We’ve all heard about small changes that can make a big difference in our lives. But we can still get stuck thinking we need to make big changes to get anywhere with our writing. We need to quit our day jobs, we think. Then we’d have time to write! OrContinue Reading
The celebration known as Elvis Week began shortly after Elvis’s death on August 16, 1977. That year, mourners from around the world gathered at Graceland—the entertainer’s home and where he was when he passed—to pay tribute. Ever since the gathering has continued at the same time every year. Fans makeContinue Reading
by Sandy Vaile After more than a decade of writing and teaching fiction, I have the luxury of looking back on my journey (thus far) to see where I could have done things differently to heighten enjoyment and expediate my arrival at the place I am now. And I’m goingContinue Reading
What does it take to graduate from amateur to pro writer? You may be wondering if you’ve done it yet. Maybe you think you have but you haven’t, or vice versa. Here are five signs you can watch for that show you have left the amateur behind. Amateur to Pro:Continue Reading
My first novel launched my fiction writing career, and I’m grateful for everything that happened with it. But with the benefit of hindsight, I can see several things that might have helped me progress a little faster. In case they may benefit you, I’ve written them down here. First NovelContinue Reading
I’m in the mood for some fun writing jokes. Did you know that April is National Humor month? No surprise—it starts on April Fool’s Day (April 1st). In a 2016 review, scientists linked laughter to reduced stress, a more efficient immune system, increased pain tolerance, cardiovascular benefits, and more. EvenContinue Reading
Are you frustrated at your lack of writing success? I often hear about this frustration from writers. Some tell me that they’ve been pitching agents for years and have yet to receive an offer for representation, so they’re ready to give up. Others say that publishing houses aren’t looking forContinue Reading
When life interferes with writing, it’s frustrating. You want to get the writing done, but you don’t know how. Everything is crazy. You’re super busy. Things seem to be in chaos. How can you possibly write? Try these five approaches. They can help you get some writing in, which forContinue Reading
Have you seen any good movies about writers recently? I just happened to get a chance to watch one a few weeks ago (listed first below). I had seen it before, but it was a long time ago and I didn’t remember a lot of it. It impressed me again,Continue Reading
Welcome to the Writing and Wellness annual quote round-up! Below you’ll find the best quotes from the authors featured on the site this year. This is the seventh time I’ve put these together. They’ve all been popular posts and I love how they capture certain overarching themes in the writingContinue Reading
As we come to the end of the year, I’m reflecting on the writing advice I’ve received. I’m so grateful to those mentors, editors, and writers who have helped me along the way. Where would we writers be without people like that? 1. There is no “right way” to write—soContinue Reading
Did you know that November is National Manatee Awareness Month? Me either! Until now, of course. And I’m excited to talk about it for a couple of reasons. First, we writers could learn a lot from manatees. I’ve got four important lessons they have to teach us below. Second, manateesContinue Reading