Tips for writing a first draft

Tips for writing a first draft

There is no right or wrong way to write the first draft of your novel. That’s one thing that new writers have in common with published authors. Getting the words written down on paper is one of the most stressful things to do. As a writer, I’m already learning so much about the value of perseverance, self-discipline, and self-compassion.

Read More

How to keep track of your writing

How to keep track of your writing

For the last few years, I have struggled to keep track of my writing progress. My system of organizing everything was incoherent and inconsistent. I had documents scattered throughout different folders.

There were a great many writing journals with bookmarked pages. I will not even speak about the nonsensical way I recorded my writing ideas in the little Notes App on my phone. Before that, I only kept track of my writing inside my head.

Read More

How to find the time and energy to write

How to find the time and energy to write

There are so many barriers and negative thoughts that can eat away at one’s sense of productivity or their creativity when it comes to the art of creative writing.

Especially, when you’re a new, aspiring writer when you’re working on your chapbook, story, comic, or novel on the sidelines of your everyday life.

I call these barriers writer’s block, imposter syndrome, self-doubt, exhaustion, perfectionism, fear of the future, and, of course, life in general.

Read More

How I find inspiration for writing

How I find inspiration for writing

There was a time when I hated researching and brainstorming details for the story I was working on. Now, I see it as a key part of the creative process. Ever since I have been seeking out new sources of ideas and inspiration when it comes to the stories I write (and aspire to write).

There are many things to research in the creative writing process. Such as ideas for names, places, and characters. Research is key because it shows you, as a writer, made an effort to add believability, originality, and authenticity to your creative work.

Read More

How to be kind to yourself as a writer

How to be kind to yourself as a writer

No matter if you’re an aspiring, new, or established writer, there is one detail about your craft that you can’t overlook or ignore. That detail is this – you must always be kind to yourself as a writer.

There is so much work that goes into writing something original and engaging. The whole process and experience can be as fun as it is frustrating.

Once you find the balance between hobby and hard labour, it becomes easier. However, there are a few gentle reminders you can set for yourself along the way.

Read More

My Creative Writing Process

My Creative Writing Process

There is nothing more engaging and exciting than two creators talking about their art. I myself have a friend who is very gifted at digital drawing, and I always take the chance to learn more about her process and support her progress. She, too, is always eager to hear about my creative writing.

One thing engaging with other writers and artists has taught me is that there is no right or wrong way to write a story or do anything remotely artistic.

Read More

World-building Inspiration: Geography

World-building Inspiration: Geography

World-building is one of my favourite things to do. Especially when I find a new project to work on or I need a break from my current writing project.

Creating a unique, exciting world from scratch it what makes different fantasy novels so unique and exciting to read.

I’ve been thinking for a while now that fantasy literature is starting to make a comeback. And this makes writing fantasy even more inspiring and fun to do. But it is no easy feat. There is a lot of work that goes into creating a rich, imaginative world that feels real.

Read More