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| Susan Stilwell |
New writers face many challenges, not the least of which is
discipline. Seasoned writers testify to the importance of “BIC” time, or “butt
in chair” but it’s one of the hardest things for new writers to develop. These
tips can help you not only be more disciplined, but also be more proficient.
Schedule Time To
Write
There’s no substitute for blocking off time to write. Many
writing instructors recommend you to write every single day. Others suggest
taking periodic breaks. Decide what works best for you and then schedule your
writing time.
You may have days where you’re super-inspired and
fully-engaged in “writer mode,” where you sit down and crank out a couple
thousand words in one setting. Take advantage of those because you’ll have
plenty of days where you’re not. On
those days, start in “editing mode.”
Edit Something Old
Instead of racking your brain to create something new, start
with something old. Pull out a draft or an old piece and see if you can breathe
new life into it. Read it aloud and start editing it.
Be ruthless. Delete dull or rambling passages. Pay attention
to metaphors. Rework clichés. I find editing jump-starts my brain and puts me
in a better frame of mind to -
Free Write
After you’ve spent time editing, write something new. Don’t
worry about editing; just write. Save it, print a copy and stick it in a
folder. Plan to come back to it in a couple of days as you start the process
over again.
Even if you just write for one hour three days a week, think
of the material you’ll acquire in a month! Another thing you’ll acquire?
Discipline.
Butt In Chair. There’s no substitute.
Dora here. Scheduling time to write is key for me, along with setting a word count goal.
What about you? Is "BIC" easy for you or do you struggle with self-discipline?
Willing to share what works for you?
Susan Stilwell is a freelance writer, motivational speaker
and Bible study leader who loves discovering God at work the ordinary,
day-to-day stuff of life. Passionate about God’s Word, she’s a prolific devotional
writer and a popular guest blogger. She and her husband Steve enjoy their empty
nest in the beautiful mountains of southwest Virginia.
You can connect with Susan on Twitter at @susanrstilwell and on her
website, www.susanstilwell.com
