Tag: writer’s life

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Writing with a Disability (Different Ability)

Divergence And A Writer’s Life

As 2024 rolls away, it is still not playing out as I hoped it would. It is a different kind of year for me. Because of my brain injury, I plan and prepare for daily activities more than the average person.

Unexpected events can be hard for me to adjust to, sometimes even to the point of paralyzing me with fear. Still, I am learning God had different plans for me this year. Taking me out of my comfort zone and challenging me to grow as a person and as a writer. Most of us have a healthy fear of the unknown.

  • Unpredictable
  • Scary
  • Out of our control

After my accident, my life drastically changed and I had no idea what to expect of my new normal. Nor did my doctors and therapists know how I would live, because as our motto goes, “Every brain injury is different. “

Divergence

Growing up as an Army brat, I was used to being different, every few years I had to change schools, homes, and friends. It’s no wonder I enjoyed college so much and being around people from different cultures. However, my accident took being different to another level for me; I live as a divergent of a normal person.

Divergence is a deviation from a course or standard. It means a process of a person doesn’t work in typical ways. The reason why there was so much uncertainty about me after my accident is the doctors performed a risky operation to remove the right side of the frontal lobe of my brain; this caused my brain to rewire itself and diverge from the typical neural pathways.

 My brain injury changes the way every process of my body works. Every function both voluntary and involuntary is altered from the normal process. As an example, I have to consciously think about swinging my left arm when I walk and I have to consciously think about moving my left leg also.

That is how my TBI affects me; however, each brain injury comes with its own challenges and uniqueness, because each brain injury truly is different.

Different

The name of this column reflects persons of different abilities, the mindset is we are not less than healthy individuals, we just have different abilities. Persons with brain injuries like me may function differently only than other people, but we are no less human; even if some may think so.

 We may think and function differently, but we still live, breathe, and bleed like everyone else. Having a brain injury makes me part of the neurodivergent community. This community’s brains receive, process, and filter information in a nontypical fashion. Below are some common diagnoses of the neurodivergent community.

  1. ADHD
  2. Autism
  3. Dyslexia
  4. Dyspraxia
  5. Dyscalculia
  6. Dysgraphia
  7. Tourette Syndrome
  8. Intellectual disabilities
  9. Bipolar disorder
  10. Social anxieties
  11. Traumatic brain injuries

Living with a brain injury for 26 years has taught me to understand and accept different people and lifestyles. As writers, we don’t have the same goals, skills, or paths to success.

I often find myself looking at the success of other writers and feeling inadequate or overcome with disappointment because my writing journey isn’t the same as my writing friends’.

It is easy to get discouraged when we view our differences as roadblocks to success. Instead, we need to learn to celebrate our unique writing journey, skills, and success.

Celebrate

Next month brain injury survivors around the world will celebrate Brain Injury Awareness Month to shed light on brain injury awareness and to celebrate our uniqueness and successes.

We have learned to celebrate the small victories in life. The road to recovery is traveled one small step at a time. My first big success after my accident was learning how to feed myself without the aid of a nurse.

Don’t get me wrong it didn’t feel simple at the time; it was all I could do to keep the food from falling out of my mouth while I ate. Every brain injury comes with its difficulties and successes.

As writers, we each have different strengths and different weaknesses, I don’t know a writer who doesn’t have an area in their skills that they are trying to improve. Writing success and progress looks different for each of us, below are some common steps writers must take on their writing journey.

  • Blogging
  • Starting a newsletter
  • Getting bylines
  • Growing their platform
  • Growing the social media
  • Acquiring an agent
  • Signing a book contract

Each step takes a writer closer to their writing dream; learn to celebrate each success, no matter what the size. Take the time to grow as a writer and process what you learn.

Neurodivergent persons may see and process things differently, but that doesn’t mean they can’t celebrate the progress. Sometimes all I can hope for is a good day when I don’t wake up feeling confused or depressed.

Writers don’t have to wait to celebrate when they get published, we can also celebrate simply meeting our writing goal for the day. Even our daily writing goals can be divergent!

Martin Johnson

Martin Johnson survived a severe car accident with a (T.B.I.) Traumatic brain injury which left him legally blind and partially paralyzed on the left side. He is an award-winning Christian screenwriter who has recently finished his first Christian nonfiction book. Martin has spent the last nine years volunteering as an ambassador and promoter for Promise Keepers ministries. While speaking to local men’s ministries he shares his testimony. He explains The Jesus Paradigm and how following Jesus changes what matters most in our lives. Martin lives in a Georgia and connects with readers at MartinThomasJohnson.com  and on Twitter at mtjohnson51.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

Of Miners and Light

lighter look at a writer's life

Several years ago, I portrayed a coal miner in a community play, and it opened my eyes to some things. I live in the coalfields of Eastern Kentucky and have known many coal miners throughout my life, but I gained a new appreciation for their work, as well as some new insights about my role as a writer, through this production.

On a basic level, the equipment coal miners wear was a real eye-opener. A buddy of mine loaned me his uniform, and the mining boots were so heavy I ditched them after one painful dress rehearsal. The producers had procured mining helmets, complete with lights on the front. I got tangled in the cord leading from the battery pack to the helmet numerous times before I finally adjusted.

Our play included a re-creation of a mining disaster, giving me a new perspective of the dangers lurking in this profession. I developed even more respect for the brave men and women who go underground every day to provide for their families.

Another epiphany came as we performed a key scene. Some other “miners” and I made an entrance with our “head-lights” providing the only illumination in the darkened theater. It was a neat effect, and it made me think about my purpose as a Christian and as a writer.

Jesus has called me (and you) to shine His light in this world.

Just like that miner’s light illuminated the way in the theater, my writing (and yours) can shine God’s light in the dark places, helping others navigate the hard circumstances in this life. My name may never appear on a bestseller list, but, with God’s light, my work can penetrate cold, lonely hearts in need of encouragement.

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

Categories
Is It Too Late?

Do You FAce Writer’s Slam?

When a restaurant has too many people show up at one time to eat, they say they’re getting slammed. Writers experience getting slammed too. What is involved in a writer’s slam?

When I sought publication in 2019, I found out that a good or even great manuscript was only the beginning. A writer must be prepared to sell themselves, as well as the story. Most agents and editors look for an online presence, an ability to draw an audience through your newsletter, your ability to write a synopsis, do an elevator pitch, and write an outline of your story.

Another way a writer receives a slam involves critiques.

You must learn to take critiques with a thick-skinned attitude. Most people loved the concept of my first book, but no one liked the opening lines. (And I mean no one.) I rewrote the first paragraph of that book at least twenty times. I’m talking about the arrangement of a few sentences with changes in wording several times! After a while, it had me questioning my ability to write anything at all. Through lots of encouragement and mentoring, I could look beyond the criticism and see the goal. A well written opening scene to an exciting story.

You’re probably thinking, “How do I survive the slam?”

The first step to survival remains having a positive attitude.

This holds true in many areas of life. Look forward to each day as an opportunity to learn what comes next in the journey. Pray for guidance and patience. Realize there will be setbacks and let downs. Keep moving forward. Try again.

The second step involves finding a group of people who are like-minded and have the same goals as you do.

There are many ways to accomplish this. Facebook groups, websites, podcasts, and local writers. I began a group at my local library for writers. We’ve become a tight-knit group of encouragers. Take notes, make lists of contests, follow other writers and authors on social media, read books to learn better ways to write, and remember that it’s a journey.

The last step involves goal setting.

Take a day or two and set goals for yourself. Short term and long-term benchmarks help keep your focus. Create a vision board and hang it up in your work space. Some days, you may feel discouraged. The goals and the vision board will keep you on track. They also serve the purpose of showing how far you’ve come. You can’t do everything right away, but you can work toward the endgame of publication.

If the pressure of the writer’s slam pushes on you today, don’t despair. Keep moving, praying, and most of all, keep writing! You’ll make it through.

Jill Chapman resides in Southern Indiana with her husband of forty-four years. They enjoy their country lifestyle and visiting with their children and grandchildren. Her life centers around her family and her yellow lab, Indy. She is an avid movie watcher, loves Mexican food, and enjoys watercolor painting. Jill says her life is like a good plate of nachos, a tiny kick of spice, and a whole lotta cheese.

Categories
Writing for YA

How To Reclaim Writing Motivation

Slogging away for weeks, months, or years on a project can be discouraging. Writing requires self-discipline, but is that enough to power through? Maybe. But as with any long-term task, staying motivated is essential.

There are days when motivation remains elusive, no matter how much I try to buckle down.

I asked a few young adult authors what keeps them going when the task seems never ending.

What keeps me going is knowing that not all teen readers are interested in fantasy. Some are looking for other types of stories, like the historical novels I write. Readers should have options the way I did as a teen.

Stephanie Daniels ~ Historical Young Adult Author

Without a doubt the weekly meeting with my crit group helps keep me creatively energized. I know I need to sub something. Even when I don’t feel like writing, I’m the type of person that doesn’t want to let anybody down. I take that seriously and it keeps me—if not on track—at least moving forward.

Stephanie Daniels ~ Historical Young Adult Author

I can’t NOT write. It is has been a part of my creative makeup since I was a young teen. I would write stories even if there were no motivation for me to publish them. Of course I stumble into times of writers’ block or when life gets in the way. Discouragement, grief, stress… they’re all powerful anti-motivators to writing. Sometimes I must accept those challenges and give myself permission to take a break. When my mother was sick and subsequently passed, it was over a year before I could write again, and then I had to make a concerted effort to write… not wait for inspiration to strike.

Diana L. Sharples ~ Young Adult Contemporary Author

I’ve been writing for long enough that I know it’ll all come back when my head is in a better place. One trick I’ve found that usually works to get me past those bleak times is to remove myself from the environment causing the stress. A restaurant, coffee shop, library, or a picnic table in a park will usually help me to get back into my creative space.

Diana L. Sharples ~ Young Adult Contemporary Author

I’ve always wanted to be an author, so what motivates me to keep writing is knowing that I’m pursuing my dream and that I’m getting to do the thing that I love every day. I also think about how there are people out there that I can hopefully encourage and inspire with my stories. That motivates me to keep writing, knowing that readers will read my books and that those books will speak to them the same way that other books have spoken to me in the past.

Melody Personette ~ Young Adult Contemporary Fantasy and Science Fiction

Outside stressors and internal doubts can be motivation zappers. Periodically, I have to remind myself of my original goal, why I’m writing and who I’m writing for. I want my words to comfort and help.

If my stories can do that for the people they were intended for, I’ve done my job and honored my calling.

Until I get my words in print, I’ll keep striving toward the goal with these things in mind.

Donna Jo Stone writes YA contemporary novels about tough issues but always ends the stories with a note of hope. She blogs at donnajostone.com.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

Let’s Get Serious (For Once)

lighter look at a writer's life

I hope you, loyal readers of Almost An Author, will bear with me as I get serious this month.

I know it’s a big change. I’m not the most serious person in the world, either in person or on paper (on screen, for you techie people). I love to laugh and to make people laugh. Things are just different this month.

Right after I submitted last month’s blog post at the end of July, my region of Eastern Kentucky was hit with a devastating flood. The immediate area where I currently live was spared, but the neighboring county, where I grew up and where many family and friends live, got hit extremely hard.

People are calling it a 1,000-year flood. I call it a tragedy of epic proportions.

Lives were lost. Homes, businesses, and vehicles were washed away in a blink of an eye. Many schools were heavily damaged or outright destroyed. My college has a campus in the affected area, and one of our buildings was ravaged by the waters.

I have seen decimated places that I never, in my lifetime, thought would ever flood. I have driven by schools that were once vibrant places of learning but are now in ruins, with destroyed desks and equipment piled up in a muddy mess. At least one public library, a relatively new facility, was practically wiped out.

My heart goes out to these people—MY people.

My “teacher heart” aches for my fellow educators who had their classrooms decorated, stocked, and ready for students. Many now have no idea when they will be back in their schools and how they will replace what is lost. I could go on and on.

I know readers of this blog are more than “almost authors.” You are true writers, actual authors, and good, compassionate people. I treasure this community, as I do my hurting community back home.

As for a call to action, I ask, if you are a praying person, that you pray for these people and communities who have experienced unspeakable losses. God knows the situation, and He will restore . . . in His way, in His timing.

There are collection drives for books and supplies to restock schools and libraries in the affected areas. If you are so led to help, feel free to contact me at carltonwhughes@gmail.com, and I can connect you with the right organizations. Please do not feel obligated—only if you want to help.

Bubbly, funny Carlton will return next month. Stay tuned.

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

What Do You Write?

lighter look at a writer's life

It’s almost SWCS, or Summer Writers Conference Season, for those of you who don’t know. I attended my first writers conference years ago and have attended many of them since. At that first one, I learned something right away.

When you sit down next to anyone at a writers conference, there will always be a basic first question.  You might think it would be, “What is your name?” Not so, because you’re most likely going to be wearing some form of ungainly nametag, so that information will be clear.

No, the first question will be: “What do you write?”

I have been asked that question when I sat down for meals, classes, and for a break outside. New friends, old friends, famous authors, and not-so-famous authors have inquired this information from me. I have probably even been asked this question in the bathroom, although I don’t remember a specific instance (Plus, men’s rooms at writers conference tend to be less populated than ladies rooms).

Last year, I taught at the virtual Kentucky Christian Writers Conference, and I was amazed at the discussions in the chat feature. Attendees interacted much as they would have at a live conference, and people still constantly asked . . . you got it . . . “What do you write?”

As I gear up to attend such events this year (one virtual, one live), I have thought of some creative, off-the-wall answers to the classic question, just to spice things up a bit. So here goes.

“What do you write?”…

“Feline nonfiction novels.”

“Amish speculative fiction. Watch out, Martha, there’s something in the butter!”

Look around suspiciously and whisper, “I can’t talk about it in public.”

“Your Best Quarantine Life Now: Changing Your Pajama Pants More Than Twice a Week.”

“Amish romantic suspense. Watch thy back, Levi.”

“A new devotional book, 365 Days with Teenagers. 100 stories about sleeping in, 100 stories about not cleaning your room, 100 stories about junk food. I don’t know about the other 65—I’ll do that tomorrow. Or someday.”

“A Quarantine Cookbook: Making Meals Out of Butter Crackers, Cheese, Peanut Butter, and Old Chocolate Chips Found in the Cabinet.”

“Amish Dystopian Teenage Romance: No Hunger Games with MY Bread, Sarah.”

“I don’t want to tell, because I’m afraid someone will steal my idea. But I have printed out my work in three hardback notebooks and have them with me.”

Hopefully you can tell my tongue is firmly in my cheek. On a serious note, if you do attend a writers conference and are asked this question, be yourself and talk confidently about your work.

Martha and Levi would not want it any other way.

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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Magazine and Freelance

The Value of a “Write Away”

I have a good friend who often says, “I’m going to be gone this week to a “write away.”

What you may ask is a “write away?” Simply put it is a time set aside where you go somewhere and write away (in more ways than one)! During these time of staying at home and social distancing, most of us need a write away more than ever.

When you are in a writing slump and can’t seem to get the words flowing, maybe you need a change of scenery and routine. For these times, that may mean changing your writing space in your home so you have a view out of a different window as you write, parking the car by a lake and spending a few hours writing, or finding a quiet outside location near your home to write. Look for an uncrowded park that is open and “camp out” there.

You may be thinking to yourself—That’s fine for you but I don’t have a lot of places to go nearby. The good news is you don’t have to. Here are a few other suggestions.

A friend of mine lives on a lake just a short drive from my house. She has a beautiful home with an entire glass wall in her living room. The view is calming, relaxing, and extremely conducive to creativity. This sweet friend has given me an open invitation to come to her house and write any time I need to have a write away. During this time of staying away from others, I can ask my friend if I can go sit on her dock and write all afternoon. I am not around people but my creativity has a chance to flow as it comes. Do you have a friend whose yard or dock you could visit for a write away?

Look for a friend who lives in the country and take a chair and small desk to sit and admire the countryside as you write. Most people won’t mind your coming and just hanging out in their yards.

If your library or church is open, you may be able to find an indoor spot to enjoy new surroundings and increased creativity

No matter what method you choose, the benefits of taking a break from your normal routine are great. Does your creativity need a jumpstart? Plan a “write away” today.

Linda Gilden is a wife, mother, and grandmother. Linda finds great joy (and lots of writing material) in time spent with her family and enjoys every opportunity for a short “write away.” Her favorite activity is floating in a pool with a good book surrounded by splashing children!

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The Intentional Writer

Are You “Almost” an Author?

The intentional writer

Do you identify yourself as an author? A writer?

If not, it’s time to start.

You are a writer if…

Do you write poems? Blog posts? Funny anecdotes for the church newsletter?  

Do you journal on a regular basis?

Do you assemble words into sentences and paragraphs for no other reason than because you enjoy doing it?

Do you have ideas and truths you attempt to communicate to others through some written medium?

If you answered yes to any of those questions then you are a writer. A writer is someone who writes. Simple as that.

“A professional writer is an amateur who didn’t quit.”

Richard Bach

You are an author if…

Have you written a book, article, or report? If so, then according to the dictionary you are an author.

Don’t believe me? Then consider this.

I was talking about Almost an Author with a faculty member at a writing conference. With a smile, she asked me if I considered myself only almost an author. Then she made an interesting comment about how we use the word author.

She said that published author is a commonly used term but no one ever says unpublished author. This implies that the word author does not necessarily mean a person has been published.

In other words, if you have completed a piece of writing, you are an author. Not almost an author. Not an aspiring author. Not an author imposter.

A real, honest-to-goodness author.

Do you feel like an imposter?

I know how you feel. I struggled for years with the idea that I wasn’t good enough or successful enough to call myself a writer. But one day a wiser and more experienced writer challenged me to have the courage to begin calling myself a writer.

So I did.

And you know what? Not one person accused me of being an imposter. (I did get a few odd looks, but that’s to be expected.)

More recently I went through the same struggle over calling myself an author. I have completed multiple novel manuscripts. I have been published in magazines. I have seen my scripts performed on the stage. And yet I was loathe to call myself an author.

No more!

Three steps to claiming the title of writer (or author)

  1. Internal. The first step is to begin thinking of yourself as a writer (or author). Claiming the title in your own head boosts your confidence and helps you take writing seriously. Until you are willing to think of yourself as a writer you will remain a dabbler—someone who has an excuse to quit at any time. Writers are intentional about writing. Writers mean business.
  2. Among friends. The second step is to call yourself a writer (or author) among your fellow writers. Claiming the title in public can be scary, so start with those who will understand and support you. Other writers understand what it means to call yourself a writer. They understand how long and difficult it is to get published. They will not ridicule you for calling yourself a writer. (If they do, it’s time to find different writer friends.)  
  3. In public. The final step is introducing yourself as a writer (or author) in public. Claiming the title of writer produces instant accountability. It implies you are actively writing. (So long as you are, you can claim the title with pride.) When you get to this step, be prepared to answer questions such as, “What do you write?” and “when will your novel be published?” You may also face skepticism or ridicule. Do not let this stop you from owning the title.

Are you ready to quit being almost an author? I hope so.

What was your biggest hurdle in referring to yourself as a writer? Let me know in the comments.

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.

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Writers Chat

Writers Chat Recap Featuring Movies About Writers and Tom Blubaugh

Writers Chat, hosted by Jean Wise, Johnnie Alexander, and Bethany Jett, is the show where we talk about all things writing, by writers and for writers!

“Because talking about writing is more fun than actually doing it.”

Movies and Books about Writers: Writers Chat Open Mic

The secret is out! Writers like their heroes and heroines to be writers, too! In our latest open mic, we share favorite books and movies featuring writers, including recent releases such as The Man Who Invented Christmas and Goodbye, Christopher Robin, and older faves such as Finding Forrester, The Man of La Mancha, and Midnight in Paris. See if some of your favorites made the list.

Watch the July 31st replay.

Looking for new movies to add to your watch list? Discover more from the Show Notes and Live Chat discussion.

Show Notes and Live Chat Link

Authors Community with Tom Blubaugh

The journey to publication can be difficult without a good network of people behind you. Learn from CEO Tom Blubaugh how Authors Community can point you down the path that will take your writing from hobby to profession.

Check out the August 7th replay.

Tom Blubaugh is married to Barbara Holmes. They have six children and fourteen grandchildren. He spent his childhood in a small town in southeast KS.

Tom began writing poetry at age fourteen. He has written nonfiction most of his adult life.

Tom self-published Behind the Scenes of the Bus Ministry (1974); has written articles for denominational and business magazines (1975 – 1995); co-wrote The Great Adventure under contract for Barbour Publishing Co. (2009); wrote his first fiction Night of the Cossack–published by Bound by Faith Publishers (2011); and is a guest writer in several books. He has been a public speaker for 40 years.

Tom was a self-employed financial planner (1973 – 1995).  He is the past president and a past board of director’s member of Jericho Commission, Inc.; is the past chaplain of the Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 952, in Springfield, MO; and is the past manager/moderator of the Google+ Christian Authors Community; CEO of Common Sense Marketing Strategies LLC, Tom Blubaugh Literary Strategist LLC, Authors Community, eBookChristian.com and Genesis Project International. He ministers to the homeless and addicts through his life experiences and blog articles.

Learn more from Tom and Authors Community via the Show Notes and Live Chat Links.

Show Notes and Live Chat Link

JOIN US!

Writers Chat is hosted live each Tuesday for an hour starting at 10 AM CT / 11 AM ET on Zoom. The permanent Zoom room link is: zoom.us/j/4074198133.

Participants mute their audio and video during the filming, then we open
the room for anyone who wishes to participate with our guests. The “After Party” is fifteen-minutes of off-the-record sharing and conversation.

Additionally, you can grow your network and add to the conversation by joining our Writers Chat Facebook Group.

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Dear Young Scribes

Tips for Surviving the 6 Seasons of a Writer’s Life

If you’ve been in the industry long enough then you probably know by now that the writer’s life is unpredictable, and your path will never look identical to that of another writer’s.

 

Writing is like no other profession. There doesn’t seem to be a typical day’s work because our daily work shifts as the seasons change.

 

Although there are surprises—both good and bad—along the path to publication, the writer’s life can be categorized into 6 seasons…

 

  1. Writing Season. 

 

Tips for survival:

 

Stock up on writing fuel! This may include chocolate, herbal tea, sunflower seeds, trail mix, coffee, etc. Also, when you’re deep into writing, it can often become easy to ignore the outside world. Yet if you want to lead a healthy lifestyle then it’s important to stay balanced. Prioritize your responsibilities. Join a writer’s group for feedback and fellowship. Keep God and family first. Make time for socialization and relaxation. Most importantly, seek God before every writing session and watch to see how the Holy Spirit helps you churn out those words.

 

  1. Submission Season.

 

Tips for survival:

 

Prepare yourself for rejection. Keep a strong backbone for criticism, and allow the criticism to make you into a better writer. Seek support from friends and family members when you start to have writing doubts and are tempted to give up. Write down your writing career vision and greatest dream on a post-it note and stick it on your desk. Keep a running list of encouragement you receive on your writing, whether it’s from those you love, members of your writer’s group, or a writing professional. Take this list out every time you feel beaten down by rejections and critiques.

 

  1. Waiting Season.

 

Tips for survival:

 

Prayer! Waiting seasons are the best opportunity to seek God’s will for your writing career, to ask Him to open the doors that need to be open and close the doors that need to be closed. Only He knows the paths you should take. Pray that others will be touched by your words and that you’ll have the patience to wait on His timing. Trust that He’s in control of your writing dream. Meanwhile, don’t hesitate to start working on your next project!

 

  1. Celebration Season.

 

Tips for survival:

 

Of course, it’s not difficult to survive during a time of celebration! 😉 This is the high point of the writing career—when you receive a contract from an agent or publisher. Take advantage of it! When you reach this season, reward yourself for your hard work. You deserve it! Go to your favorite coffee shop or restaurant. Take time to relax and watch your favorite movie. Meanwhile, keep a good head on your shoulders by staying humble. Make sure God receives the glory He deserves for opening this door. Involve Him in on the process; He wants to celebrate with you, too!

 

  1. Editing Season.

 

Tips for survival:

 

It can be tough to overhaul your manuscript to meet the needs of an agent or publisher. However, it’s important to remember that they’re the professionals in this industry. They ultimately know what sells. During this editing process, keep the big picture in mind: Your book isn’t getting ruined during surgery; instead, it’s getting better and stronger. It’ll improve. During this process, detach your heart from the project—as hard as it might be—and try to view it under a critical eye. Sure, it might seem a bit messy during the surgery. But what surgery isn’t messy? It may seem like it’s been ripped to shreds, but rest assured, it will be put back together again. The end result will be worth the pain and torture, and ultimately the manuscript will look much better than it did before the procedure.

 

  1. Promotion Season.

 

Tips for survival: 

 

Keep a good head on your shoulders during the promotion. For many introverts, it might be hard to promote yourself. But keep in mind that it’s vital if you want to make a living from writing and if you want the book to sell. Remember: You aren’t promoting yourself; you’re promoting your product and the message you stand for. What is it that you stand for? How can you get others involved to help you share this same message? God gave you this message for a reason, and it can’t get into the hands of other people unless you promote! Yet promotion can often become draining, especially for us introverts. Make sure to carve out time to feed your creativity as well—whether that comes through brainstorming your next book, reading, working on a craft, going to an art museum, etc.

 

  1. Repeat!

 

Tips for survival: 

 

There is no destination in the writing journey. It’s a cycle of the above steps—so once you receive your dream-come-true, it’ll be time to dream another dream and create another goal (for example: “hit the best-seller list”) and so on.

 

The journey is exciting, though, don’t you think? The anticipation, the development of original idea to final product and then the dream-come-true stages that evolve. Even the difficult seasons—such as rejection and waiting—are worth it, because it’s through this process that we become pruned and prepared for what awaits us on the horizon.

 

Yet it’s during those peak moments of the writers’ life that makes all of those rough seasons worth it in the end.

 

[bctt tweet=”Tips for Surviving the 6 Seasons of a Writer’s Life #writerslife #amwriting @TessaEmilyHall” username=””]

 

What’s your favorite season of the writer’s life? What season are you currently in? What tips would you like to add?

Categories
Dear Young Scribes

Is the Writing Journey Worth It?

When I was a fifteen-year-old aspiring author, I emailed a bestselling author asking for writing advice. What she told me was not what I had expected to hear.

 

First, she told me to analyze my true intentions behind writing. If my pursuit for publication wasn’t fueled by a burning passion to write, or if I was interested in a field other than writing, then she advised that I re-think my dream of becoming an author. It’s not as glamorous as it looks, I remember her telling me via email.

 

Now that I’m seven years into my writing journey, I’ve experienced firsthand this “non-glamorous” writing life. Rejections. Isolation. Hours of hard work with sometimes little to show for it. I’ve often found myself rethinking the “warning” that bestselling author gave me and wondering if this is the best route to take.

 

As you begin to venture into the new year, you, too, might be re-evaluating your writing dreams and progress thus far. You might be asking yourself the same question … Is this writing journey really worth it?

 

I think, just like that best-selling author had told me, it comes down to your true intentions behind the pursuit for publication. Are you writing because you hope to become a rich? Or famous? Do you write so that your pride can be fed when you some day see your name on the cover of your book? If any of these are the reasons why you write – then I hate to break it to you, but no, the writing journey probably won’t be worth it for you. Because you’ll be faced with disappointments. Lots of it. And you’ll soon realize that being an author is nothing like what you had imagined.

 

But what if your true intention behind pursuing publication is because you can’t not write? Because the dream of being an author is one that you simply can’t ignore?

 

If that’s the case, then yes, the writing journey is worth it. It’s worth the hard work. Rejections. Isolation. The perks of being an author far outweigh the downsides, in my opinion.

 

What is it that makes the writing journey worth it for me?

 

The pure joy that comes from writing stories and hearing from readers. Networking with other writers through social media, conferences, groups, etc. The open doors. Contributing to the writing community through blogging and mentoring teen writers. Witnessing this dream coming to pass – even if it might not be exactly how it was initially envisioned.

 

If you’re an aspiring author, I want to leave you with the same warning that the bestselling author gave me when I was fifteen: The writing life isn’t as glamorous as it may look. And no, it’s not going to be worth it if your expectations are unrealistic and your motivation isn’t rooted in a passion for the written word.

 

Because, yes, the writing life is unpredictable. There are high points and low points, just as there is with any profession. Sacrifices will be made. Dreams will be shattered. There will come times when you, again, will return to these questions: Why am I doing this? Is it even worth my time?

 

Yet I’ve discovered that this will be the case in any profession that I choose. Personally, if I’m going to be working hard and pouring my energy into a certain field, I’d much prefer to choose a career that I’m actually interested in. That alone will be the pay off for me. Life is too short to neglect this burning passion I have to convert words into stories that come to life in the imagination of others.

 

That in itself – spending my short time on earth pursuing this passion – will make my writing journey worthwhile.

 

 

[bctt tweet=”Is the Writing Journey Worth It? #writerslife #amwriting @TessaEmilyHall” username=””]

Categories
Dear Young Scribes

5 Qualities Every Serious Writer Needs to Possess

The writing journey is not a smooth, easy ride. There will be setbacks, failures, doubts, and frustrations along the way to achieving your dream. Yet I believe that, with the right attitude and right approach, this journey can not only become bearable, but enjoyable for the aspiring author.

Here are five qualities every serious writer should possess before heading out on their journey:

           

            1. Humility

This is the single most important trait a writer should have. Why? Because it’s the foundation to all of the other qualities on this list. You can’t maintain the right attitude throughout your writing journey if you lack humility.

Writers need this trait for the following reasons . . .

  • So we can accept criticism and make our manuscript stronger
  • So we can understand that there will always be room to prove
  • So we can support other authors and give them the help they need in their own journey
  • So we can be an easy client for agents and editors to work with
  • So our head doesn’t swell when we receive positive feedback and reviews

            2.  Patience

One of the reasons why I wanted to begin my writing journey at 16-years-old was because I knew the publication process wouldn’t be quick. Every stage of the journey takes time — writing the manuscript, growing as a writer, building a platform, revision/editing, submission process, contract process, publication process, marketing, etc. And when there’s a dream that’s heavy on your heart, each stage seems much longer than it actually is.

The writing journey is just that: A journey. Although there are milestones along the way, I don’t truly believe the career novelist should have a “finish line”. Every milestone is an opportunity for celebration and a reminder that you’re closer to your Publication Dream. Aspiring authors especially need this trait so they don’t enter the journey with false expectations and give up when the process takes longer than they imagined.

            3. Generosity

Which writer do you believe leaves the best impression — the arrogant, haughty writer who is only in the business to achieve his/her own dreams? Or the writer who seeks to serve readers and fellow writers? The writing community is close-knit, and most of us are more than willing to share knowledge that we believe will help other writers. (This is why there are so many writing-related blog and books on the craft.) Don’t be that one writer who hoards their knowledge and seeks to gain help and info without ever giving back to the writing community. Most authors do not publish a book without the help of multiple other people (that’s why there are acknowledgements in the backs of books!). If you’ve reached where you are today because someone took the time to help you, don’t forget to return the favor — even if it’s not to the same person who helped you. What goes around will certainly come around!

            4. Selflessness

How can you be generous if you’re only focused on your own growth as a writer? Or how can you remain humble if your Ultimate Goal as an author has to do with “me, me, me”? It’s possible for the aspiring author to chase their dream (publication) and remain selfless in the process.

I advise re-evaluating the reason(s) you write and the Ultimate Goal for your writing journey. Is it to gain success and see your name in print? Or do you hope to offer stories that will provide entertainment for readers, shed light on a certain topic, minister to readers, etc.?

Again: The author who makes a lasting impression and gains the most popularity amongst readers is the one who not only writes great stories, but one who stays focused on others as well. This is the author who wants to connect with their readers. This is the author who will promote other books within their genre because in doing they’ll support their Ultimate Goal as an author: To introduce entertaining stories to readers.

            5. Self-confidence

(No, being selfless and having self-confidence is not an oxymoron!) I’ve noticed that, if a writer neglects to have confidence in their ability to write, they don’t get far in this journey. They’ll quit as soon as someone criticizes their work. If you truly want to reach publication, you’re going to have to start believing in yourself — and that will involve believing in your potential even if no one else does. Just because your writing isn’t perfect now doesn’t mean it can’t improve. And just because your story might have plot-holes doesn’t mean it’s too late to fix them. These are only obstacles to overcome, not Dead End signs. Every published author, I’m sure, has struggled with self-doubt at one point or another. But just because you don’t write in the same style as your favorite author doesn’t mean you can’t write.

Every writer has a unique style. Every writer has a unique calling for their publication journey. Focus on your own strengths, accomplishments, and purpose as a writer, and don’t allow yourself to compare yourself to others. Those writers have already been taken! Instead, be the best version of yourself that you can be. Keep growing in your craft, and write stories that you feel called to write and in the best way you know how.

Your future readers will some day thank you for not giving up!

[bctt tweet=”5 Qualities Every Serious Writer Needs to Possess #writerslife #amwriting @TessaEmilyHall” username=””]

– – –

Which quality on this list is hardest for you to attain? Are there any you’d like to add to this list? Let me know in the comments! 

Categories
Dear Young Scribes

Pros & Cons of Signing with a Small Press

I was sixteen when I attended my first writing conference. My goal wasn’t to find a publisher; in fact, I didn’t think there were any publishers at the conference who were acquiring YA fiction. Because of this, I chose to fill my appointment time slots with meeting authors and an editor over a teen devotion website. It was during this appointment that the acquisitions editor for Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas (LPC) overheard I wrote YA fiction and requested to see the first chapter of my MS.

After reading the chapter and asking me questions about the story, he then requested that I send him the full MS. A few months later, LPC offered me a contract.

Of course, I was ecstatic at his request. But I was also a newbie in the industry. How could I be sure that this company was legit?

I spent hours researching as much as I could about the publishing industry while polishing my manuscript. I soon discovered that the publisher, Eddie Jones, was highly respected. After several months of prayer (and several emails on my behalf apologizing for the wait), I finally signed the contract. And yes, I am very proud to say that my debut novel, Purple Moon, was published in 2013 by Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. (They have been an amazing company to work with!)

Now, my second YA novel, Unwritten Melody, will be released this November by Clean Reads.

I know there are probably several authors who might hesitate, just like I did, before they hand their baby over to a small press. That’s understandable. We do need to be careful about every decision we make in our writing career.

But I’ve realized that being published by a small press doesn’t have to be a “plan B” option. In my opinion, signing with a small press combines the benefits of both traditional and self-publishing. 


Here are some perks I’ve discovered that come with having your book published with a small to medium-sized publisher:

 

  1. They’re more likely to take chances on a new author. 

In 2010, when I attended the conference and met my publisher for Purple Moon, I was only five months into building my online presence. A bigger publisher probably wouldn’t have been willing to take the risk on signing with me, a newbie and teen writer at the time.

Building a platform is even more important now than it was then. From what I’ve witnessed through my internship at Hartline Literary Agency this year, publishers rarely sign with an author who doesn’t already have a readership — regardless of how talented the writer is. It’s too difficult for them to sell books by debut authors, and since they only allow a certain number of publishing slots to be filled per year, the author may be competing against well-known and established authors. Smaller publishers, on the other hand, seem to be more flexible when it comes to signing new authors.

 

  1. They’re willing to take chances in specific genres.

As a writer, there’s nothing more frustrating than pouring hours into writing your book — and then realizing there are no current publishers who are acquiring your genre. This is how I’ve felt the past few years about the Christian YA market. Bigger publishers haven’t had much success in this genre recently; thus, they aren’t seeking to take on many (if any) YACF projects. Again, smaller publishers have more flexibility in this area.

 

  1. Smaller presses usually offer larger royalty percentages.

Since small to medium-sized publishers can’t always offer an advance, the author’s royalty percentages tend to be higher. This also means that the authors don’t have to stress about paying out their advance.

In a larger house, it’s much more difficult for an author to stand out in the crowded market, sell the amount of copies that will please their publisher, and then have another contract offered.

 

  1. Smaller presses offer more freedom and flexibility.

Many of the smaller publishing houses welcome the author’s input when it comes to designing the book cover. Authors do have a say in a larger house as well, but more often, small companies are more likely to meet what the author had envisioned and welcome their feedback in the process. (The cover designer, however, still has the final say in this area.)

 

  1. Smaller presses tend to have faster release dates.

When an author signs with a large house, they can expect to wait 1 – 2 years minimum for the book’s release. Of course, that allows plenty enough time for editing and marketing. But smaller presses are sometimes able to release the book within the same year, if all goes according to plan.

 

  1. Many small publishers don’t require submissions from agented authors only.

LPC contracts authors they meet at conferences, or they’ll sign with books submitted by the agent. However, the majority of small/medium-sized publishers — including Clean Reads, White Fire Publishing, Ambassador International, Entangled Publishing, etc. — are open to un-agented submissions. This, of course, means that the author doesn’t have to split their royalty checks.

 

If you’re trying to decide between seeking a contract with a large publisher or a small/medium-sized publisher, here are some disadvantages to small press publishing that might help provide the complete spectrum: 

 

  1. Low (or zero) marketing budget.

Many small publishers do not have a marketing budget, and they typically don’t assign a publicist for their authors. Then again, the majority of book marketing these days falls on the shoulders of the author anyway. And that’s not to say that the publisher might aid in the author’s marketing in other ways. (Both LPC and Clean Reads provide their authors with plenty of help, advice, and tools that boost book sales.)

 

  1. Little to no advance. 

But as I mentioned earlier, no advance also means higher royalty percentage.

 

  1. Most bookstores prefer to sell books that are published by larger houses.

As much as I love bookstores, the truth is, they’re no longer the most popular place for readers to find authors. The majority of book sales are usually driven by online marketing efforts and sales that are generated through e-copies of the book.

 

  1. In some small houses, the cover art isn’t as quality as a larger publisher’s book covers.

This is usually due to low budget. I can’t personally vouch for this, since the covers at LPC and Clean Reads are top-notch.

 

If you’re considering trusting your book into to hands of a small publisher, I recommend that you spend the necessary amount of time doing research, praying, and weighing pros and cons. Every writer’s publishing journey is different. The great thing about today’s writing industry is that there are a variety of publishing options available to the aspiring author. Choose the direction that best fits your vision as an author and the publishing model that you believe will further your career the most.

 

If you were to be offered a contract from a smaller publisher, would you accept it? Or would you prefer to wait for a potential contract with a larger house instead?

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
A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

Hurry! I Need Patience!

Don’t you love lessons in patience?

Me, neither.

Patience doesn’t come easy for me, so, when I became a Christian over 17 years ago, God began teaching me . . . I just wish He’d hurry!

Today seemed like Finals Week in His lesson plan.

First, I went to a fast food restaurant to get my wife some breakfast. They gave me a number, 141, and I watched as numbers passed me by . . . 142 . . . 143 . . . 148. As we got closer to 150, I got worried.

Next, I stopped at a popular retail store to get a key made for my son’s new car. I walked to the key counter at the back of the store, got the key made relatively easily, and walked back outside to try it. Of course, it didn’t work, so I made my way back inside and to the back of the store to the counter, where a man was purchasing a fishing license and supplies. He made Tim Conway’s “old man” character from the Carol Burnett Show look like the Flash.

When it was finally my turn, the lady examined the key, realized the wrong mold had been used and they were out of the one I needed.

I had to go back up front to the returns counter for a refund, and a long, slow-moving line awaited me there.

I returned home to do my son’s laundry from tennis camp. I had kept his bag closed all night because . . . well, you can imagine.

I worked up my courage, opened the bag, loaded the clothes and turned on the washer. Nothing happened. Turns out, my neighborhood was experiencing a water outage.

Due to this outage, I had to go to another local restaurant to get supper. After waiting for an interminable time, I got my food, but the order was wrong. More waiting.

Days like these make me want to drop out of “Patience 101,” but, unfortunately, it’s a required course.

Writing and publishing are a major part of this learning experience. I write, I submit, I wait. I get a rejection, I try again. And on and on.

Sometimes I have to step back and remember why I do what I do. It was God Who planted this dream of writing and publishing in my heart, and it is God Who will see it come to fruition, in His time and in His way.

But, man, I wish He’d hurry!

[bctt tweet=”Don’t you love lessons in patience? #writer @amwriting” via=”no”]

[bctt tweet=” I write, I submit, I wait. I get a rejection, I try again. #writerslife #author” via=”no”]