7 Ways to Be A Better (More Focused) Writer

 

I've started working on a novel. I've always loved the art of the written word. When I was 10, I began to write short screenplays about a teenage spy named Agent Tree (I think I picked the surname Tree because Bush was president at the time...who knows). My current desire to write was in part spurred by JulNoWriMo (cousin to NaNoWriMo), in which writers across the nation attempt to write a 50,000-word (175-page) story in 30 days. Naturally, the event is more than a little intimidating. I have yet to make an account on the JulNo website, which can be used to track how many words you are up to, because I prefer to work at my own pace. However, without the website to keep me focused, I haven't been writing as frequently as I would like to. Thus, I've compiled a list of ways to be a better, more focused writer. The ideas and suggestions are based on personal experience and the experiences of my friends.

7. Find sources of inspiration and let your creativity flow. Keep a notebook or Word document full of favorite quotations. Relish the beauty of words. Discover new music and record lyrics that let your imagination wander. Create a pin board (real or virtual). Let the visual loveliness aid in unleashing your ideas.

6. Get organized. Keep the inspiring words and images you find near you and begin to freewrite. Don't inhibit yourself. Jot down any idea that comes to you. Brainstorm character names, personalities, and idiosyncrasies and the story's setting(s). 

5. Find your preferred workspace, be it the desk in your bedroom, a table at a coffee shop, or a bench at a park. Write where you are relaxed and your mind is clear.

4. If you can, find a friend who you can share your ideas with. It can be very beneficial to have someone to give you feedback on your work. If possible, find a friend who is a fellow writer and give him or her feedback, as well. Bounce ideas off of each other. Email, text, go out for coffee.

3. Stay inspired - by thinking outside of the box. If you find yourself in need of direction, don't be afraid to be quirky. Dress up as your character and have a photo shoot. Talk as your character and record yourself. Go shopping and ponder what your character would buy.

2. On the other hand, don't be afraid to take a break from writing. Sometimes we can get so caught up in the process that we lose focus. While it can be wonderful to be consumed by ideas, too much creative energy can be dizzying. Take some time to gather your thoughts. Read. Watch a movie. Talk to your writing buddy. Return to your work after a few days (or even a month, if need be).

1. Keep track of your goals (and set realistic goals). The trick is in not overwhelming yourself by being overly ambitious. The words will come. If it helps, continue to freewrite. Plan out chapters (or key plot details, at the least) in bullet format. Work at your own pace. It's not a race; it's about exploring your creative mind.