My top tips for aspiring writers
I have been asked a few times now, what advice I would give to aspiring writers. So I have come up with a list of my top seven tips for any aspiring writers out there:
*Have a very clear purpose from the get-go
The most important of them all is to have a very clear purpose from the very beginning. For me, my purpose was all about helping others. All throughout the writing process, I was constantly asking myself, how can what I am writing, help other people? In addition, I would visualise regularly all the people that my book would help; sex workers, survivors of domestic violence and anyone dealing with shame. I became passionate about sharing my story in order to make life better and safer for the next generation of sex workers. That passion became a burning desire inside of me that was my fuel to keep moving forwards (and still is today). Having that clear purpose really helped pull me through the challenging times (there will be many).
*Choose your inner circle wisely
Surround yourself with positive energy and like-minded people who will support you and lift your spirits up when times get tough. Distance yourself from negativity as this will only hold you back from achieving your potential. I have learnt to only allow room for compassionate and understanding people in my life. People who genuinely want the best for me and are excited to see my growth and celebrate my achievements.
*Always trust your gut
If ever you get that ‘off’ feeling or something doesn’t feel quite right, listen to it. That is your intuition speaking to you. Nobody will have the passion for your story in the same way that you do so it’s important to listen to what your intuition is telling you when facing difficult decisions. Of course listen to your team and take their advice but also trust in yourself and in your visions. If you are struggling to come to an agreement, press the ‘pause’ button and sleep on it.
*Try not to over share
I understand it might be hard to keep things to yourself when you are excited about your writing journey and wanting to share it with friends and family but sitting on it and keeping it to yourself will strengthen your focus. Comments from friends and family however helpful they may seem, can be a distraction. During the first few months of writing, Unashamed, I kept it all to myself and was able to put all of my focus and energy into my writing. I didn’t share anything on social media until editing was complete. Go quiet and build.
*Be prepared to make sacrifices
You need to be prepared to make sacrifices along the way. They will pay off in the long run. For me personally, I sacrificed holidays, relationships, long weekends, a social life, time with friends and family. If you are truly passionate about what you are doing then it won’t feel like you are missing out. Writing a book can be gruelling and challenging requiring sheer grit and determination. There were times when I would work for five days straight, 15-hour days often into the early hours of the morning (not recommended!).
*Believe in yourself no matter what
Believe, believe, believe! Don’t let anybody else talk you out of it. You know yourself better than anyone else. You know why your story is important and what it means to you. And you understand why it is important for you to share your story with the world. Trust that feeling, that passion and do not stop believing in yourself no matter what people may say. Stay focused and stay in your lane.
*Connect with nature and take regular tech breaks
Walks out in nature became my absolute solace during the writing process. It was a great way for me to get out of my own head after working tirelessly to meet certain deadlines. I would turn my phone off and immerse myself into the natural world. Walking through woodlands, being surrounded by trees and hearing the birds singing gave me a deep sense of calm.
And just remember – we all face challenges in life no matter who we are! Keep going, keep believing, persist through the tough times, revel in the setbacks, laugh in the face of adversity and you will become unstoppable!