10 Tips on how to start your writing journey

Before we begin with the tips, I want to tell you how proud I am of you for taking the first step to writing your first book. Well done! I know that it can be overwhelming, but you've got this. Starting your writing journey can feel daunting, and it is daunting at times, but remember that nothing worthwhile comes easy. Writing is a process, and taking it one step at a time is okay. Below you will find ten tips that will help you at the beginning of your writing journey.

1. Start with What You Know

You don't need a grand plot or intricate world-building to start writing your book. Start with something familiar. It can be a personal experience, a subject you're passionate about, or even a vivid dream. Writing personally will help build your confidence and create more authentic stories. All you have to do is start, and as you write, the story will begin to unfold and grow in ways you never expected. Trust the crazy process.

2. Write Regularly, Even If It's Just a Little

Consistency is key. You don't have to write for hours every day, even 10 or 15 minutes a day can make a difference. If you work outside the home, you can wake up a few minutes earlier or take some time in the quiet evening. The more you write, the more you'll grow as a writer. Small steps, over time, lead to significant progress.

3. Focus on the joy

So many writers get stuck in trying to write the perfect story. Trust me, that will come in time. Don't focus on your writing skills, focus on the joy of writing and the freedom to explore your ideas. Your first book is just the beginning, and it's okay if it's not perfect. I remember looking back at the first book I wrote and being amazed at how much I've improved since then. I'm pretty embarrassed by my first few books, but you have to start somewhere. Your writing will evolve, and each new project will be better than the last. The more you write, the better you'll become.

4. Create an Outline, But Be Flexible

Outlines help organize your thoughts and give your writing direction, but don't feel like you have to follow them rigidly. If inspiration strikes and your story wants to go in a different direction, go with it! Some of the best writing happens when we let go of the plan and just let the story flow. I do brief outlines for my books, but I've learned that the story often evolves more authentically when I let it take the lead.

5. Read Often and Widely

One of the best ways to improve your writing is by reading. The more you read, the better you'll understand different writing styles, sentence structures, and vocabulary. Read a mix of fiction and non-fiction to keep your mind fresh and inspired. The more you expose yourself to different voices, the more you'll find your own. And I'd encourage you to read stories written by indie authors. Indie authors go through a unique struggle, and the support of other authors can make all the difference.

6. Get Feedback, But Trust Yourself

Asking for feedback from trusted friends or fellow writers is essential, but remember this is your story. While feedback can help you improve, your vision should still lead the way. Follow your instincts and write the story that feels right to you.

7. Don't Take Criticism Personally

It's never easy to receive criticism, but as a writer, you must learn how to handle it. It can be tough when you start, but don't take it personally. If the feedback is constructive, use it to grow and improve as a writer. Instead of seeing criticism as bad, look at it as a tool to become a better writer.

8. Don't Compare Yourself to Others

It's easy to feel discouraged when you look at other writers who seem to have it all together, but every writer's journey is different. Comparing yourself to others can cause you to feel insecure about your journey, and we don't want that. Support other authors, but don't compare. We are all unique, and we all have different stories. It is not a competition but a community.

9. Find Your Writing Environment

Every writer is different when it comes to their ideal writing space. Some like to spend their time in complete silence, while others thrive in the buzz of a coffee shop or with music in the background. Try different environments and times of day to find what works best for you. For me, I love writing at home with music playing in the background, it helps me get into the zone, and I get lost in the world I am creating.

10. Have Fun!

Writing should be fun and fulfilling. Remember that it is a beautiful gift. If it starts feeling like a chore, try shifting gears. Write about something that excites you, or take a break and return to it later with fresh eyes.

Final Thoughts

I hope these few steps have put your mind at ease and you feel ready to begin your exciting journey. Don't let fear or self-doubt hold you back. Celebrate the small victories. Soon enough, you'll look back and realize how far you've come. I am already proud of you!

Happy writing! And always remember, every great writer was once a beginner.