Wednesday, July 7, 2010

TOOLS FOR WRITING PRACTICE

" I'm one of those people that believes you should start writing
before you think you're ready."-- Joseph Ellis

Well, here we are at the Writer's Corner again--Welcome in!
I hope you've had time to experiment with a few of the ideas I've passed on to you so far. They were simple, straightforward and very do-able. Today, I want to look at some writer's tools, environment, and space.

BASIC TOOLS
Writing is a blessing to your pocket book because you don't need a lot of expensive things to get started.......Look at this list:
Several pencils or pens
A simple spiral notebook or pad of notebook paper
A small notebook for purse or pocket
A desire to write

WHERE TO WRITE
Some people like to write in bed upon awakening
Some people have a comfortable chair or sofa that suits them just fine
Others need to be upright in a chair at their desk or computer
Others may like to sit by a tree, on a porch swing, by the water
Find what feels right for you and gives you the most incentive to write

WHEN TO WRITE
Some writers pick up the pen first thing in their morning before the day begins
Some writers set a time during their day
Others set blocks of time during their week where they can be undisturbed
Some write in the evening when all is quiet and serene
Some write on the spot-- anytime, anywhere, anyway

This all sounds and looks easy, doesn't it?
The biggest challenge for the writer is to JUST WRITE.....PERIOD!!!!
No excuses, no procrastinating, no negotiating............JUST DO IT!

WEEKLY CHALLENGE FOR YOU!
Every day this week (7 days) I challenge you to write for at least 15 minutes.
Just write.............set your timer and don't stop till it dings
Find the right notebook and pen or pencil and give it a GO
What do you have to lose? You may be surprised to discover you want to keep on going............but if you're serious about writing....you can find 15 min. to get started

There's nothing more exciting for a writer than to find YOUR VOICE--
It's your turn! Begin your session by saying: My name is ______________and I'm a writer. Be relaxed and enjoy it!

WRITING PROMPTS

  • Write about a ceremony
  • Write about a present
  • Write about a person who had great impact on your life
  • Write about a day on the beach
  • Write about a childhood memory
  • Write about your favorite sport
  • Write about graduation
  • Write about a time of tears
  • Write about a time of fun and abandon
  • Write about a friendship
  • Write about your passion
  • Write about a dream or longing
  • Write about a time of testing

"IF WE HAD TO SAY WHAT WRITING IS, WE WOULD DEFINE IT ESSENTIALLY
AS AN ACT OF COURAGE." -- Cynthia Ozick