Current Writing Resources
I used to share a lot more of my writing and my writing process, but I started to get a little self conscious. Sharing that you’re writing a book or working on something creative that then needs to go through a million hoops to make it into the hands of a consumer is very vulnerable, cause so much isn’t up to me. And on top of that, my writing schedule seems to go in peaks and valleys due to my acting schedule.
But now that acting schedule has lightened up, I’m able to dive back into my writing schedule. I won’t lie, it feels GOOD to be back in the swing of things creatively. I figured I’d round up some of my favorite books and videos that I look to for inspiration. But my biggest piece of advice is the hardest to accept: just write. You can’t edit a blank page and you can’t work out an idea in your brain. It has to be put on paper.
Please note that I am not a published author and I am not claiming to be an expert. These are just resources that are helping me and where I am in my writing journey so far. I highly recommend following Becca Freeman, who is a 2023 debut author and is very transparent about the writing/publishing process!
Save the Cat Writes a Novel
This is a classic craft book and while it can be a little dry, I think the structure it provides is always useful. I like to go back to it when I’m struggling because it helps me identify the things in my head that i can’t quite articulate their need to the story.
Romancing The Beat
A must for those writing romance!
You: The Story by Ruta Sepetys
I was sent a copy of this book and I haven’t used it yet but I’m looking forward to trying it out!
The Storyteller’s Workbook by Adrienne Young and Isabel Ibanez
I was also sent a copy of this book and it’s definitely more of a workbook than something that you read and absorb. I think it can useful for some writers and perhaps a little frustrating if you’re more of a pantser.
Hannah Orenstein’s Writing Facebook Group
I love to follow Hannah on Instagram for her writing tips and her Facebook group is a great way to find community, beta readers, and general writing advice.
Abbie Emmons Writer’s Life Wednesdays
I don’t watch every video Abbie posts, but her Writer’s Life Wednesdays are really useful to me!
Christine Riccio’s Writing Vlogs
Christine makes me laugh and I appreciate that she shows the hard parts of writing!
Shit No One Tells You About Writing Podcast
I like that the hosts of this podcast are involved in different aspects of publishing, so things are often quite balanced and you get to hear about more sides to the industry than just the creative, which is very important.
Agents and Books Newsletter
A really great resource for anyone pursuing traditional publishing.
Personal Tips:
Have an accountability partner: I have had the best luck with implementing this Into my routine! I have my friends Alexa and Amber to check in with in our group chat and weekly meetings. But I also have an IRL friend who is writing! We meet up twice a month in person to write together and have been co-working via Zoom in the mornings before work. Co-working means we sign onto Zoom and have each other there for support and accountability. We don’t do it every morning, but aim for 3-4 times a week! It’s been a huge difference maker for me. it makes me write/edit every single day!
Really let the idea really percolate—I keep a note in my phone whenever I have an idea for a book. In order for it to stick, I don’t act on the idea right away. If I’m still thinking about it non-stop, then I know it’s time to write it!
3. Keep going—Don’t give up. Write through the bad days to get to the good days.
4. Print out the first draft; outline after the first draft is written—This is just personal preference, but I like to read a hard copy of my first draft so I can get the big picture. After I’ve read it, I outline what works, what needs to be eliminated/added, where the structure needs to be improved, and how to connect the beginning and end.