The Hardest Part About Writing

Why is Liverpool Rejoicing at Thatche... How to Deal with Writers Block

The Hardest Part About Writing

For any seasoned writer, let alone an aspiring one, the actual process of putting words onto paper or a screen of a laptop or PC can be frustrating. Harder still is writing words that are good, make great reading and flow with natural rhythm and style. But like anything else, the answer lies in practice, practice and more practice.

Over the years I’ve written thousands of articles, blogs, magazine features and sales literature as a copywriter. It has got to the point, that the minute I sit at my laptop, regardless of where I am, who is with me or what’s happening around me, I simply write. Without realising it, I acquired a Habit, one which has embedded itself so deep into my subconscious that it has become automatic, just like driving a car. I’ve not only trained my mind to sit and write, but as soon as I’m commissioned to write something, my brain has already formulated the angle, told me what statistics and research I need….and all that in a split second.

However when it comes to writing fiction it’s completely different. As a copywriter, I just need an angle, some facts and arrange them in engaging sentences and phrases. Writing fiction is another thing completely. Why? Because it requires imagination and a different type of inspiration. But still it should require the same process, Habit. So how do you acquire a writing habit.

Write everyday, even if it’s only a page. If you write fiction, try writing a diary in third person in the style of a fiction writer describing the mood, showing instead of telling.
Read as much as you can, especially good literature, preferably in the genre you plan to write for. If you’re reading something that doesn’t capture your imagination, ask yourself what is wrong with the writing style and commit it to memory so you don’t make the same mistake.
Throughout the everyday things in life when your thinking about shopping, work, household chores or doing something boring, practice writing fiction in your mind. As you go about your task, think in your mind how you would write a passage describing that task.

For example;

‘The cold wooden floor felt rough against her bare feet as she swung out of bed. Reaching for her robe, her fingers brushed his skin as he slept beside her, his warmth a reminder of the security of her bed. Looking at the neon numbers on her clock, time was not on her side, and with steely resolution she made her way to the bathroom, she would not be late for work today.’
Set yourself word targets. I make myself do 1,600 words everyday, even if most of them are rubbish. Sooner or later, the habit kicks in, and you’ll find one day most words work well. It’s only a couple of hours, not a lot when you think about it – it all depends on how serious you are and how committed you are to writing.
If you’re embarking on a long term project such as a novel, make sure it’s a story you feel passionate about, that holds your interest. The biggest mistake is to undertake something and find your interest waning.

Above all else, keep the momentum going, get into that habit, so that eventually, you will HAVE to write and it will seem like second nature:)