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Dreaming Beyond Olokun
Writing Tips
#1 Set A Schedule
Create a schedule for yourself everyday, whether in your mind or on paper, to keep your writing on track. Remember to give yourself breaks. Don't burn out!
#2 Make Notes
Making random notes for yourself before you begin the writing process can be useful. They don't need to make sense to anyone but you.
- A good example is if you've gotten the idea for your story from a dream, you may want to make a note of things you saw in the dream or what kinds of different ideas it sparked. It doesn't mean you're required to use all of it.
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#3 Write Everyday!
Writing everyday can enhance your writing skills. Even if you aren't planning to publish any of it, keep writing.
#4 When In Doubt...
Nobody likes random & unnecessary filler content. Writing from personal experiences can not only add to your story, but inspire new ideas & fill some gaps in a much deeper & detailed fashion. When in doubt, write what you know.
- For example, it's easier to highlight or emphasize an emotional scene when drawing from past or traumatic emotions because you've already experienced a similar, emotionally equivalent scenario.
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It's not only personal experiences either, you want to write about certain subjects & themes you're familiar & knowledgeable with, but don't be afraid to learn something new for a story!
#5 Use A Word List
When you need to set a descriptive mood or tone, use a word list. This is relatively simple. If you're new to writing, aren't used to it, or struggling to be descriptive, try making your own list using the following steps. Also note, your word list can be used multiple times while writing your story:
Step 1: Determine the tone or mood of your scene or story (creepy, ominous).
Step 2: Search various sources for words relating to the determined tone or mood of your scene or story. I usually find up to 50 adjectives, nouns, or verbs.
Step 3: Compile your list & have it on hand to use for your scene or story.
#6 Leave Your Comfort Zone
Even if you fear the thought of leaving your comfort zone, do it. It's not always easy to brave the unknown when it comes to writing. From personal experience of my own, I can tell you that doing this can make your stories turn out that much better. Don't question it, just go for it!
- My personal example for this is that I have a difficult time killing characters, especially important ones. As a highly empathic author, I find it too difficult emotionally. My characters are like my family, so the grief often feels too real for me. I had to kill two characters in one of my series recently, not because I wanted to, but because the story called for it. I left my comfort zone and despite the difficulties, the finished product was worth it!
#7 Ask For Assistance
It's always good to ask others for help but remember that it is your story, you decide how it starts, proceeds, & ends. If you don't like asking for help, don't be anxious, just ask! Sometimes the advice of others can spark new ideas & improve the quality of your writing, but only let others help out when the time is right.
#8 Don't Fear Criticism!
There will always be people out there criticizing your writing, but the trick is not to let it upset you. Whether it's positive or negative criticism, there's still lots which can be learned from a bad review or criticism.
Try not to let people stop you from evolving as a writer.
#9 A Change Of Scenery
If you're struggling with writer's block then perhaps it's time to change your scenery. I've tested this many times, it works. Sometimes going outside as opposed to staying indoors all day long can ignite your imagination!
#10 Be Positive!
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