Writing, unlike many other professions, is a self-employed endeavor. This unique aspect of our craft necessitates cultivating writing accountability for self-discipline and productivity. Every day, the responsibility is solely yours. It would be best to find...
I am humbled to be a Guest of Honor at Bouchercon 2024 this week. So, in honor of all the wonderful authors I am meeting this weekend, I’ll share with you the common questions I’m getting from writers as I appear on panels, walk the halls, and generally interact with...
So, writer, you are your boss. And what is it that a boss might have that an employee who is told what to do every day might not have? Self-discipline. You must put your butt in the chair, as some say—every day. I'm getting asked many questions as we go through Killer...
When I started studying writing, I thought there were rules. There are not. There are good practices, but there are no rules. If you are following rules right now, they are holding you back. When I started writing, like the Greeks, I thought there was some Muse, some...
If you're aspiring to have a career where you write full-time, it's crucial to understand that it's not just about the writing itself. It would be best if you also grasped the business side of it. I aim to equip you with the knowledge to achieve that balance. To be a...
Time management is about prioritizing objectives over activities. Being busy isn’t the same as being productive. Successful time managers focus on their own goals, set clear priorities, and delegate tasks effectively. By seeing the big picture and structuring their time wisely, they achieve what truly matters.
Just as athletes train their bodies, writers must train their minds. By committing to daily mental exercises through reading and writing, you can boost creativity, sharpen focus, and enhance cognitive abilities in ways you never imagined.
The key to improving your writing isn’t just reading about it—it’s practicing every day. Just like honing any skill, writing takes perseverance, effort, and time. Keep writing, and your words will eventually match the vision in your mind.
Creativity is an organic, ever-evolving force that cannot be summoned on command. It emerges from a blend of internal insight, external influence, and the subconscious mind. Learn how to nurture creative expression in your writing.
Time is limited, and distractions are endless. Prioritize what truly matters—both in writing and in life. Focus on projects that align with your values, bring you joy, and make your writing meaningful.