Is this the year you decide to scratch that itch and finally write your book? Or decide to just investigate the possibility of becoming what you’ve always dreamed about – becoming a real writer?
What are some of the first steps you can take? What are best practices you can begin as you step into this exciting new journey?
Learn the Craft. Becoming a writer involves more than just buying a new laptop and jotting down some ideas. It is more than a hobby. More than just an itch. Writing is a craft, and it can become a business. It can also become an answer to a dream and more than you can imagine or even think about.
So learn the craft. Attend writers’ conferences. Join a writers’ critique group. Read how-to books. Come to a meeting and engage with other writers. Check out this group: https://www.facebook.com/HeartofAmericaChristianWritersNetwork
Learn what they are doing and how they are writing.
Journal. If you already keep a journal, then you are writing. If not, buy a nice journal that invites you to add your words to it. Jot down ideas. You don’t have to write a novel or a memoir. You can begin with bullet points.
Many writers began by typing out their early lives in diaries or journals. Then they learn how to use those writings to create articles, short stories, memoirs, or blog posts. You can do the same.
Start Building Your Tribe. Use social media for more than discussing the latest political nonsense. Tell your friends about your dream to be a writer and send them little snippets of your ideas. Ask them to comment and share your posts as you build your network.
If you want to eventually publish a book, your social media tribe will be a vital marketing tool. They will help you share your book and gain influence with your posts. And if you decide to approach an agent, s/he will require that you have a media presence.
Prime the Pump. Beginning writers sometimes believe they must wait for the ‘muse’ to help them write.
After 40+ years of professional writing, coaching, and editing — I can tell you there is no such thing as a ‘muse.’
God has gifted each of us with creativity. It is up to us to acknowledge that gift and use it. The inspiration will come as soon as you begin moving your fingers on the keyboard or scratching the pen across paper. Prime the pump by beginning and let the energy of creativity take over. You may be amazed what you can create after 30 minutes of writing. Just do it!
Submit Something. The best way to begin thinking of yourself as a writer is to actually submit a piece of writing to an editor. Now, there are things to avoid and concepts to learn before you do this. But there are a multitude of online magazines, guest blogs, and organizations looking for good writers.
Learn the rules about submitting. Work with a coach or a writing mentor so that you follow the proper procedures. Then submit your words. You may be rejected at first. Most of us have a folder filled with rejection slips. But each rejection is a learning opportunity.
One day, you may read an acceptance email and receive a check. You see your name in print and know your words are going out to the world. You feel your purpose as you make an impact on someone’s life. You begin to stand out in the sea of voices, and now you want to write more.
So begin this new year with intentional writing practices. If you’re stuck and don’t know how to begin, contact me for a Coaching Consultation. I can help you take that next step. [email protected].
©2026 RJ Thesman – All Rights Reserved
Check out my latest book – the result of these best practices. Seeking the Land of Grace.