What Every New Writer Should Know.

by Mary Ann

When I was about seven years old I wrote my first story. At 10 I was crafting poetry. And, at 12 I had co-written a play with a few classmates.

I knew I should be a writer. Yet, when I went to college, I didn’t study English or writing. Instead, I earned a degree in political science.

New Writer Rule No. 1: Trust Yourself

As a new writer, once you’ve discovered what want to do you will be excited to share with friends and family. When I told my closest friend I wanted to move to New York City and write her response was: “You’ll starve!”

Often, those closest to us are the least supportive. A common refrain was, “How will you make money?”

As a new writer, you must be strong in your conviction.

You need not quit your day job or drop out of school. You don’t even need to have an English degree. What you need is the passion to stay the course, believe in yourself and write.

New Writer Rule No. 2: Just Write

Often the suggestion for new writers is to write what you know. Sound advice, but also restrictive. Share on X

Imagine if Jules Verne limited his writing to what he knew! We’d never have Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea. He was an author way ahead of his time.

The most important thing you can do as a new writer, is to write.

Getting comfortable sharing your innermost thoughts, while finding your voice as a new writer takes time. The more you write, the more you know what you enjoy writing and who you are as a writer.

New Writer Rule No. 3: Writing Is A Habit

Most dedicated writers set aside time daily to write. Some do it 9-5, others who have full-time jobs find 15 minutes a day. Share on X

Make it a habit and you will see growth quicker. And, in the process, your writing will improve.

New Writer Rule No. 4: Submit

You will be a new writer until you start getting published. Find places where you can submit your work. Blogs like Medium, writing contests, or freelancing for newspapers are options.

Don’t be discouraged if you get turned down, just keep writing.

New Writer Rule No. 5: Find A Mentor And Supporters

Surround yourself with writers who are doing the work. And, find friends who believe in your goals.  

When you are just getting started, it’s helpful to have a friend or mentor who will provide guidance and honest feedback. Create a community that is supportive of your goals.

There are groups on Facebook, LinkedIn, and MeetUp. You want people who lift you up even when you doubt your writing skills and ability.

You have everything you need inside of you! Start writing and don’t look back.