6 Notes of Encouragement For the Blossoming Writer

1. If writing is your passion, then do not stop pursuing it.

Even when you feel like you are not improving, even when you feel like you have lost inspiration, even when you feel like "maybe you weren't supposed to be a writer." And I say "when" (not "if") because you will have moments like these. But it's in those moments that you must write. Even if it's just one sentence. Or write about how you are feeling. There is always a reason to write, there is always something in your brain that needs to be said, to be shared, to be written. Don't ever stop writing. It's your passion. Your adventure.

2. Sometimes write for others, but remember to never stop writing for yourself.

It's good to have the desire to write for others, to share experiences and be relatable. But other days, when nothing seems to be spilling onto the paper the way you want it to, write for yourself. On the day when you have gusts of inspiration and need to share your words, write for yourself. This is never wrong. It's not a bad thing. And when you write something that you feel willing to share, do so. Writing is meant to be relatable, even if the only one who can relate to it is you.

3. While grammar and vocabulary are necessary to understand the written word, don't follow any sort of instructions on how you should write.

Many times people pay too much attention to the intricate style of writing that they get too caught up in the way it's being written, not the way it's being conveyed. If you want to write poetically, write poetically. If you want to write simplistically, write simplistically. No one can tell you what to and how you should write. Every writer has their own style. The main thing is that whatever you choose to write will impact someone. Don't always worry about editing. The words will speak for themselves. An uncrossed 't' or an undotted 'i' won't hurt anyone. Focus on getting the words onto paper, and then figure out how to fine tune everything.

“Be your own worst critic. Don’t be lazy. Write and rewrite until it’s the very best it can be. If you’re honest with yourself, you’ll know when the work is ready.”- Sarah Crossan

4. Haters will be one of your life supports.

Negativity is a very real thing. And receiving negative feedback is something you will never be able to avoid. It will happen. It's part of being an artist. But also, remember, if you aren't doing something noticeable, then you won't have haters. So if something you are writing is causing someone to react cynically, then you are probably doing something right. True artists give constructive criticism and only want to see you succeed. Individuals who haven't found their creative flair are they who attempt to sabotage your work and discourage you to a degree where you won't be more successful than them. Ignore these types of people. If they have nothing better to do than to beat down humans who are actually trying to hone their gifts, then they aren't worth even noticing. But if you do notice them, let their distaste fuel your passion.

5. Read. A lot.

Reading different genres, discovering other writers, figuring out what you like to read - all of this will help you figure out what style of writer you are. It's an exciting time, too, because you discover new tastes and learn what type of writing is most attractive to you, or falls more in line with how you want to write. It's fascinating.

6. If anything you write causes someone to feel something, in one way or another, then you have done well.

You have succeeded. And that is the greatest sense of accomplishment you will ever know as a writer. To paint a brilliant picture using only little black words on a white canvas called a page... now that is a gift.

Keep it up.