Keep on Writing

I got my writing in today.
Six words. I … got … my … writing … in … today.
 You don’t even need to say that sentence aloud. The sentence will run through your brain each day you carry out the task of writing.
Those words will feel good, give you satisfaction. If you put yourself in front of that keyboard every day and tap out words, you’ll find yourself developing a habit – a good habit – one that you’ll want to continue. That feeling of satisfaction will be part of your life.
Maybe you’re dealing with other stuff in your life, some of it not so pleasant, but you keep on with your writing because it’s a priority. So, you do. Few things in life are as satisfying as getting that work done every day.
Writing is a journey. The book you’re writing now or will soon be writing will be in the past. You’ll move on to other writing projects. Other stories flow out of you, other characters. You’ll grow older, have more experiences, perhaps have a different outlook on life.
You write some more. The years go by and you’ve written ten, twenty, thirty books. Think it’s impossible. Think again.
Just a thousand words a day. That’s seven thousand words a week. Thirty-thousand words a month. There’s a short novel right there. Many authors crank out multiple books a year, some of them driven by the demands of a readership eager to buy their books, perhaps a romance or mystery series.
Some people knock off entire books in a weekend. Yes. There are workshops and seminars out there to write entire books in just two days. I never tried it, but it’s something to consider.
Fast writing is natural writing, unencumbered by doubts and misstarts and too much thinking. It’s getting into the flow and letting it all go.
I believe it’s the best way to write.
But getting the writing done. That’s what’s important. Set your course and begin. Are you ready for the journey?
Maybe you need support. Find a mentor, someone who’s written books and been down the road. Join a writing group, talk to others who are writing books. Maybe you tried that and didn’t like the people in the group. They were snarky and hypercritical.
The hell with them. Join another group.
Support is a great thing for a writer. After all, writing can be lonely.
It’s likely you’re the only person in your circle of friends who wants to write a book. You may be the only one in your small town with dreams of being an author.
But that doesn’t mean it’s wrong, or silly, or some crazy phase you’re going through. Besides, who wants to be like everyone else? You’re a writer. With dreams and goals and a burning desire to create.
What more can I say?
Now get to it.