How to Earn Money and Add to Your Writing Resume

by Lori Hatcher

Are you a new writer seeking to add credits to your writer’s resume? Would you like to earn extra cash to support all the paper, ink, and sticky notes you’ve been buying since you got serious about writing? Maybe you’d like to expand your reach and impact new audiences with your knowledge, insight, and passion?

Ten years ago, I was on a summer sabbatical from the Christian magazine I edited and wanted to use my time to find new places of publication for my devotions and Christian living articles.

Flash Fiction Basics and Example

by Henry McLaughlin @RiverBendSagas

Have you ever written flash fiction? It’s a form of short story—a really short story. No more than 1500 words. A complete story in 1500 words or less! Can it be done? There are websites and ezines and contests for them all over the internet. One of the shortest pieces of flash fiction is six words long and attributed to Ernest Hemingway:

“For sale: baby shoes, never worn.”

Powerfully emotional, right?

I’ve written some pieces of flash fiction. I find Flash Fiction to be a good exercise for exploring my characters. A short piece helps me see some aspect of them I hadn’t noticed before—some part of their personality or backstory that helps me know them better and make them stronger throughout the story. In a short piece, the character may reveal aspects of themselves I hadn’t seen or grasped before.

May the Force Be With You: Pressing Through to Clarity in the Writing Journey

by Kennita (Kay) Williams

It was one of those mornings. The cursor blinked over and over, like a tiny reminder that I still hadn't written a single word, and every click of the keys felt forced. I had carved out time to write, set the mood with my favorite instrumental playlist, and even brewed my go-to medium roast Gevalia coffee. But nothing was flowing. My thoughts were scattered. My spirit felt cluttered.

I sat back in my chair, let out a heavy sigh, and whispered, “Lord, what do You want to say?” That simple question changed everything.

What's a Writer to Do While We Wait

by Katherine Hutchinson-Hayes @KHUTCH0767

Waiting is one of the hardest parts of the writing journey. You’ve poured your heart into a manuscript, pitched to agents and editors, entered contests, and submitted proposals—yet, the answer hasn’t come. Or worse, it has, and it’s another no. Meanwhile, your calendar is full, your creativity is stretched, and your inbox is buzzing. You’re busier than ever, yet you’re still waiting for the yes that seems just out of reach.

I’m in the middle of that very season. I have multiple projects in the works—books, proposals, and editorial responsibilities. From the outside, it looks as if things are moving. But contracts haven’t landed. Doors haven’t opened. And there are moments when discouragement creeps in and whispers, “What’s the point? Who do you think you are? Why don’t you give up? No one cares what I have to say. My words don’t matter.”

Use Your Writing Skills to Share Hope When You Feel Hopeless

by Edie Melson @EdieMelson 

Powerless uncertainty.

Sometimes those two words seem to sum up what it feels like to be a writer. There's something truly scary about being powerless. Combine that with the uncertainty about what was about to happen and it becomes a situation that can stop anyone in their tracks. Those are emotions every writing must learn to face and overcome. I believe one of the best ways to move forward is to take an honest look at powerlessness and uncertainty. 

When we do examine these two things, we see can the lies we believe when we accept these lies as truth. And we see how we can replace them with action.

I’m A Writer

by Tammy Karasek @TickledPinkTam

I don’t know how you feel about the question “What do you do?” I know I tend to get a tad uncomfortable when asked this. As an author, I’ve heard fellow authors lament about this too, so I’m glad to hear I’m not the only one. 

When asked this, I will offer up some pittance of stammering not willing to answer that question with the phrase “I’m a writer.” I wouldn’t be lying, I am a writer. I even have one book published and am included in a couple compilation books. Yet for me, it’s the questions that often follow that first one. “Oh, what do you write? What’s the title of your book? Where can I find it?” 

Get More From Your Writing Conference by Taking Advantage of Online Opportunities

by Edie Melson @EdieMelson

We are well into the spring season of Writing Conferences. Writers everywhere are returning and/or making plans to attend writing conferences. But in the midst of your preparation, be sure not to miss out on valuable connections that can more than double what you get out of these events.

Many writers have the mistaken idea that social networking is only beneficial online. Or that it only helps when you can’t be at an event. Not true.

While it’s true that networking online can help you plug in when you’re not at a conference or event—many miss the benefits of networking online before and during the conference.