Isn’t it funny how if you add the word “aspiring” to a noun, it suddenly becomes a lot more hopeful? With the word “aspiring”, there’s still room for mistakes and growth and bad drafts; in fact, all of that is encouraged. There’s little expectations beyond that of actually writing (a task which seems to evade both aspiring and veteran writers). But it’s not without its limitations as well. Getting your start as an aspiring writer is almost impossible and it can be hard to keep your spirits up and the creativity flowing. So here’s five tips that I’ve found helpful. Hopefully, you do too.
1. Write when you want, not when you should.
This advice won’t be for everyone but it’s a rule I live by. Writing is something that makes me happy. Doing it on an unnatural schedule would make it a chore. I respect it by not making it a requirement.
2. Keep a journal.
Now this advice isn’t new at all but if you pair with tip #1, I swear it’s a game changer. A journal can just be a place to let your thoughts and feelings out without needing to create something. Like taking a bike out for a lap when you’ve haven’t biked in months. It’s a way to wake up that part of you that might have been forgotten about due to life’s chaos.
3. If you read a magazine/journal, submit to it!
There are so many wonderful publications out there and they could really use contributors. Whether it’s big or small, fiction or non-fiction, submit to it. The worst that can happen is that they now know you love their publication.
4. If you share something, offer context.
Having a second pair of eyes on your latest piece of work is great but not everyone feels the way you might feel about your draft. If it’s something you hold close to your heart, tell your reader that so they know how to give considerate feedback.
5. READ!
The best way to get better at writing (without writing at all) is by reading! By connecting with the reader in you, you’ll connect better with the writer in you as well. Every writer needs inspiration and seeing other stories can be just that.
Chelsea Kowalski is a reader, writer, and editor. She has edited both fiction and non-fiction pieces for magazines, novels, and published essays. Chelsea is an alumna from both the University of Toronto and Toronto Metropolitan University, completing programs in English, Creative Writing, and Publishing. She is passionate about all things literary (especially female-driven books) and loves interviewing new authors about their unique stories. Chelsea is happiest when given the chance to write, edit, and help support someone’s dream of reaching readers.
The views and opinions expressed in blog posts are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of all WiT members.
Writers In Trees 