Anxious. Vulnerable. I needed an answer—it seemed that my life was on that computer. And I was mad—at the virus, and at the attackers.

Around midnight, after five straight hours of intense effort, my husband placed the computer on my lap and gave me a tired smile. “It’s going to be okay.”

Relief poured over me—and gratitude. An answer! There was an answer!

In our Christ-walk, God wants us to pause, look around, and see a world searching for answers. Really see the men, women and children who are overwhelmed, frustrated, and anxious. People who search for a solution to their emptiness in a culture of chaos. Those under attack by myriad “voices”—confused about whom to trust.

They are souls waiting for rescue.

In Galatians, Paul encourages the believers to “do good to all people” and to “not become weary.” He knew that as Christians in a secular culture we would get tired and be tempted to quit—especially when we didn’t see quick results from our efforts.

But there are those who long for the sweet relief of discovering The Answer. Those who crave truth and purity and liberation from their bondage to this world.

They need someone to say, “It’s going to be okay.”

God’s word promises us a harvest—if we don’t give up. So stand strong.

Keep writing His answer.

Don’t quit!

[bctt tweet=”Keep writing His answer. Don’t quit! @A3forMe @LThomasWrites #amwriting #write” via=”no”]

[bctt tweet=”There are those who long for the sweet relief of discovering The Answer. @A3forMe @LThomasWrites #Write #Amwriting” username=””]

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up (Galatians 6:9 NIV).

How do you keep discouragement at bay in your writing life?

Categories
Create. Motivate. Inspire. Support

On Writing: Breaking Through Doubt and Fear

Please Lord, please…could I possibly get an honorable mention? Just one of those beautiful folders with a certificate inside. Please, Lord? My mom liked my story. She said it made her cry. That counts for something, doesn’t it?

The urgent prayer pounded in my heart and mind as I strained to hear the voice of the contest coordinator during the writers conference awards dinner. A hundred conversations swirled around the banquet room but my attention was riveted on center stage.

Please, Lord…

For this girl, 2014 was not just another conference. After running from God’s purposes for close to a decade, I stepped onto the conference campus with a heart of fear and trembling and a suitcase packed with dreams.

Alone and not knowing anyone in attendance, I gripped the Lord’s hand so tightly I half-expected to hear a Holy Ghost ouch!

But with great compassion and long-suffering, God carried me as I clung and held me as I wept.

First, I cried through my critique session. Then I cried from the embarrassment of crying. I sobbed after workshops from hearing God’s call in the encouragement and teaching of the faculty. The tears flowed each evening as I praised God for new friendships with other writerly souls.

My time of wandering in the desert, fighting the call to write, was ending—and it wasn’t comfortable. Thrilling, maybe. Terrifying, without a doubt. But comfortable? Not even a little bit. (I guess the Lord thought my desert needed watering because I think of that week as the Great Flood.)

By Wednesday evening and the awards banquet, I was a sopping mess. I had the “gall” to enter two contests. The short story category passed me by and now I was pleading my case for flash fiction.

Please, Lord…I need something tangible to affirm your voice.

The announcer stepped to the podium. “Flash fiction, honorable mention…”

The name called wasn’t mine.

Third place, Lord? Would that be possible?

As the third and second place winners were called and applause filled the room for other writers, the strangest thing happened. I took a deep breath and realized that my soul was infused with joy—and peace and hope and excitement for the future. Whatever happened, God brought me to this place.

The moment was the culmination of a heart’s surrender and a life’s redirection. No matter what, I was a writer.

And yes, I wanted to cry.

I glanced up, surprised that the announcer was still talking. “Flash fiction, first place…”

In the most surreal of moments, my name floated from the stage.

I’m sure I gave those around me a good chuckle. My hands flew to my mouth, I gasped, and my thoughts were screaming, I want to thank my mama, my papa, and the good Lord above (the CMA awards would have been proud).

The award was more than “winning.” A gracious God affirmed His call and design. He brought life back to my barrenness.

A year later, the 2015 conference was amazing. More affirmation. New doors of opportunity. But do you know what hangs front and center on my office bulletin board?

The award for my little piece of flash fiction. The one that I hoped to reach an honorable mention.

For a loving Father gave me more than I dreamed or imagined.

We serve a God who restores and turns ashes into beauty. He reaches through fear and tugs—fearfully and gently—come, child…trust Me.

If fear is preventing you from attending a conference or entering a contest, remember this:

There is joy, peace, and passion in doing what you were created to do.

The time is now.

Reach. Write. Live.

 

As you seek to put pen to paper, how do you battle the voices of doubt and insecurity? What will you do this year to break through any fear or hesitation in your writing?

 

[bctt tweet=”There is joy, peace, and passion in doing what you were created to do. @A3forMe @lthomaswrites #amwriting #ampublishing” via=”no”]

[bctt tweet=”We serve a God who restores and turns ashes into beauty. @A3forM3 @lthomaswrites #amwriting #write #restore” via=”no”]

Categories
Create. Motivate. Inspire.

After Submission: 3 Vital Steps

We’ve submitted that article, devotion, or book proposal, and the feelings of euphoria have begun to fade. Questions ping through our minds like rogue fireworks. When will I hear something? Will they like it? How will my submission stand out against so many? What do I do now?

The next steps are critical to our writing health. Will we flounder, unsure of the next project to tackle, or will we soar on a wave of momentum?

Here are 3 steps to help with perspective and focus after a submission:

  1. Pray, leaving your work in God’s hands. Thank Him for the opportunity to write and submit your work. Praise Him for the gift of words and for being the Source of all creativity. Ask Him for strength and wisdom to be patient in waiting and to trust His purposes.
  1. Rest and restore both mind and body. Whether a few minutes, hours, or days, take a break from work. Take a walk, read, or enjoy another creative or artistic activity. Make a short-list of future writing projects and pray over them, seeking God’s heart. (For a fresh perspective, try to do this away from your normal work location.)
  1. Get busy! Resist procrastination. Eagerly delve into the next project. Remember—you have accomplished something most writers haven’t—you have completed and submitted your work. Use this momentum as fuel for your next ideas. Ensure that what you’ve learned in this writing journey translates to the new work.

Pray, rest, and get busy. Are we ready?

Fire the laptop. Prime the pen. Let’s get to work!

[bctt tweet=”After Submission–3 Vital Steps @lthomaswrites #amwriting #writertips” username=”@A3forMe”]

How have you maintained focus and perspective after a submission?

Categories
Create. Motivate. Inspire.

Focus (Or Lack Thereof)

With an incredible sense of purpose, I opened the window blinds and faced the morning sun.

Today, I thought, I’m going to make something happen. My keyboard will soar in the hands of a skillful writer. I will conquer the screen and many will be blessed because of my courage.

As I completed morning chores, my thoughts ran ahead to the words I wanted to whittle and shape with vision and imagination. A glass of Diet Dr. Pepper close by, I sat at my desk, fingers poised over the keyboard. A pen and legal pad were on standby. Oh, yeah. This was going to be good.

But wait, this screen is dusty. Where’s my super-duper lint-free cloth?

What a lovely day. Maybe I should write outside…

Did the dryer just buzz?

I need some music.

Uh-oh. Need a refill on soda.

This music is annoying.

Okay, here we go. Once upon a time… Brilliant, just brilliant.

Um…Once upon a dark and stormy night…

Maybe it’s time for a break.

I would love to say that mornings like these are few and far between. But all too often, the hours can slip by with few words on the page. Good intentions get lost in a lack of self-control and I accomplish very little. I’m guilty of having the attention span of a puppy—my thoughts jumping from one distraction to the next.

The Apostle Paul taught the Corinthian believers of the need for discipline and self-control.  “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.  Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.  Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air” (1 Cor. 9:24-26).

When we approach our writing time with a careless attitude, we are “running aimlessly” and “beating the air.” Paul knew that ministry without Christ-centered focus would ultimately fail, and his witness would suffer. “No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize” (V.27).

A fruitful writing ministry is grounded in discipline and in the relentless seeking of the heart of God.

And the joy from such a ministry will spill over and change the world.

 

Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control (Prov. 25:28).

 

As we consider our writing life over the past few days, are we plagued by a lack of discipline? How can we be better stewards of our time?

 

[bctt tweet=”How can we be better stewards of our writing time? #amwriting #writertips ” username=”@A3forMe @lthomaswrites”]

[bctt tweet=”A fruitful writing ministry is grounded in discipline and in the relentless seeking of the heart of God. #amwriting #writer” username=”@A3forMe @lthomaswrites”]

Categories
Create. Motivate. Inspire.

A Note by Any Other Name

Three days before Christmas, a delivery man turned in our driveway, honked the horn, and requested my signature. Then he presented me with a certified letter, calling out “Merry Christmas” as he drove away.

A certified letter? This wasn’t something I received every day. Or ever.

The return address was stamped with the name of a publishing house where I had submitted a work of fiction. My knees wobbled and for a moment I forgot I was standing outside in 30-degree weather without a coat or shoes. My heart beating double-time, I flew into the house and stood staring at the envelope.

Could it be? After all this time? This was shaping up to be the best Christmas ever!

Heart still skipping, palms slightly moist, I began to read:

“Thank you for your submission. Our staff has looked over your manuscript, but we have decided not to pursue publication at this time.”

Wait, what?

Confused, I studied the envelope. But it came by certified mail.

Certified. Mail.

Some writers call them no-thank-you notes. But let’s call them what they are—rejection letters. Whatever we have attempted to submit for publication has been returned with the carefully pre-penned words: Thank you for your submission, but…

It’s the “but” that gets me every time.

The words following that but tend to blur into garbled script—it doesn’t meet our needs at this time…we have decided not to pursue publication…it doesn’t fit our editorial calendar…

I thought about finding a job writing the infamous rejection letters. Let’s see…I so appreciate your courage and hard work…and believe me, this is not personal…and, um, I don’t want you to give up your dreams of publication…but…

Oh well. I guess straight-and-to-the-point is best.

My certified rejection was unique, but there have been other no-thank-you notes containing glimpses of hope, and if I hadn’t been blinded by my poor attitude, I might have recognized what they offered.

Flipping through my rejection file, I paused to read a note from several years ago. It began typically enough…Thank you for your recent submission. Unfortunately…

And several years ago, that’s where I stopped reading.

But now, I continued: Unfortunately, it is too long for our children’s book format. If you would like to rework it and resubmit we would be happy to review it again.

Wait, what? Rework it and resubmit…?

Shame washed over me as I realized what my attitude may have cost me. This publisher had given me a touch of direction, an offer to review it again.

And I had thrown away the opportunity.

I am so thankful we serve a God who redeems our mess-ups and uses them for His glory. Romans 8:28 is a verse I tend to shy away from, but its power is unmistakable. And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Some of the good from my mistakes and no-thank-you notes center on the Holy Spirit’s work in my heart. Through my faltering steps, God has worked to refine me and call me into a place of deeper trust and reliance on Him. Keeping my hand in His gives me the courage to keep those submissions out there, trusting the results to His purposes.

A writer’s life is a jumble of joy and despair, elation and misery. But everything in the life of a Christian writer can be used for the glory of God.

Even a certified no-thank-you.

 

What is the most unique no-thank-you you have received and how can you use it to encourage other writers?

[bctt tweet=”Thankful we serve a God who redeems our mess-ups and uses them for His glory. @lthomaswrites #amwriting” username=”@A3forMe”]

[bctt tweet=”What can we learn from rejection? @lthomaswrites #amwriting” username=”@A3forMe”]

Categories
Create. Motivate. Inspire.

On Writing: 5 Insights from C. S. Lewis

Need a bit of insight as you ready the pen or laptop today? Consider the following from one of the greatest writers of all time:

  1. “Take great pains to be clear. Remember that though you start by knowing what you mean, the reader doesn’t, and a single ill-chosen word may lead him to a total misunderstanding. In a story it is terribly easy just to forget that you have not told the reader something that he needs to know—the whole picture is so clear in your own mind that you forget that it isn’t the same in his.”
  2. “When you give up a bit of work don’t (unless it is hopelessly bad) throw it away. Put it in a drawer. It may come in useful later. Much of my best work, or what I think my best, is the re-writing of things begun and abandoned years earlier.”
  3. “Always prefer the plain direct word to the long, vague one. Don’t implement promises, but keep them.”
  4. “Don’t use adjectives which merely tell us how you want us to feel about the things you are describing. I mean, instead of telling us the thing is ‘terrible’ describe it so that we’ll be terrified. Don’t say it was ‘delightful’; make us say ‘delightful’ when we’ve read the description. You see, all those words (horrifying, wonderful, hideous, exquisite) are only like saying to your readers ‘Please, will you do my job for me.’”
  5. “We must not of course write anything that will flatter lust, pride or ambition. But we needn’t all write patently moral or theological work. Indeed, work whose Christianity is latent may do quite as much good and may reach some whom the more obvious religious work would scare away. The first business of a story is to be a good story. When Our Lord made a wheel in the carpenter shop, depend upon it: It was first and foremost a good wheel. Don’t try to ‘bring in’ specifically Christian bits: if God wants you to serve him in that way (He may not: there are different vocations) you will find it coming in of its own accord. If not, well—a good story which will give innocent pleasure is a good thing, just like cooking a good nourishing meal. . . . Any honest workmanship (whether making stories, shoes, or rabbit hutches) can be done to the glory of God.”

Who is your go-to author for inspiration?

Get inspired and keep writing!

[bctt tweet=”5 Writing Tips from C. S. Lewis @A3forMe #amwriting #writer” via=”no”]

[bctt tweet=”Any honest workmanship (whether making stories, shoes, or rabbit hutches) can be done to the glory of God.” C.S. Lewis @A3forMe @lthomaswrites” via=”no”]

(1, 2) C. S. Lewis letter to a girl named Thomasine (December 14, 1959).

(3, 4) C. S. Lewis letter to Joan Lancaster (June 26, 1956).

(5) C. S. Lewis letter to Cynthia Donnelly (August 14, 1954).

More insight from Lewis: https://blogs.thegospelcoalition.org/justintaylor/2016/03/26/15-pieces-of-writing-advice-from-c-s-lewis/

Categories
Support

THIS IS WAR!

Tackling a writing project can be a battle—a hard-fought conflict with procrastination, fear, insecurity, and self-discipline.

We’ve all authored projects that took a toll mentally and physically (like being run over by a truck).

But what is the root of these issues?

For a Christian writer, our struggle is not against flesh and blood (Eph. 6:12). As we submit articles, stories, devotions, and novels with a Christ-centered worldview, we are threatening the forces of evil. Satan is not happy.

Check out verse 12 in context: For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

If we write for Christ, we are a threat to the powers of darkness. These powers of evil can attack and overwhelm us on every side. They whisper sour nothings in our ears: Who do you think you are? You’re not a writer! Why even try when you’ll be rejected? Don’t worry about that opportunity—do it tomorrow…

What’s a beleaguered writer to do?

Our answer is found in verses 13-17: Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

Are we ready to take a stand?

Belt of truth: In my writing, am I staying true to the Word of God? Do I water-down the Gospel to achieve publication?

Breastplate of righteousness: Am I tempted to compromise biblical values in my work?

Shoes of readiness: Do I walk in obedience to my Lord, ready to follow His voice?

Shield of faith: Do I believe God when He says He has called me to write? Do I trust Him to guide me in my work?

Helmet of Salvation: Does Christ control my thought-life?

Sword of the Spirit: Do I live in the Word so that my life reflects His strength and glory?

Let’s not leave our armor in a drawer or leaning by the back door. It’s time to suit up and get busy.

The time is now!

 

Which piece(s) of God’s armor are you prone to neglect? Does it make a difference in your writing?

[bctt tweet=”In my writing, am I staying true to the Word of God? ” username=”@a3forme @lthomaswrites”]

[bctt tweet=”Am I tempted to compromise biblical values in my work?” username=”@a3forme @lthomaswrites”]

Categories
Create. Motivate. Inspire. Support

Check Your Writer’s Pulse!

It’s time for a check-up. Take a deep breath and consider this:

What do you love most about writing?

Answer A – Where do I begin? Losing myself in a story? The feeling of my fingers on the keyboard, the cursor flying across the screen? Disappearing for hours in imaginary worlds, knowing that God and I are on this incredible adventure together? Realizing I’ve been called to write for His glory and that my words will make a difference? Conquering the blank page? Brainstorming new ideas? Learning and growing with other writers? (Stop me, I’m on a roll…)

Answer B – Seriously? Do you know how many rejections I received this month? Do you have any idea the deadlines I’m under? Have you seen my blog numbers? If my mom didn’t check in once in a while, I wouldn’t have any consistent followers. My writer friends are getting published and building their platforms. I haven’t hammered the first nail in the first sheet of plywood. (Stop me, I’m on a roll…)

Maybe your answer falls somewhere between the two. You have days of I-really-love-this and days of what-in-the-world-am-I-doing?

We have highs and lows in any career field, but have we lost our joy in writing? If we’re filled with anxiety and dread at the thought of putting pen to paper, it’s time to pause for a reality check.

In our writing lives, do we:

Watch the numbers?

Do we check our “likes” and “shares” every few minutes after we send a post into the world? Do we measure success by the digits? Have our readers become faceless statistics? Have we forgotten that God measures victory by obedience and changed lives?

Play the comparison game?

Are we excited or frustrated when others succeed? Do we share the work of other writers or just our own? Do we feel resentment when another writer enjoys the spotlight? Do we regularly pray for our writer friends?

Focus on the climb?

Is our goal to suffer through writing the free stuff so we can get to the “real” paying jobs? Have we become too “talented” to help an aspiring writer? Are we being still before the Lord, seeking His heart and purpose for our work?

 

The stakes are too high to trudge through a mediocre writing life. Taking the time to check our writing pulse will identify areas of concern and breathe new life into our work.

We are writers on a mission.

Let’s get busy!

 

How do you keep your writer’s pulse strong and healthy?

 

[bctt tweet=”The stakes are too high to trudge through a mediocre writing life” username=”@A3forMe @cyleyoung @lthomaswrites”]

[bctt tweet=”What do you love most about writing?” username=”@A3forMe @clyleyoung @lthomaswrites”]

 

 

 

Categories
Create. Motivate. Inspire. Support

Write, Wait…Marinate!

What a day. We’ve been fighting to stay in the zone, our fingers flying over the keyboard searching for that illusive magic. Mr. Deadline—arms crossed and watching with a smirk—ramps up the pressure.

Then, at last. We complete an article, story, or blogpost and in our humble opinion, the finished product is good. We are itching to click “submit” and get this fine piece of writing out into the world.

But wait. There’s one more thing we need to do, so with a groan, we hold back and click “save.”

Why?

The answer will be evident—tomorrow.

No matter how perfect our writing seems in the moment, after giving the words a few hours or days to marinate, needed changes will leap off the page.

And I do mean leap.

I will edit a manuscript ad nauseam, convinced it is submission-worthy, only to return days later and stare dumbfounded at overlooked mistakes. For crying out loud, did I really write “their” instead of “they’re” and use the same verb seven times? Mercy.

A tasty marinade propels an average piece of chicken from good to great—and the steeping process does the same with our writing. Engaging our work with fresh eyes and a clear head is like having superpowers: we have the ability to peer through the fog, locate problems, and brainstorm solutions.

We will see everything from typos and poor word choices to overall structural issues. And we will take great delight in the knowledge we didn’t hit “submit” prematurely.

Are we wasting time allowing a work-in-progress to sit for a couple of days? Absolutely not. We move on to other work. In fact, I love knowing I have a handful of projects out knocking on publication doors, a few marinating in various locations (a drawer, a friend’s computer, on a shelf, in the recesses of my brain), and others bubbling to life in a notebook of possibilities.

Are we ready? Write, wait…marinate. Then edit and send it packing!

 

Do you have a unique way to allow your work to marinate? What is the biggest issue your post-marinade superpower allowed you to see?

 

[bctt tweet=”Write, Wait…Marinate! #amwriting #A3″ username=”@A3forMe @lthomaswrites”] 

 

Categories
Create. Motivate. Inspire.

Write, Submit, Repeat

By all accounts, it was a productive year. Articles were accepted for publication. A book contract hung on my office bulletin board—front and center where I could draw motivation from the sight.

Several devotional collections accepted my submissions.

Then my husband sat down to wade through our tax returns and asked me for proof of how much I contributed to the household’s finances the previous year.

Not being a mathematician, I grabbed a scrap of paper and worked like a mad woman to add up the writing bounty…let’s see, add that, carry that number to this column, round up, no…round down…

The love of my life waited in quiet expectation for the grand total. “Um…well, it’s pretty much, uh… Wait. Let me add that column again…”

Sure enough, even with a busy writing year loaded with exciting news and opportunities, I barely made enough to take my sweetheart out to dinner.

Oh my goodness…what am I doing? When will I ever make enough to justify the time and effort?

Even with the promise of financial return on the horizon, it’s tough to keep writing and submitting without tangible payment.

But this is where we must dig in and persevere. The experts remind us: you are gaining experience, collecting clips, and building a platform. Keep writing!

If a magic formula exists, this is it: write, submit, and repeat.

The more we write, the better we become at forming and shaping ideas into words and sentences. We may not receive the green stuff for that newsletter article or VBS skit we labored over for hours, but we are glorifying our Lord by using the gifts He has given us.

With hard work and perseverance, the paying gigs will come.

Until then, keep writing!

 

Submission ideas: Church and associational newsletters, promo copy for special events at your children’s school or club, in-house feature articles on nursing home residents, obituary writing for families struggling to pull words together, letters to the editor, ad copy for local businesses (some of which could pay!)

[bctt tweet=”Write, Submit, Repeat!”]

Categories
Create. Motivate. Inspire. Support

5 Reasons NOT to Attend a Writing Conference

Conference season is upon us and social media is abuzz with encouragement to click a sign-up link and submit a deposit.

So what’s all the hoopla about a conference for writers? Are these events worth the time/money/effort to attend?

I’m not so sure. After careful deliberation, here are 5 reasons to stay home:

  1. You have plenty of writer friends and have no interest in meeting others.

Seriously. Within seconds of arrival, you would be amazed at the number of folks excited about putting pen to paper and eager to get to know you. And not just on the surface. They might ask what you like to write, what you dream of writing, what you hope to do with words, imagination, and hard work.

So, yeah. If sharing your writer-soul with other writerly-souls doesn’t appeal, then think twice about attending. Life-long friends can be such a nuisance.

  1. You already, um…know enough writer stuff.

The conference will be packed with classes on everything from grammar and punctuation to character development and plot lines. Not to mention workshops on proposals, query letters, manuscript submission, where to find work, how to build a resume, and tips on formatting everything from movie scripts to picture books. Want to try a class outside your genre? You’ll have the opportunity to get a little crazy and go for it.

Unless, of course, you wrote the book(s) on the aforementioned. (Then you might be compelled to share your expertise with the rest of us…) 

  1. Hanging out with a faculty of accomplished writers and authors sounds like a bore.

Hmm. I guess it could be a tad dull. You know, hearing about their writing journeys, their struggles, and how hard work and dreaming big paid off. Drinking from the well of experience and soaking in encouragement from the pros could be overwhelming. And if you’re on the fence with your decision, do not daydream about sitting next to your favorite author during lunch and having an actual conversation. That would just be weird. 

  1. You have reached your affirmation quota.

This is a given. Unless you check into your room and hide under the bed, you will receive encouragement—from the experts and from your new friends (see #1).

Sorry. Just the way it is.

  1. Attending a conference is expensive and time consuming.

This is true. There is cost involved. And sacrifice. Of course there are scholarships available, but you would have to apply. And there are smaller and shorter gatherings that cost less than the week-long events. Other options include: ask family and friends to invest in your dream through birthday and Christmas gifts, set aside a little dream-money each month, sell unused stuff on eBay, have a garage/yard sale, etc. (A cost/trouble/sacrifice analysis is recommended.)

 

In all seriousness, taking that step to attend a writing conference—especially for the first time—is huge. But you will NOT be alone. Grab a suitcase, pack your dreams and aspirations, dust off that manuscript (finished or not) and hit the trail.

The time is now!

Helpful links:

http://www.blueridgemountainschristianwritersconference.com/

http://www.almostanauthor.com/come-out-swinging-fighting-fear-as-a-writer/

http://www.almostanauthor.com/writers-conferences-main-thing/

http://www.almostanauthor.com/three-reasons-learn-share-writing/

http://www.vondaskelton.com/2016/02/16/writers-headlines-writing-opportunities-conferences-collected-just-for-you/

[bctt tweet=”5 Reasons NOT to Attend a Writing Conference”]

 

Categories
Create. Motivate. Inspire.

Come Out Swinging: Fighting Fear as a Writer

The writer’s life is not for the faint of heart. There are moments that are downright scary.

That first writer’s conference, critiques, contest entries, appointments with an editor/publisher, the blank page—all potentially terrifying.

If you’re like me, you’ve wasted precious writing time paralyzed by fears and insecurities. But enough is enough. Here are three ways to face our fears head-on:

1—Fight with prayer and the Word of God

Someone once told me: Don’t use the Lord, grow in Him. I took the advice to heart and over the years I realized that my writing flows out of my relationship to God. When my heart is not in tune with His or I’m running from His plans, the words become hollow.

When we are in steady communion with the One who created us—seeking His heart and purposes—we are compelled to use our gifts as an offering. And what joy, to feel His pleasure when putting pen to paper (or fingers to the keyboard).

2—Fight with hard work

Nike may have trademarked the phrase, Just Do It, but they didn’t corner the market on good ‘ole hard work. We must sit down and apply pressure to the little keys with letters on them. We must string the letters together to form words and sentences. It takes time. It’s rarely comfortable.

But the adrenaline rush after a completed page? Pure joy.

3—Fight with a humble heart

We are not the greatest writers who ever lived. The world doesn’t wait with baited breath to hear from us—Oh, if only she/he would put pen to paper, our lives would be complete…    

But…God is waiting to see if we will use our gifts and abilities for His glory. We are accountable to Him for how we spend our time and resources.

Also, we cannot survive on a writing-island. We need other writers. We learn and grow through how God is working in the lives of others.

A quick way to check our writer’s pulse: Are we excited when others succeed or do we resent their progress?

Being an encouragement to other writers is a great way to feed our own souls.

 

Overcoming fear as we put pen to paper is a daily battle—but with God’s help, the victory is ours!

How do you fight fear in your writing life?

 

[bctt tweet=”Are we excited when others succeed or do we resent their progress?”]

[bctt tweet=”How do you fight fear in your writing life?”]

Categories
Create. Motivate. Inspire. Support

Where is Your Happy Place?

When you write, do you have a happy place? Do conditions have to be “just right?” When are you most productive?

I like variety.

The beach, a restaurant, the porch, my desk, the kitchen table—all favorite writing spots. Give me a bit of real estate next to a window, light a candle, provide an endless supply of Diet Dr. Pepper and Peanut M&M’s—and you have a happy writer.

When my oldest girls were little, I also cared for three other children—five little ones in a very small space. But I had a routine. After lunch everyone had naptime/quiet time and this mom grabbed a notebook and pen, sat in the recliner with little ones close by—and wrote.

I had to work for my happy place. And results were crazy-slow (45-minute writing segments are tough). But God honored my dogged devotion to those 45 minutes and my first devotion book was born in this beautiful chaos.

This year, commit to creating a unique writing space—a place just for you with few interruptions.

If you’re like me, you can take a little bit of messy-desk syndrome, but you crave organization. A bit of transparency: my office is a disaster. I am a stack-things-up queen. If you took a peek you would assume it was a storage room.

One of my writing goals for early this year is to dig out of the mess and create a space that draws me in, encouraging creative thought.

Take a few minutes and examine your writing space(s) and work habits. How can they be improved to revive productivity? Check out The Efficiency Addict for great tips and ideas.

This is the time of year when we tend to examine our goals, successes, and progress. Let’s commit to giving God our best and using our abilities to bring Him glory. Let’s honor Him with excellence!

And may we remember to pray for each other in our writing journeys.

Happy writing!

 

[bctt tweet=”Where is your writing happy place? #A3 #amwriting”]

[bctt tweet=”Honor God with excellence #A3forme #amwriting”]

Categories
Create. Motivate. Inspire. Support

Take Another Look

One of my favorite drama exercises is to take a familiar object and brainstorm what that object could be. For example, when working with youth, I will hold out a wrapping paper tube and say, “What is this?”

After a few moments of silence and blank stares, someone will venture to say, “Um…it’s a wrapping paper thingy.”

Me: “No, it’s not.”

Youth: Blank stare.

Then I proceed to choke up on the tube with both hands, tap it on the ground a couple of times, and give my best Babe Ruth imitation.

Youth: “It’s a baseball bat?”

Then I use the tube to “row” around the room.

Youth: “It’s an oar!”

Me: “Yes, yes! What else can it be?!”

This is when things get crazy and fun. Those wrapping paper tubes transform into javelins, telescopes, pole vaults, swords, walking canes, batons, trumpets, shovels, golf clubs, flutes, muskets, light sabers, scepters, and a zillion others things.

In a matter of moments, my young dramatists begin seeing their world in a new light.

 

As writers, we tend to putter along in our everyday routines without seeing past the familiar. But when we take the time to see people and circumstances from different angles, creativity soars.

-That news anchor on the morning broadcast is professional, composed, and beautiful. Not a hair out of place. But what about when the station cuts to commercial? Does she fight to keep her composure? Did something happen this morning to break her heart? Or maybe she just found out she will be a mother and she’s fighting the giggles while reporting world events…

– The young man bagging groceries placed our canned veggies on top of our bread. On top of our bread. We struggle to see through our irritation. But wait, is he simply distracted? Did he take this job to help his parents make ends meet? Is he waiting to see if the money comes through for college? Is he planning on robbing the store later? Does he actually take pleasure in squishing people’s bread?

– Our cellphone buzzes/beeps/rings. Again. We fantasize about flushing it down the…well, you know. But wait…what if cell service disappeared? In fact, what if all modern communications ceased for a week or even longer? What if every cellphone user in the country/world received the same message at the same time from an unknown source? Um, creepy.

 

Over the coming days and weeks, jump in and take another look! What will you do with your wrapping paper tubes?

[bctt tweet=”How do we see past the familiar? #almostanauthor #amwriting #getcreative”]

 

 

Categories
Create. Motivate. Inspire.

Writers: Be Prepared for These Questions

The writing-life doesn’t look like other career-fields. A lot of what we do happens when we’re home alone or in a corner of the local Starbucks. We keep strange hours. We write every day for hours at a stretch or we work in snatches of time on the weekends. We write on the back of napkins and across the front of church bulletins. Our brains never shut down.

We’re an odd lot to those around us.

Here are a few of my favorite questions…

 

So, what do you do?

I had to take a sword to a few doubts and insecurities, but I got to a place where I could verbalize my life’s calling without stuttering, “Well, actually, um…I’m sort of like…a writer.”

I’m not sure why the journey to admitting writer-hood is so difficult. I mean, I’ve never asked someone what they did for a living and they came back with, “Well, um…I’m kind of a doctor.” Or, “I’m…well, I’m trying to be…um, an architect.”

So, let’s get this question settled in our minds. Are we writers? Great. Then we must be able to say it—with confidence.

I. Am. A. Writer.

 

When are you going to write a novel?

Now, if I’m a novelist, this is an easy one. I plug my latest work or give a teaser about my work-in-progress.

But I’m not a novelist. At this point, my brain doesn’t work that way.

For example, when I witness a child throwing a tantrum in the grocery store, my mind shifts into overdrive: Wow. That rascal is really pitching one. His poor mother. Hmm…kind of like me, huh Lord? I may look calm on the outside, but inside I’m throwing a tantrum—rebelling—against Your plans and purposes.

Or I see a drama sketch unfolding…what if the Pastor starts his message, and we have a child “pitch one” beside the pulpit. We could add scripture and talk about the condition of our hearts…

These are my writing instincts. What are yours? However you are wired, your role in the writing world is vital.

Novelists are real writers. So are those who write devotionals, skits, short stories, biographies, articles, etc.

No more feeling like we don’t “measure up.”

Practice this: “I write devotional material (or short fiction, or children’s books, or…).

 

Is it wonderful to stay home and not work?

Fantasy answer #1—“Yes, it is wonderful. I love, love, love it. The words flow, the publishers snap them up, and my bank account grows. Life. Is. Good.”

Fantasy answer #2—“Not work? Are you kidding me? I agonized over an article for hours yesterday. I edited until my eyes crossed. I woke up at 2 a.m. with an idea that I had to get on paper. I’m under two deadlines and want to finish a proposal…”

Better/safer answer—“Actually, I’m a writer and I work from home. I am challenged and fulfilled and I can’t imagine doing anything else.”

 

What’s your favorite writer-question? How do you respond?

 

[bctt tweet=”However you are wired, your role in the writing world is vital. #writerlife #amwriting”]

[bctt tweet=”Are we writers? Great. Then we must be able to say it—with confidence. #writerlife #amwriting “]

Categories
Create. Motivate. Inspire. Support

3 Reasons to Get Busy

You paced around the house all day doing unnecessary chores. You read an article on writing. You rearranged stuff on your desk.

You thought about that novel or short story or article. You will get started—tomorrow.

An idea flits by and you think about writing it down—but your hand never gets the message to grab the pen. Whatever. There will be other ideas. Other opportunities.

If only you had more time. Less responsibility. A better writing space.

And so it goes…

So, what’s the big deal? Who cares if we squander a few writing-days waiting for inspiration?

 Here are 3 reasons for a writer to strap in and engage:

  1. Your readers are waiting. There’s a woman in the fight of her life—and with every chemo treatment her sword grows heavier. That devotion the Lord laid on your heart? This woman needs it. Now. Oh, you haven’t written it because you’re “just not feeling it?” Well, she’s feeling it. Every moment of every day. She’s a warrior—are you? And don’t forget the empty-nester, the overwhelmed mom of little ones, and the man contemplating divorce. God wants to use you to speak to them. So, um…get busy.
  2. You want to avoid a case of “writer’s misery.” We’ve all had it—that dreaded affliction called running-from-your-calling. Oh, we feel all noble—God called me to write but I just can’t break away from my responsibilities. I guess I’ll have to put my real-life on hold… Really. Well, you know what? Running makes you mean. And the meanness spills out and sloshes onto everyone around you. Remember the Jonah thing? I do. I’ve been there, suffered that. I was unbearable. There’s nothing more tragic than someone standing guard over their buried talent while they snap and growl at those who dare hand them a shovel. Enough already. Quit being mean.
  3. Your life depends on it.  Joy. Passion. Peace. All by-products of doing what you were created to do. God designed us for abundant, purposeful living. So, why do you waste time fighting those purposes? Stop it. If you’re like me, you prefer peace over chaos, and long for joy over misery. Do the Toby Mac thing—speak/write life.

 

Are you ready? It’s been buried long enough. Put all your weight on that shovel, dig deep, and brush away the dirt-covered excuses.

Fire the laptop. Prime the pen.

Now.

Do it now.

 

[bctt tweet=”Nothing more tragic than someone standing guard over their buried talent while they snap and growl at those who dare hand them a shovel. #writer #amwriting”]

[bctt tweet=”Joy. Passion. Peace. All by-products of doing what you were created to do. #amwriting “]

Categories
Create. Motivate. Inspire.

Sometimes, Yes

bball

I had just settled on our front porch swing with my yellow legal pad and favorite pen when Katie, my home-for-the-summer college girl, stepped outside with a basketball.

“Wanna shoot?”

When I didn’t respond right away, she continued down the porch steps and headed toward the ball goal.

I sighed. There was still a good hour of daylight and my mind was swirling with thoughts and ideas that I wanted to capture on paper. Writers are supposed to be disciplined and structured, right? We will never complete anything if we allow ourselves to be distracted from our work.

I watched Katie’s retreating form as she bounced the b-ball with one hand and inserted her iPhone earbuds with the other.

Decision made.

“Yeah, I’ll play.”

“Oh, okay. Cool.” She removed her earbuds, tucked them into a pocket, and launched her first shot. Swish.

I took a shot and watched it fall short (it had been awhile).

For the next hour, my daughter and I laughed, competed, and junk-talked. We took joy in the game, the wide-open night sky, and each other. And somewhere in that hour it hit me:

I needed this. I needed to step away from the legal pad and refresh a little.

Sometimes, it’s okay to say yes. We are better writers when we feed our souls in other activities and see our world from different angles.

What can you do to shake things up in your writing-life?

Play a game of b-ball (or golf, or tennis, or…).

Make a blanket-fort with the kids or grandkids.

Get in the kitchen and try that new recipe.

Take a friend up on that lunch invitation (it’s really okay).

Go on a date with your spouse.

Kick back with friends and watch a movie.

Daydream a little.

(More ideas here.)

On that special b-ball evening with my daughter, I did write a few words…

H-O-R-S-E (I lost this one, even with 2 shots on the “e”)

C-A-T (I lost this one, too.)

I-T (Um…yeah. But I did make her work for it.)

As a writer who needs to refresh once in a while, how can you say “yes” this week?

 

[bctt tweet=”What can you do to shake things up in your writing-life? #writer #amwriting”]

[bctt tweet=”We are better writers when we feed our souls in other activities and see our world from different angles. #writer #amwriting”]

 

Categories
Create. Motivate. Inspire. Support Writer Encouragement

3 Reasons to Learn How to Share (Your Writing)

I slogged through composing an article, retyping the same sentence six or seven times. The sentence was too short, too wordy, too awkward, too something. I deleted the string of witless words.

Nothing.

It was time to escalate so I shot an email to a writing buddy and attached the offending sentence along with a plea for help. In minutes, she replied with the suggestions of moving one word and adding punctuation after another.

The problem that I had stared down for way too long, she had solved in seconds.

In this unique realm where we subsist as writers, critique partners are our lifelines. The benefits of sharing our work with like-minded souls are boundless, including improving our basic skills, developing a sense of community, and dealing with doubts and insecurities.

Do you ever feel bogged down in a writing project? These are my three favorite reasons to reach out to other writers:

1. Accountability
Writers tend to live a life of isolation. We can stay secluded for days and even weeks at a time. The downside of this is the tendency to drift toward laziness and procrastination in our work. Knowing that someone will be asking about our progress can give us just the push we need to keep going.

2. Fresh Insight/Perspective
We can read our work a dozen times and not see the problems that a critique partner will see on a first perusal. Feedback is crucial to our growth and development as a writer. We learn exponentially under honest review and evaluation. My favorite phrase to hear is, “Is this what you meant to say…?”

3. Inspiration
Brainstorming with fellow writers can be a little touch of heaven on earth. Article and book ideas have been conceived from a group of writers laughing, sharing and challenging each other to dig deeper and reach higher. In a recent conference workshop, I deliberately began an article with over-the-top silliness. My critique group proceeded to surprise me by saying, “Keep it in!” They gave me the courage to jump in and experience something fresh and new in my writing.

[bctt tweet=”Brainstorming with fellow writers can be a little touch of heaven on earth. #amwriting @lthomaswrites”]

Who keeps you accountable and fans the flames of creativity in your writing-life? If no one comes to mind, make it a point to seek out like-minded friends and colleagues. Do a google-search of writer’s groups in your area or contact a respected conference website for recommendations (brmcwc.org and word-weavers.com are good examples).

You may be the inspiration that someone else is seeking.

[bctt tweet=”Who keeps you accountable and fans the flames of creativity in your writing-life? #amwriting #writer @lthomaswrites”]

Photo art by Hilary Brooke Hall ©2015
Used by permission