Writing: How To Get Started

A lot of people say they don't know where to begin when it comes to writing a book. "How do I get started?" is one of the most frequently asked questions I hear from aspiring writers. I'll be honest, writing a book is no easy feat. Many new writers obsess about how their story will unfold, the pacing of their plot, and the likability/believability of their characters. And they wonder how their beginning, middle, and end will all come together to form a good book. All those concerns are valid ones. But I think the most important aspect of "getting started" involves discipline.

Books are not written overnight, they are written over time. It is a process, and that process involves making a huge time commitment for the endeavor. Sure, there are some writers who can complete a book in record time and can churn out 10,000 words in one day. I once did 9,000 words, but the next day I felt as though I'd suffered a mild concussion. The truth is, writing requires long, uninterrupted hours of solitary time, where it's just you and your characters filling up blank pages.

How do you fill up those pages? One day at a time.

Getting started requires an every day commitment. If your lifestyle won't allow you to write for long hours every day, do something, even if you only write a few paragraphs or go over what you've already written. When you engage in the exercise of writing each day, your mind and body will soon grow accustomed to the familiar journey, and it will become a habit. Initially, it can be a challenging thing to do, so I tell aspiring writers to schedule writing time on their electronic calendar. Set the alert/alarm so it reminds you and holds you accountable. Just as you would schedule a hair appointment, doctor's visit, or a night out with friends, schedule your writing time!

Another thing I've found helpful is to record your word count every day. I keep a writing journal for each one of my novels. When I start writing in the morning, I record how many words I have on paper and I do it again at the end of my writing day. This allows me to see my progress (or lack thereof) and gives me the push to do more than I did the day before. 

Each writer will find their own rhythm and what works best for them. But the main thing is to commit yourself to doing something every day. Disciplining yourself will help you get started and before you know it you'll have a completed book.

Trice Hickman
www.tricehickman.com