Becoming a Writer: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

• Speaker: Kieran, a writer and freelance editor with 20 years of experience.
• Purpose: Provide a clear path for aspiring writers.
• Encouragement to follow along for a methodical approach.

Overcoming Obstacles to Writing

Common Concerns

1. Fear of Judgment: Worry about how others perceive your aspiration to write.
2. Self-Doubt: Concerns that no one will want to read your stories or that you may not be good at writing.

Self-Reflection

• Often, the biggest obstacle is self-imposed doubts.
• Importance of mental barriers in the writing process.

Key Attributes for Writing

• Self-belief
• Determination
• Persistence
• Motivation to learn.

Five Myths to Leave Behind

1. Not Being Good Enough:

   • Normal to feel inadequate; perfection is not expected.
   • Everyone starts at a different skill level.

2. Lack of Formal Education:

   • Self-teaching is crucial. Practical experience beats theoretical knowledge.
   • Utilize available resources and tools for learning.

3. No Time to Write:

   • No specific deadline unless you set one.
   • Routines can help; slow progress is still progress.
   • Creativity can happen sporadically; embrace it.

4. Knowledge Overload:

   • You are not expected to know everything about writing to start.
   • Focus on creativity and instinct rather than rules initially.

5. Fear of Failure:

   • Success is subjective; pursue writing for the joy of storytelling.
   • Writing should be fun and fulfilling, independent of success metrics.

Writing Exercises

Preparation for Writing

• Tools: Use any writing medium that works for you (Word, Google Docs, pen, etc.).
• Focus on writing without worrying about formatting or looks.

Exercise 1: Free Writing

• Goal: Spend three minutes writing whatever comes to mind without constraints.
• Purpose: Warm up creativity and overcome blank page syndrome.

Exercise 2: Writing Dialogue

• Goal: Create a dialogue between two characters:
  • Use a main character from the latest story read and a favorite character.
  • Discuss their strangest or most exciting memory.
• Duration: Three minutes without worrying about perfection.

Exercise 3: Opening Paragraph

• Focus: Write an opening paragraph without expectation of quality.
• Importance of self-encouragement and recognizing self-doubt.
• Duration: Three minutes; prioritize a supportive inner dialogue.

Closing Thoughts

• Patience is key in the writing process; expect gradual improvement.
• Kindness to oneself fosters creativity.
• Recognition: If you write, you are a writer—you're part of the community.

Additional Resources

• Sign up for a free mailing list for monthly writing inspiration.
• Encouragement to explore additional content from the speaker.