Hey! How are you doing this week? Are you getting back into the swing of things now that the kids are back in school? Can you believe that 2007 is almost over? It seems like it was Christmas just yesterday, and now it’s almost Christmas time again!

Writing is a hard job. You have to take the time to commit yourself to just sitting down and jotting your thoughts onto paper. Anyone who has experienced writer’s block can vouch that this career is definitely not for everyone! But if you’re one of the few who has the ability to write, then maybe you need some tips on getting started.

1. Set aside at least an hour each day to just sit and write. It doesn’t matter what you write. Just get the creative juices flowing. I have mentioned before that Roald Dahl, renowned children’s author of books such as The BFG, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and Matilda, would set aside time each day to just sit and write about what he saw. As a result, he wrote many wonderful books that were created from things he noticed in his own yard.

2. Write about what you know. If you’ve never been to Europe, don’t try to write a book based on that culture (unless you plan on doing a lot of research!) Instead, write about things that are happening in your own neighborhood and add your own creative elements. Go to the mall and just observe people walking by. Everyone has a story, and you can usually create your own based on what you see people doing or wearing.

3. Don’t edit yourself. This is something I catch myself doing often. Just write your story. Once you’re done, then you can go back and do the rewrite. For now, just get your ideas down on paper. They don’t have to be perfect. After all, you’re the only one who is going to be reading them at this point in the game.

If you’re still having writer’s block, change your surroundings and try something new. You never know who or what will show up or what kind of story may develop.

To your success,

Katie