Reading, riting and ‘rithmetic, as the expression was first coined in the 1800s.
Writers also have to pay homage to The Three Rs. Plus, one more as well.
Most in the writing profession offer their formulae. Here are the A, B, Cs of mine:
Reading
If you want to make it as a writer, you need to read, read, read. And then read some more. There is nothing like reading all you can to “see” how to write, and to find your “voice.” And if you’re a writer, or a writer wannabe, then you have to love reading. So, this requirement should not be painful (apart from finding the time). If it is, then you should rethink your desire to be a writer.
Writing
You also have to write, write, write. And then write some more. When you think you have a work that is ready, it probably isn’t. Put it under your bed and forget about it for at least a month, which will give you more time to read. Then take it out and read it. And rewrite it again. You’ll be amazed at how much you’ll realize that what you thought was ready wasn’t. And how much better it’ll be the next time around. Repeat as necessary. It will get better each time. Speaking of which, all it takes is time.
Attend Writing Conferences
Networking is important in all professions and industries. But in writing especially, you just can’t build enough relationships and resources. Sometimes you just have to push yourself to do this. But if you do, you will find those who will respond. Certainly not all, but most writers feel a sense of community and a willingness, if not a desire, to give back, to help those who come after them to follow.
SM
No, I’m not referring to that SM, sadomasochism, but whatever floats your boat. I’m referring to social media. It’s not a panacea, but it will help immeasurably, whether you go the Traditional route or the Inde route. Or the mixed Hybrid route. There is no limit to the platforms out there, but Twitter and Facebook are undoubtedly the two best for authors, in that order. But the clear starting point is to establish your own website, and your own blog. All things social media must point back to your website, because that’s where you are, and hopefully your works too. Blog to help others, to tell others about you so they will want to read your books, but never to say “buy my book, buy my book.” Blogs don’t have to be long, and really shouldn’t be long. Just enough hopefully to offer some useful help. 250 to 500 words is ideal; 1,000 words is max (unless like someone I know you just can’t stop talking, and writing).
And so, this is hopefully the right place for me to end this blog. For another time, or times, Traditional vs Indie vs Hybrid and the ABC’s of Twitter and Facebook. Just thirty words over budget. 🙂
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