5 Thing I've Learned Since I Entered the Writing World, By Kathleen Ann Gallagher

I am an upcoming author for Decadent Publishing. My paranormal romance, Echoes At Dawn will be coming soon. I hope you stop over and check out Decadent's website. I'm sure you'll find it a worthwhile visit.

I have been writing since I was a young girl, but stopped to have a family, and pursue a career in nursing. Five years ago, I got the writing bug again. I've learned so much, since becoming serious about my writing. These things are only my opinions.

1. Commit to write everyday.

When I began this adventure of writing seriously, I had no idea what to expect, or how to begin. All I knew was that I had an idea for a story and a plan to write everyday. Since I work full-time, I knew I couldn't commit to many hours daily, but I made an agreement with a co-worker to write for an hour each day. We both had an interest in writing fiction, and we each had a premise in the back of our minds. I recall scribbling down the first few lines and showing them to her one day at work. We shook hands on our promise, and started on a journey to complete our first manuscript. In the beginning, I started slow. When I got into the middle of the story, I typed faster, and the story took off. My desire to write became a need to write. If there is no commitment, there is no manuscript. A completed work of fiction will not appear on its own. You have to do the work. It is not easy, but if you ask another writer, they will tell you how miserable they feel, when they do not write for a few days. Writing becomes part of who you are, and your characters need you to help them get from point A to point B.

2. Don't submit too early.

I made the mistake of submitting before I was ready, and lost many wonderful opportunities. I tried to hurry the process along, and it does not happen that way. You must do the work required, before an agent, editor, or publishing house will make you an offer. If you are serious about your writing, there are many wonderful organizations that offer support, knowledge, and an opportunity to network with other writers. There are also editing services and for a fee, you can get an idea if your manuscript is worth working on, and where you need to improve. If you take your time, it will show in the final product. Even if you studied grammar in school, completing a manuscript that is marketable takes time. You may have read stories about authors who get a deal with a top agent or publisher on their first novel. It might happen, nothing is impossible, but be realistic, and get information.

3. Learn how to accept rejection.

Rejection is not an easy thing to face. It takes a toll on even the most confident writer. However, it happens to the best of us. When I got rejected, and I sure did, I became tougher each time. At first, I took it very personal. It felt like an attack on my work and talent. I learned to read it carefully with an open mind, and try to absorb the message, if any. Sometimes you will get a form rejection, which can be cold and make you feel like you got a slap in the face, but it's not. If you're lucky, you will get a comment, or remark that explains why they are rejecting you, and a few lines offering encouragement. If that happens, value it, and take it for what it's worth. Move forward and learn from rejection. Don't give up.

4. Be kind and courteous.

Writing is a business, and it is essential to be professional at all time. If you attend a meeting or conference, try not to gossip. Be friendly and open to meeting new people. You never know when you will be working on the same team with someone. Everyone has different views, so listen without judging. We are all in this together. A kind word goes a long way, but a bad comment can come back to you and put you in a negative place as a writer.

5. Take a break when you are overwhelmed.

I have been working on edits, and as some of you know, first edits can be challenging. I would suggest working a few hours each day, with breaks in between. When you are tired, your creative energy stops. You must allow yourself a rest period, and something healthy to eat. My brain does not work, when I'm hungry. If I read something else for a while, or listen to music, a new idea will come to me. It is a great to watch a movie, too. Sometimes it is exactly what you need to help you get back on track. Going to bed early is not a bad idea, either. If only I could follow my own advice.

Thanks Anne, for having me as a guest on your blog today.

You can find me at:
http://kathleensplacetoreflect.blogspot.com/
http://kathleenanngallagher.net/Home.html