I think 90% of people have “writing a book” somewhere in their bucket list goals (totally made that statistic up, as most people make up their own statistics anyways).
I’ve done my share of research on the topic. I’ve read several books on voice, tone, plot, characters. I am also a 5th grade teacher and I believe I’ve become a better creative writer/teacher after I taught my students the theories, however the biggest lesson was the one I learned from the little ones. They’ve brought creativity back into my life.
I feel as we become more logical we lose part of our creativity. Writing is a creative force, therefore a more spontaneous part of our lives that we have to constantly remind ourselves of.
Here are 5 tips I’ve learned from my students in the course of 5 years.
– Tip #1: Believe in what you write. No matter what, each one of us have already found our voices. It is there and you know it! Believe in your voice. IF you like what you read, others will too.
– Tip #2: Editing: Write, it doesn’t have to be perfect. If you never have drafts you will never go through the writing process. Write, write, write, edit later. Many times I’ve delayed the writing process for fear of my mistakes. It is ok to make mistakes, it is not ok not to try.
– Tip #3: Find an audience: It is so much fun to write for an audience. My students love to share their writing either through reading out loud or since the introduction of google classroom through file sharing. As an adult I love my blog. It may not be perfect. However, it is my way of sharing my writing with others. At the end of the day even a negative comment means you caught someone’s attention for a few minutes.
-Tip #4: Allow feedback to fuel your fire: Which leads to lesson 4. Feedback is important. It is how we grow. English is not my first language. Sometimes I make silly mistakes, but every mistake teaches me a new rule in the english language. I can learn with every mistake. If you have something to teach me then I am all ears. It should be like that with your writing. Feedback will help you grow.
-Tip #5: Be consistent: My students write for 30 minutes every morning. In the beginning of the year the see this time as a chore. As the year progress it becomes a habit. Healthy habits will help you become successful.
Bonus tip: Surround yourself with encouraging people who will believe in you, that will help you edit, be your audience, give you advice and ensure that you are being consistent. I love my friends that support me in this mission (April and Karen).
I hope these tips will help you become excited about writing again.
If you are interested in creating a blog I will definitely recommend Blue Host. They are awesome. I can help you if you need help. Also, if you use the link below I will receive a commission too! How cool is that? I can help you and make money too!!!
Connect with me:
Twitter: @sophiajamesedu
Instagram: @SophiaJamesEDU
Facebook: Sophia James Education
May you be inspired to take out the mighty pen and write today!
With Love,
Raquel
