Writing is amazing, and exciting and fun and SUPER HARD

It’s hard to find the time to write. When you do find the time, it’s hard to put words to the amazing stories and characters that leap so gracefully through your mind. And then actually showing someone your heart and soul you’ve poured onto the page? Excrutiating. And that’s before you even get to the querying process, which comes with so much rejection you want to scrap writing and take up circus performing (it’s got to be easier right?)

So why do we write? Honestly, I don’t have a solid answer on that, except to say it makes me happy. Whatever your reason for writing, I’ve compiled some resources that might reduce some of the hard, so you can focus on the happy.

This is the #1 resource I reccomend to writers. For a low monthly rate you get access to courses on pretty much any aspect of writing you want to explore. When I signed up, my family didn’t see me for weeks.

While I prefer to write in Google docs, I use Trello for my revisions. It lets me see every scene in my novel, move them around, and take notes. And when I’ve finished revising a scene I get to change it from red to green, which is enormously satisfying. Plus it’s free and easy to set up.

Don’t let the name throw you. It’s a HUGE help in structuring your story so that it’s compelling to the reader, but doesn’t make you want to stab your eyes out.

Writing Routine

I’ve found that a pre-writing routine gets my mind warmed up and helps the ideas flow. My routine includes a solid breakfast, 10 minutes of movement, and 5 minutes of meditation. Find a routine that works for you and watch the quality and quantity of your writing improve dramatically.

Writing Groups

Writing groups can beta read, give encouragement, and talk you out of using a dream sequence as your opening scene (trust me, it’s never a good idea). Whether it’s online or in person, find yourself a writing group!

Chocolate

When you’ve spent five angsty days wrestling a scene into submission, treat yourself. Maybe it’s chocolate, maybe it’s painting your toes a fun color, maybe it’s lighting the fancy candle you’ve been saving. Down the road there may be millions of people celebrating your success, but right now that job falls to you. Do it well.

Need a writing friend? Let’s hang!

Writing is a solitary venture, but sometimes you need a friend. If you want to brainstorm plot points, coordinate a newsletter swap, or just have a buddy on your emotional writing rollercoaster, I’m here for you. You can connect with me on Instagram @libbytannerauthor or Facebook Libby Tanner Author. Or you can email me at libby@libbytannerauthor.com