Writing can be one of the most enjoyable and therapeutic pastimes around, especially because there is such a broad spectrum of genres to choose from.  Poetry and song lyrics are enjoyable to write because of how short and meaningful they can be, but at the same time, many people struggle to write lengthier pieces, even though having the ability to write essays and stories is often more useful than being able to write lyrics.  Knowing how hard it can be to even write 500 words for an English essay, how does someone take on the immense task of penning a novel?

As I am currently writing a novel, I have stumbled into this problem numerous times.  First, I make sure to write something every day.  Even if I only add a few words to my draft, I have made some progress, and something is generally better than nothing.

Next, I follow the advice of Roald Dahl, who noted that a writer should never stop writing when they reach a wall or they may never continue.  Instead, I try to work through scenes that are very difficult for me to write, and when I get to a scene that I am really excited about writing, I stop.  That way I can come back tomorrow eager to start working again.

Finally, and perhaps the most difficult rule for me to follow, I try to keep writing rather than worry too much about what I am saying.  The time for editing can come later, and I have found that when I allow myself simply write and not get bogged down in every word, I am much more productive.

These tips have helped me greatly as I write my novel.  Even longer essays and school projects can benefit from keeping this advice in mind.  Until next time…