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Write His Answer
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Stacy Hawkins Adams
The Complete Do's and Don'ts Of Writing
Do:
1) Ask God for wisdom and revelation on what He wants you to write. Spend time in prayer and Bible study. Always have your Bible, a pen and paper available so you can jot down the ideas God gives you during your time with Him.
2) Figure out what subject(s) and types of writings interest you and make a list.
Ex. Evangelism, discipleship, antique cars, romance, traveling, cooking, etc.
Ex. Novels, magazine articles, short stories, non-fiction, biographies, etc.
You can write about a variety of subjects. Someone will read it if it is informative and applicable to real life.
3) Find books that are similar to what you want to write.
Study them. Analyze the style and format of the authors. See what makes their books so interesting and informative.
4) Develop a plan and set goals.
Decide on how you will categorize each goal.
Ex. Weekly, Monthly, Least important, Most important
5) Attend writer's conferences, (at least one per year).
Remember: no man is an island, especially when it comes to writing. It's difficult to be an effective writer without contact with other writers. When you're around like-minded people, it motivates you and gives you focus. In addition, you can be a great help to others. For more information you can type in “Find Christian Writers Conferences” in your online search engine. Also, check out www.writehisanswer.com and www.writersdigest.com and click on “conferences.”
6) Network with people who are serious about writing. Remember the saying, “Talk is cheap.”
Ask yourself: “Are the people who say they want to write working toward their writing goals or are they just talking about what they want to do?” Action is what really demonstrates progress and drive.
7) Write something everyday!
Ex. A grocery list, a letter, and yes, the writing project you are currently doing! Also it's good to keep a journal with you at all times for those unexpected moments when you get a bright idea or you need to vent.
Don't
1) Forget to spend intimate time with God and follow His direction for your writing.
2) Procrastinate.
3) Wait for friends or family to agree with your calling to write. They may never approve; but that shouldn't stop you from serving God in this capacity.
4) Let go of your dream.
5) Allow unfortunate circumstances or setbacks to keep you from writing.
6) Listen to negative people, (even if they are currently writing).
7) Let rejections prevent you from continuing to write.