TECH: Robert's rules?

[mbarker.livejournal.com]

Original Posting 15 March 2009

Other Rules?

Writer's Digest Inkwell on page 13 (I seem to have discarded the pages with the date on them -- probably sometime in 2006) has an article called The Other Rules for Writers by Linda DeMers Hummel. Basically, the suggestion is that you push beyond the ordinary rules found in advice for writers -- write what you know, show, don't tell, etc. -- and make up your own rules. Hummel provides five suggestions, but feel free to add your own:

1. Let the wall inspire you. You probably have a wall near your desk -- decorate it with things that inspire you. Pictures, cartoons, slogans -- whatever will help you write.
2. Make a negative list. List the people who think you can't be a good writer. I'd suggest also putting in the reasons that you can't be one. Make that list up, fold it up carefully, and throw it away.
3. Make a positive list. Make a list of 12 people you'd like to be in touch with. Each month, choose one person and write a letter. Build those relationships. Write the letter, revise it so it is a good letter, and send it.
4. Don't throw anything away. Keep a notebook with bits and pieces, dreams, and all those other odds and ends in them.
5. Start over every morning. Look back on the problems, the accomplishments, and so forth -- and then do something for today. It's a fresh day.

I've been working on First Things First, Scribble, and Get Started. First things first -- work on the important stuff before letting the e-mail, websites, and so forth eat up time. Scribble? Paper notes, outlines, plans, and so forth. Get started -- put down something. Do a little bit every day.

Anyway, figure out your own set of rules. And don't forget --
Write!