The Most Valuable Writing Advice I’ve Ever Received

by DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills

Writers develop their expertise over time and by penning millions of words—some of those words are outstanding and appear on the printed or digital page. Others face rejection either by us or another professional. But along the way, we read and hear writing advice meant to help us enhance our craft. 

 

What is important for every successful writer to know and practice?

 

1. Writing is difficult. If the process of learning and application was easy, everyone would be a prolific writer.

2. Write with blinders. We can’t compare ourselves to other writers. That approach can result in defeat. We measure our progress according to what we put into it.

3. Write what you know, and if you don’t know about the topic—conduct accurate research.

4. Write with priorities. Examine your life and put importance in the proper order.

5. Write with the understanding quality writing is rewriting.

6. Write according to how our brains operate. We select or adjust techniques and methods after examining the masters.

7. Writing is spiritual; it’s true worship of the God who gave the gift.

8. Writing means taking a break and letting the manuscript “cook” in our minds. This allows for precious think time and evaluation.

9. Writing is reader-oriented. Period.

10.Writing is a daily practice of education in all areas of the publishing industry.

 

Recognize that how we each process information is determined by several factors.

Age

Health

Culture

Hobbies

Values

Wants and needs

Where we live

Why we write

Education

Personal interests

Personality

Spiritual beliefs

How long we’ve been writing

Life experiences 

Family and friend support

And much more!

 

Whew! So I’m still committed to offering the best writing advice given to me beyond the 10 important items listed at the beginning of this post.  

 

“Get it down. Take chances. It may be bad, but it’s the only way you can do anything good.” William Faulkner

 

My advice to you: “Learning the craft of writing, like any skill, is a lifelong experience. Embrace it. Crave it. Treasure it.” DiAnn Mills

What is your best writing advice?

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DiAnn Mills is a bestselling author who believes her readers should expect an adventure. She creates action-packed, suspense-filled novels to thrill readers. Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists; won two Christy Awards; and been finalists for the RITA, Daphne Du Maurier, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol award contests. 

She is the director of the Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference, Mountainside Marketing Retreat, and Mountainside Novelist Retreat with social media specialist Edie Melson. Connect here: DiAnnMills.com