Rita’s 9 Rules for Aspiring Writers – Pt 3 (Rewind)

Hi Everybody,
Well, we’re down to the last three rules of Rita’s 9 Rules for Aspiring Writers.

Missed Part 1? Don’t worry, click here: http://ritahubbard.com/2010/ritas-9-rules-for-aspiring-writers-pt-1-rewind

Missed Part 2? Just click here: http://ritahubbard.com/2010/ritas-9-rules-for-aspiring-writers-pt-2-rewind

If you’re ready for the last three rules, well…here we go!

7. Don’t Be a Hermit; Join Something
As I mentioned above, there are many organizations—professional and nonprofessional, for the aspiring writer. Yahoo Groups (www.yahoo.com) has many writing groups, including Picture Book, historical writing, nature writing, young adult…you name it. SCBWI (Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators) has Discussion Boards where you can post questions, get work critiqued, find a pen pal, or download information about upcoming seminars. You can visit them at www.SCBWI.org. Don’t be a hermit…join something! Not only will you form wonderful friendships, you’ll gain insight and new skills in your craft.

8. No All Writers DON’T Have it made, So Quit Saying That.
My book debuted in January 2008. After that, I did three television shows, five radio shows, four book signings and three lectures. I loved every minute of it, but…do I have it made? Not even.

It took me more than six years to write my book. I didn’t get an advance because I was a nobody (still am, if you want to split hairs). I just got my first royalty check in January of this year, and not a cent since then. Again I ask you, do I have it made? I don’t think so!

As I said before, writing is a skill. I worked hard to get where I am today…and some days I’m not even sure where that is. So when you find yourself fixing your lips to tell some writer or other that he/she has it made, think again. Writing is every bit as wonderful as it’s cracked up to be, but it’s nowhere near as glamorous. It takes hard work. Just be sure you’re ready and willing to do your share of hard work to get your name…and your book, out there.

9. Quit Procrastinating and write
Okay, we’ve gone through the list of things I think are important for you to know as a writer. So what are you going to do about it? If you say you’re going to re-read this list and think about the suggestions I’ve made…well, that’s alright with me. But if you have total recall and don’t need to go over this list again, what are you waiting for. Get to it.

So there you have it; the final three rules from Rita’s 9 Rules for Aspiring Writers. I truly hope these posts have helped you in your quest to become a writer.

Best wishes and happy writing,

Rita Lorraine