Are you writing a book? The task can be a bit overwhelming for sure.
With the task of writing between 16,000 and 100,000 words ahead of you, depending on the genre of your novel, the big question is - where do you start? You will no doubt go through many highs and lows, excitement and self-doubt. You’ve heard many writers say that they have no choice but to write as they are compelled to do so by their passion for storytelling. If you have a story to tell then you are ready for the challenge and the sense of achievement at the end is worth every moment. Let us look at what you can expect to encounter while writing your book and what you can do to make the experience more enjoyable.
Staring at a blank page is the fear of
almost every writer. It is something every artist experiences whether you are a writer, artist or musician. There are likely to be one of two reasons why you cannot make a start writing something on the page. The first is because you do not have enough of a story idea to make a start. This is overcome by planning your novel before you start writing.
The second is that you are paralyzed by fear. The pressure of ‘getting it right’ or ‘will it be good enough’ can stop many writers in their tracks. Sadly, many writers never start their novels for this very reason. The reality is that your novel (or at least its first draft) is not going to be perfect.
Some of the most successful authors in the world will write multiple outlines and drafts of their novel as well as extensive editing along the way. The bottom line is that if you want to be a writer then simply start writing. Do not worry about it being perfect. Instead, think of it as getting your story onto the page as a starting point. Another thing to consider is that writing is a process of revision and elimination. My advice is to write first and do any revisions or editing afterward.
Helpful Exercises
Here are two exercises that might help you:
1) Freewriting – Choose a topic and then set a timer for ten minutes. Your exercise is to keep writing for ten minutes, or whatever time you choose, without stopping. Keep going, even if you cannot think of anything relevant to write. Just write things like ‘I cannot think. My mind has gone blank’ or whatever comes to your mind at the time. This is a great exercise for first-time writers as it encourages you to let go of any self-doubt and enjoy writing.
2) Your ideal reader – Choose a topic and imagine your ideal reader is sitting opposite you. It could be someone you have a close emotional connection to or it could be someone imaginary. If you do not keep them captivated with your storytelling, they are going to get up and walk away. Your exercise is to tell them your story and get to the end without them leaving. Of course, you could do this with a real person but that might be a little too much pressure.
The main point of all this is – if you really want to write a book we suggest that you
Read other writers stories or books – then write your story
Next –
Read other writers stories or books – then write your story
Finally –
Read other writers stories or books – then write your story.
And then once you're ready - contact Breaking Rules Publishing for some help publishing your book.
www.breakingruleswritingcompetitions.com
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