6 Ways to Take Responsibility For Your Writing by Steph Beth Nickel

Some people choose a word for the year. Others choose a theme. My theme for 2015 is The Year of Taking Responsibility.

 

What does taking responsibility look like to a writer?

 

Here are six ways we can each step up this year.

 

1. Create a list of goals.

 

Since you’ve signed up for A Round of Words in 80 Days, you’ve likely started on that list. At least you have goals for the next 80 days … and that’s a great start.

 

Keep in mind the acronym created by George T. Doran: SMART.  Goals should be specific, measurable, assignable (or attainable), realistic, and time-bound.

 

2. Schedule time to write.

 

Of course it is ideal if you can write every day, but that isn’t always the case.

 

Haul out your day planner or your smartphone. Schedule a regular rendezvous with your pen and paper—or your keyboard and computer.

 

Except in the case of truly extenuating circumstances, keep every date with your creative self—even when you don’t feel particularly creative.

 

3. Participate in ROW80

 

I know. I know. You already have this one covered.

 

But to take full advantage of what your fellow ROWers have to offer, check in at least once per week; visit other participants’ sites from time to time; and if you’re so inclined, pop by the FB group and connect with your fellow writers.

 

4. Read skills development books and blogs.

 

If you’re anything like me, you don’t have to look any further than your bookshelves, physical and virtual, for a stack of writing-related books that you have yet to read or reread.

 

Scheduling specific time to curl up with a good book is a great idea. We all have more to learn, no matter how far along the writing journey we are.

 

5. Read other books too.

 

Read in the genre in which you like to write. Read in other genres.

 

Read books that grab you by the throat. Read those you think have nothing to offer—you might be surprised.

 

While you’re reading, think about what the author has done well and things you would do differently. Incorporate what you learn in your own work—the good stuff, at least.

 

6. Write. Write. Write. And then, write some more.

 

We can call ourselves writers if we write. The adjectives like prolific, skilled, and published come with time.

 

Keep on keepin’ on, my fellow ROWers.

~*~

Steph Beth Nickel