A few writing guidelines

Some simple writing guidelines

Tim Connor, CSP

I have over 300 articles on LinkedIn and 800 on Ezine articles.com.  The following article during the past few weeks has received more likes than any other I have ever posted on any site. Therefore, I decided to share it this week with my subscribers just in case some of you may be in one of the following three groups (if you are not - hit the enter button on your device to go to your next chore). Group one – you feel “I have a book in me” but you just can’t seem to start it or get it finished. Group two - you may write as a part of your career role or responsibilities – maybe you will pick up a point or two. Group three – you write in a daily journal, are a would-be poet or just like to write.  I hope the following has some value for you.   

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As the author of over 80 books including a few international bestsellers and one million + book – and over 7500 articles - I offer a few simple guidelines I have used to write all these many years. Agree – don’t agree – like them – don’t like them – regardless – see number three.

“Regardless of whether you are a proven published author or are an aspiring wanna-be author - without a few writing rules, you will never achieve your writing potential, purpose or goals.”

As a mentor over the years to numerous authors, I have shared the following guidelines from many years of struggle, failure and frustration and yes success as an author.

1)   Write from the heart, not your mind.

2)   Don’t edit while you write.

3)   Don’t be concerned with other’s opinions of your writing.

4)   Write every day.

5)   Have a completion goal – the timeframe for the conclusion in mind.

6)   Write with purpose, passion, and courage.

7)   Don’t let editors or publishers change your writing style – your name is on the cover.

8)   Write from experience and not superficial or egotistical agendas.

9)   Don’t re-write.  What you created was what is supposed to be written.

10)Don’t let others invalidate your desire or reason for writing.

11)Writing is not about education, fame or style but the ability to be you on paper.

12)Looking back – don’t regret not writing.

13)If what you want to write will help others – who is it helping until it is written?

14)Writer's block is caused by the need to please others or the fear of disapproval.

15)Don’t wait to be accepted by a publisher – you’ll wait forever – self-publish.

16)Use an editor you trust and respect.

17)Write because you want to write – no other reason is more important.

Want to chat about any of the above – contact me – 704-875-1230  timspeake4u@gmail.com.