Keeping My Skills Up - Moving Forward

Writing is a skill we can improve with experience.  Not even a year ago, back in April, I decided to be an author.  I’ve been writing stories for years, but I had no idea how to write a novel.  How the heck was I supposed to plot something like that out?  What am I supposed to do with characters?

I started by taking courses.  The first couple were simply on writing fiction, whether it’s short stories or novels.  I learned about writing descriptions and working with emotions.  Still not knowing enough to write a novel, I took courses on plotting.  I learned how to build a story and what significant points were needed.  My favourite place to take writing courses without spending a lot of money is www.Udemy.com, as they always have sales each month.  

The biggest compliment people can give me as a writer is that they didn’t want to put my book down, they had to keep reading.  So far, multiple people have said that about my first novel, Runaway Magic.  People are starting to read my second novel, and feedback has been similar there.  It’s all thanks to the information I learned from writing courses.

Also, aspiring writers, learn tips and tricks on language use and powerful ways to string sentences together.  Some words are less powerful, and sometimes simple sentences are better than long and drawn out sentences.  The number one thing that stops me from reading books is how easy the sentences are to read.  Sometimes I’m lost by the fourth comma in one sentence.  Sometimes simple really is better.

I’m still taking courses and now watching webinars on different aspects of writing.  I’m always seeking to grow my skills for both writing and publishing.  There are all kinds of webinars out there by established authors to help writers hone their craft.  Take advantage of them, but always think critically.  Anyone can post anything online, so learn all you can, but be careful.  You can even try things, but be ready to change and adapt as you gain your own experience.

The last couple of months I’ve been doing a lot of webinars and reading books on different aspects of writing.  I’m proud of my first book, even with how I see I could now write it better.  Already with my second book, I was a better writer.  My third book is going even better for me.  Again, my skills have improved.  Who knows how well I’ll write in a few years?  I look forward to finding out!