Six Positive Tips to Becoming a Writer-In-Demand

So, you’ve been told that you have a way with words or that your burning passion to create something meaningful should be explored and that you should, and this is a normal refrain “write a book.”
If you really want to become the writer that you know you can be, then it’s time to set about learning the intuitive basis of freelance writing that can help you become a prolific and sought after writer .
Here are five positive tips to get you started on the road to becoming a prolific freelance writer.
1. Your love affair with the written word will cause you to want to devour books in every genre. You won’t like the works of every author out there, but reading other writers with a critical eye helps strengthen your writing power (Not saying you CAN’T read for pleasure here) 🙂
2. Read and write outside of your passions. If you write children stories; you’ll also need to try your hand at writing mysteries, plays, short stories of fiction and non fiction. I once took a creative writing course where the instructor told me the great news that yes, I was indeed a writer, but now I had to explore writing with all of my might and that meant taking classes in journalism, scriptwriting, play-writing and theater. The more you read, the more prolific you become as a writer.
3. Be prepared for criticisms and disbelief from naysayers. When you tell people you are a writer, many people will examine you for that extra head you’re sporting, or, at the very least think you’ve lost your mind and that you will eventually wise up and “get a real job.”
4. If you taken the necessary steps to achieving your ‘writer status’ then you must decide if you’re going to write full-time or part-time and this is a great decision to make because writers need to have a survival plan in motion to stave off that starving artist mentality when writing jobs seems to dwindle.
5. Write every day. It doesn’t matter what you write, as long as you place fingers to key board, or pen to paper to begin the process. You can write gobbledygook to strengthen your writing muscles and get your creative juices flowing if you like; whatever works to get and keep you in the habit of becoming a writing habit.
6. Become a life long learner to hone your writing craft. You can add substance to your work by taking advantage of online writing classes or join a writer’s group. There are valuable gems to be gleaned from your efforts.

I am still reeling from, and implementing some valuable writing tips I got from recently completing two free online classes. You can search prior posts where I talk about my experiences and provide links to free online classes.
The late South African author, activist and Nobel Prize winner in Literature, Nadine Gordimer, said in an interview, “Writing is a necessity.” Have you considered the depth of your need to create? If so, then it’s time to let the world know of your brilliance. And when you achieve that “writer-in-demand” status, pay it forward and help another writer by sharing gems from your journey to success.

What frightens you ,but also challenge your growth as a writer?
Side note: I apologize to my readers for the lateness of this post, but I celebrated my birthday, people! Thanks to all for the well wishes and the lovely outing!!

Working hard to bring your inner writer to the forefront can deplete your energy so take time out for you and always treat yourself special.

5 Ways to use Travel to Super-Charge Your Writing Skills

I recently visited my hometown and saw my brother’s place for the first time. I was so impressed as the family gathered on the deck of his property to enjoy the southern breeze and setting sun that I returned home to pen a post for BlogHer called “Farmer Joe.” Lynne Klippel talks about how to use travel to charge up your writing- Enjoy! Clara54

When you notice that your writing is starting to slump, it’s time to hit the road and go on a trip. Whether you decide to travel far afield or enjoy your hometown, you can use travel to open up the floodgates of your creativity by following these simple steps:

1. Increase Your Powers of Observation- Great writers notice details.  As you travel, look closely at everything and everyone.  Practice describing the sights, sounds, and smells around you. Use rich language that evokes emotions and sensations, like a velvety rose petal or tart lemon.  By the way, that type of language makes compelling blog posts or website copy.

At an airport or park, watch people and describe them in your mind.  Look for one characteristic which makes them unique, whether it is a shy smile, a crooked gait, or a piercing stare.

2. Create Stories- As you sit in a coffee shop or visit a museum, create a back story for the people you see.  Give yourself creative license to make up a rich life for this person with challenges, triumphs, and desires. Make it juicy, mysterious, or ominous.  Even if you write non-fiction, creating these imaginary stories will sharpen your ability to create interest and curiosity with your words.

3. Keep a Journal- Use your trip to develop the habit of daily writing.  Make a commitment to spend some time each day chronicling your trip, what you observed, and any inspirations that come to you.  By taking a break from your regular writing and writing solely about your travel experiences, you’ll return home to work on your book refreshed but still in the practice of daily writing.

4. Unplug- When you travel, eliminate television, email, and web surfing as much as possible.  Fill  your mind with interactions with real people instead of electronic media.   This will serve as a virtual re-set button for your creativity.  You’ll be amazed at the energy and ideas you have when you return home.

5. Try New Things or Learn New Information- In my recent trip to Ecuador, I immersed myself in a different culture where I did not speak the language or know much about the history. I learned so much and reconnected with the joy of discovery.  When you help your readers discover new things in your writing, you will inspire them and help them discover new ways to live.

So if you find your writing in a rut, step away from your computer and take a trip.  Follow these 5 steps and you’ll return home refreshed, recharged, and ready to write your great book.

Lynne Klippel is a best-selling author, publisher, and book coach who specializes in helping non-fiction authors write books that build their business and transform the world. For a f.r.e.e. assessment that will help you see your author strengths and opportunities, visit http://www.BusinessBuildingBooks.com