by Edie Melson @EdieMelson
There are a lot of things about being a writer that are hard. And there are a lot of ways we make it even harder on ourselves. So today, I’d like to remind you—and me—of ways to be a little bit kinder on ourselves.
1. Instead of putting yourself down, build yourself up.
2. Choose to be optimistic.
3. Pray First
4. Be patient, writing is a process and takes time.
5. Invest in your dream—financially and otherwise.
6. Find a tribe—don’t try to do this alone.
7. Remember why you write.
8. Be courageous.
9. Choose joy.
10. Remember that failure isn’t always a bad thing.
11. Be flexible.
12. Give others the benefit of the doubt.
13. Eat healthy.
14. Take a chance and hit send.
15. Make time to write a priority.
16. Take a walk—exercise regularly.
17. Don’t beat yourself up when you fall short.
18. Invest in other writers—we all have those who aren’t quite where we are.
19. Give yourself the gift of a reasonable writing schedule.
20. Have a dedicated workspace.
21. When you hit a roadblock, go around it, don’t stop.
22. Encourage other writers.
23. Sometimes, write just for the fun of it.
I’d love for you to add to today’s list. Be sure to leave
your thoughts in the comments section below.
Don’t forget to join the conversation!
Blessings,
Edie
And because I've had requests for this in the past, here's a link to a PDF of this list.
TWEETABLES
Your list is so complete Ms. Edie, it's difficult to think of anything to add. To my list, I would add "Take Notes." I keep an Excel file on my desktop I call my "Idealog." As life happens; thoughts, observations, inspired ideas, etc., I jot these down. Some my consider it a journal, but I use mine differently than I do my 'Thankfulness' journal. It's a place where I gather/collect my ideas for future use. Loved this list and can't wait to get my copy of your new book Soul Care for Writers. God's blessings ma'am.
ReplyDeleteMr. Jim, I love the idea of your "idealog" thanks for sharing! Blessings, E
DeleteEdie,
ReplyDeleteWhat a remarkable list. I would add "Read for fun" It can be a novel or a magazine or a newspaper or a nonfiction book--something you are taking into your life. As writers we need to be reading and continually learning and growing--but we can do it for fun too.
Terry
Straight Talk From the Editor
Terry, that's great addition!!! Thanks for stopping by, Blessings, E
DeleteRead, read, read! I think there's a saying: the best writers are the best readers. I echo Terry in reading for pleasure!
ReplyDeleteAs a new writer, I've learned the value of #5, the importance of #19, and the necessity of #20.
Amanda, all great thoughts! Thanks for chiming in, Blessings, E
DeleteGreat list. A reminder to be kinder to ourselves and other writers.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Edie!
Ingmar, thank you! I hope you have a great day - E
DeleteWhat great encouragement! Thank you Edie! :-)
ReplyDeleteThank you!
DeleteThank you so much for this. Very encouraging! I agree that is important to be part of a community. Support is so important.
ReplyDelete