Writing Tips for the Non-Writer

It has taken me 6 years to finally call myself a writer.  Writing is something I stumbled into.  Sure I kept journals all my life and I have taken thousands of notes in history class. I have written tons of papers as well, but I never considered myself a writer not even after I wrote my first book.  In the last year, I have begun to take my writing seriously. I wanted to share a few tips for the non-writers like me.  Writing is not that hard. We complicated with our thoughts, doubts, and fears. When I realized this, my creativity exploded. 

Tip #1 Just Write

Writing is about putting pen to paper or tapping fingers on a keyboard.  If you have mobile use of your fingers and a good idea, you can write. The writing process  is not complicated at all.  It is the mental releasing of ideas on a piece of paper.  You need to just write; not edit.  Editing is a totally different process. 

Tip #2 Schedule Time

I have learned the value of scheduled writing time.  I used to be a fan of organic writing. Writing when the mood strikes then I began to notice the mood wasn't striking that often. When it did strike, my mind would draw a blank.  Scheduling time to write has helped me tremendously.  I can now write 700 words in 30 minutes or less.

Tip # 3 Divorce Your Words

I learned this from an English major friend, she told me to divorce my words.  I was getting too offended when I saw the red marks on my paper.  She said I was too tied to my work and by learning to divorce my words; I would give myself room to produce my best work.  I live by this advice especially when working with editors.  It is the editor’s job to bring out the best in you.

Tip# 4 Expand your knowledge

I write for a freelance writing company. I mostly choose to write papers that I have experience in but every so often I will choose a topic which peaks my interest. I choose a new topic to expand my knowledge base. I've learned not to be afraid to branch out into a new area of interest.  Google, Pinterest, YouTube have made researching more enjoyable for me.

These writing tips are useful for bloggers and authors.  I used them to excel me in both areas.  Even if you are non-writer these tips should help you improve your writing greatly.