Writing MeMe

I’ve been tagged at In Search of Dessert (which was tagged at Bleeding Espresso) for a writing meme about 5 of my strengths as a writer and 5 pieces of writing advice.

Without further ado, 5 of my strengths as a writer:

1. I’m committed. I write every single day whether I’m happy, sad, healthy, ill, energetic, or apathetic.

2. I’m a reader. I truly believe that every writer is a reader, and I read for at least an hour every day as well. Newspapers, magazines, books, journals, plays, reports – you name it, I read it. And then I think of a way to use it in an article.

3. I’m punctual. In fact, I’m early for 95% of my deadlines and on time for the other 5%. Never, ever underestimate the power of meeting a deadline or giving your editor some extra breathing room.

4. I always write for the publication. I use house style, I use the prevalent tone, I pitch articles specifically for the readers and I let the editors decide what fits and what doesn’t. This doesn’t mean I’m perfect, but it means that I try to fit the guidelines and instead of making them fit me. It saves a lot of hassle.

5. I enjoy myself. I write because I love to write, and I can’t wait to have the time to do even more. (33 days and counting!!!)

And five pieces of advice:

1. Don’t listen to the negativity. There are days when all I hear is how hard it is to get published. In my opinion, getting published is not what makes a writer. Writer’s write, so get started and give it your all.

2. Cultivate a network. I exchange tips, hints, websites, book reviews, market news, guidelines and more with a variety of other writers around the world. We all understand that writing is often a solitary endeavour, so having others that I can turn to is a blessing.

3. Don’t get caught up “protecting” markets or publications. It’s stupid, it’s a waste of time and energy, and if a market is out there others are going to find it no matter what you do. Have a little faith that your writing is good enough as it is, and not good enough simply because your editor doesn’t have anyone else to work with… yet.

4. Have faith. Whether it seems like it or not, with a lot of work and a little luck (and maybe a tiny bit of compromising) you’ll find a home for your project sooner or later.

5. Laugh. Cry. Yell. Curse. If you can’t summon any emotions about your writing, you shouldn’t be writing.

And if they’d like to join in, I’d love to hear what Riana, Novelist, Susan, Jenny and Hellojed have to say.