Techniques that might boost your writing skills:
Want to elevate your writing game on a budget? Here are some practical tips and tricks that'll help you become the next literary powerhouse, sans the hefty price tag.
Grab a damn book (or three)
Starting with the basics, read, read, and read some more. That's right, the great Stephen King put it best when he said, "If you don't have time to read, you don't have the tools to write."
But what should you read to become a better writer? Break the rules and consume everything, from new books to old, or re-read your favorite reads. Even dive into the books you hate. Get your critique on, figure out what works and what utterly fails, all while enjoying some fun and entertainment.
Don't shy away from books on writing craft either. These bad boys will offer tons of insight into the inner workings of the writing world, providing invaluable knowledge on why certain techniques work and why others flop. Find my top picks for beginner and advanced writers here.
Learn from the lives of others (seriously)
Got a penchant for peeking into people's lives? You're in luck. The world is overflowing with tales just waiting to be told, and you can soak up inspiration even without delving into hefty biographies. Check out documentaries, reality TV shows, and other forms of media that catch your eye. The possibilities are endless, so soak it all in.
And why stop at the popular choices? Don't be afraid to delve into the lives of people vastly different from yourself. Watch memoirs and biographies when you can, paying close attention to narrative styles, character development, and the portrayal of characters by the writer.
Get your social game on (no, not that kind of social game)
Writing doesn't have to be a solitary endeavor. Talk to people, strike up conversations, and eavesdrop when you can. Listen to old folks spin tales of yesteryears, or just enjoy a coffee shop chat. Pay attention to how people speak, the way they phrase things, and the stories they tell. You never know when you might stumble onto a gem for your next story.
Keep a notebook of these memorable moments, even if you're not sure where they'll fit in your writing yet. Collect 'em like shiny trinkets, trust me, you'll thank yourself later.
Studying new things, unrelated to writing
Got a hankering for learning? Great! New skills aren't just fun, they're excellent fodder for your writing. From Wikipedia rabbit holes to fun DIY projects, your brain will thrive on all this new knowledge.
Can't seem to find the time for a new hobby? Try out something new even if it's just a short stint. You'll be amazed at how your writer's brain will grow and adapt.
For more ways to spark your creativity and find inspiration, check out my post on different methods to bump up your creativity game.
Making friends with wordsmiths
Writing might be a solitary gig, but it doesn't have to be. If you want to connect with other writers without attending meetings or hearings criticisms, the internet is brimming with them. I've made amazing writing connections on Instagram, and most of them don't mind making a new friend or two.
Just use popular hashtags like #AspiringAuthor or #FindingMyWritingCommunity, and you'll find other folks just like you on their writing journey. Find someone at a similar level, and you could even become critique partners. This means you trade your work for feedback, helping each other refine your writing skills while lending support.
Join our writing community, Protagonist Crafters on Facebook, for more tips, support, and a friendly writing environment.
Get your leisure on (outdoors, if possible)
While writing might seem like you're stuck behind a screen, it's crucial to take a break, breathe some fresh air, and enjoy life outside of your writing world. Going for a walk or even sitting in a park can help stimulate creativity, focus your thoughts, and offer a break from the constant barrage of content.
Disconnect from your screens (Tiktok, books, TV shows) to let your mind wander, and don't forget to soak up the beauty of nature. Your creativity will thank you.
Ditto for self-care
Looking after your body is essential for optimal writing performance, but let's be real: few writers are known for their flawless diets and exercise regimens. Nonetheless, taking care of your health is crucial for your writing career.
Writers, myself included, have a tendency to write hunched over their computers, leading to poor posture and health issues. Take breaks, stretch, and ensure proper ergonomics for optimal writing experience. Find more health tips for writers here.
What do you think makes someone a better writer? Share your thoughts below!
Stop reading writing tips and start doing
Sure, writing tips are all well and good, but they're only useful if you put them into practice. That's why I'm always sharing writing exercises in my blog, encouraging you to apply what you've learned to your writing immediately.
If you'd like 40 dynamic writing exercises from my blog and other resources, just drop your details below and snag your free PDF without delay.
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Reading writing tips without taking action is as useful as watching a workout video instead of working out. When you put these exercises into practice, you can shed the fear and embarrassment of sharing your writing. Best of all, it's all completely free!
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Our website is a fiction writing blog penned by a published author and creative writing tutor. Discover more writing tips and inspiration in the blog, and explore author resources at Writer Lifestyle on Etsy.
- Beginner writers can find valuable resources in books on writing craft that provide insights into the inner workings of the writing world, offering practical knowledge on effective writing techniques.
- For inspiration, advanced writers may want to challenge themselves by exploring diverse forms of media, such as documentaries, reality shows, and biographies, to study narrative styles, character development, and the portrayal of characters.
- Regardless of their writing level, writers can expand their creative horizons by learning new, unrelated skills, whether through Wikipedia rabbit holes, DIY projects, or short-term hobbies, as their brain will thrive on all this new knowledge.
- Engaging with other writers, both online and offline, can offer invaluable feedback, support, and networking opportunities to help elevate one's writing career, thereby contributing to personal growth and education-and-self-development.
