Six Ways Writers Invest in Themselves

For some, writing is a career; for others it's a hobby. Either way, one doesn't become a great writer without a little investment. Sure, we invest in computers, software, red pens, and writing magazines, but we also need to invest in ourselves. Here are six of my favorite ways to invest in myself.

1. Buy books to help them grow in the craft.

This includes “serious” books like Cheney’s Get the Words Right to lighter but still very useful fare such as Grammar Girl’s Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing by Mignon Fogarty.

2. Buy books in their genre.

Few things get the imagination motor running more than reading books in your genre. During last year’s World Series, a reporter found Steven King sitting in the stands. King is a baseball fan. Those around him held hot dogs and drinks; King held a book. He was reading between plays. He went on to talk about how great the book was. People like King and Dean Koontz devour books.

3. Buy books not in their genre.

To keep your creativity and imagination from becoming ingrown, read books different from what you right. If you specialize in fiction, then read some nonfiction. If you’re a book person, read magazines. If you write romance, read suspense. Doing this will exercise the mind and broaden your horizons.

4. Go to the movies.

Movies are acted short stories. Having a story play in front of your eyes will jumpstart your thinking. I have had many ideas come to me while watching a movie—ideas that have nothing to do with the movie. Being immersed in a creative medium helps me stay on my creative edge.

5. Nap.

Yup, I said nap. Creative thinking is hard work. Working at a computer tires the eyes. I prescribe the occasional nap. Several writers have told me they have a sofa or easy chair in their office just for this purpose. They don’t sleep the afternoon away, but a fifteen minute snooze revitalizes them.

6. Attend a writers conference.

Specifically, the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference. (Admit it. You knew this was coming.) Few things move a career along better than good writing classes led by experienced faculty, hanging with other writers, and getting away for awhile. It is a true investment.

How do you invest in your writing? Can you add to my list?

Al

Comments

[Angie Hunt]

Absolutely! I especially "amen" the "movies" suggestion--I probably watch 4-5 movies per week (what would I do without Netflix?) :-) Great suggestions, Al!

Angie

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[Faith]

I *knew* my naps were useful in some way! Maybe I'll stop feeling guilty about taking them now...

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[Cassandra Frear]

This is going to sound odd to some of you. Stillness and meditation. Being quiet without any of the routine noise of voices from media or live people talking to me. Being still. Taking a break from words every day charges my battery like nothing else. I don't know why. It's an investment I make for my writing and my life as a writer.

(I can't believe I am telling you this, but there it is.)