Jane E. Alma

Some things that I wished I had been told when I started writing <3

1. Read, read, read:

Immerse yourself in the works of established authors across various genres. Reading not only exposes you to different writing styles and techniques but also helps you understand the fundamentals of storytelling. It broadens your vocabulary, sparks your imagination, and inspires your own writing.

2. Write regularly:

Make writing a habit. Set aside dedicated time each day or week to write, even if it's just for a short period. Consistency is key to improving your skills and developing your unique voice. Practice, experiment, and don't be afraid to make mistakes – it's all part of the learning process.

3. Embrace the editing process:

Writing is rewriting. Understand that your first draft is just the beginning. Editing and revising are crucial steps that transform your work into its best version. Be open to constructive feedback, whether from friends, writing groups, or professionals. Embrace the opportunity to refine your ideas, strengthen your prose, and polish your storytelling.

4. Find your writing environment:

Discover the environment in which you feel most comfortable and creative. Experiment with different settings, and create a space that inspires and motivates you to write. Surround yourself with objects, images, or music that enhance your creativity.

5. Explore different genres and styles:

Don't limit yourself to a single genre or writing style. Experiment with different forms of writing – from short stories to poetry, fiction to non-fiction. Trying new genres and styles challenges you as a writer, expands your skills. I also find this really helpful If I feel stuck in a project. Whenever I feel really stuck, I like to open a new document, or even get a pen and some paper and just write something completely different. It might just be a silly little poem, or maybe I’ll just write down what I’ve been doing that day. Just something to get out of my head, and then I can get back to my project with a clearer mind.

6. Write what you love:

Write about topics that genuinely interest and excite you. When you're passionate about your subject matter, your enthusiasm will shine through in your writing. Whether it's fantasy, romance, history, or science fiction, let your love for the topic fuel your creativity and captivate your readers.

7. Trust your voice:

Each writer has a unique voice, perspective, and story to tell. Embrace your individuality and trust your instincts. Don't compare yourself to others or try to imitate someone else's style. Your voice is what sets you apart and makes your writing authentic.

8. Enjoy the process:

Above all, enjoy the process of writing. Writing is a creative outlet, a form of self-expression, and a journey of self-discovery. Embrace the ups and downs, the challenges and triumphs, and savor the joy of bringing your ideas to life through words.

Okay, so I think we can all agree that writer's block sucks. And if you're someone who writes regularly, there's no way to avoid experiencing it from time to time (I sure know I do). But here are a few things that I usually find helpful when I experience writer’s block <3

Firstly, give yourself permission to take a break. Sometimes, the harder we push ourselves to write, the more elusive inspiration becomes. Step away from your writing for a little while and engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. This could be anything from going for a walk, reading a book, or indulging in a hobby. By taking time to recharge, you allow your mind to reset and open up to new ideas. Sometimes it can be an longer break that is needed, sometimes the best way to get back into writing if you have a really bad case of writer’s block is to simply not try.

Another useful technique is to try freewriting. Set a timer for a specific duration, it can be as short as 10-15 minutes (personally, I prefer setting my timer for about half an hour to 45 minutes when I do this), and write continuously without worrying about grammar, punctuation, or structure. Let your thoughts flow freely onto the page. This exercise can help loosen up your creative muscles and break through any mental barriers. If you know that you have a tendency to overthink or be overly self critical when you write, I suggest avoiding a time duration longer than 30 minutes, at least the first times you do this exercise.

If you find yourself stuck on a particular project, consider working on something completely different. Switching gears and exploring a new topic or genre can provide a fresh perspective and alleviate the pressure you may be putting on yourself. Experimenting with different writing styles or formats can also help reignite your passion for storytelling.

Collaboration can be another effective way to overcome writer's block. Engage in writing exercises with fellow writers or seek feedback from trusted peers. Sharing your work-in-progress and receiving constructive criticism can often provide valuable insights and new directions for your writing.

Lastly, it's important to remember that writer's block is a natural part of the creative process. Be patient and kind to yourself. Avoid self-criticism and negative self-talk. Instead, focus on nurturing your creativity through self-care, reading, and exploring new experiences. Trust that inspiration will return in its own time.

Plotting out a story is an essential step in bringing your ideas to life and creating a compelling narrative. Here are some valuable tips that I personally find helpful to effectively plot out new story ideas <3

1. Start with the basics: Begin by identifying the key elements of your story – the main characters, setting, and central conflict. Understand who your characters are, what they want, and what obstacles they will face. This foundation will serve as a solid starting point for your plot.

2. Outline the major plot points: Once you have a clear understanding of your story's foundation, outline the major plot points. These are the significant events or turning points that drive the story forward. Consider the introduction, inciting incident, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution. This structure will give your story a sense of direction and progression.

3. Create a timeline: Develop a timeline or sequence of events that organizes the flow of your story. This helps you visualize the progression of events and ensures a logical and coherent narrative. Consider the cause-and-effect relationship between different plot points and how they impact your characters' journey.

4. Use storyboarding or visual aids: Visual aids, such as storyboards or visual diagrams, can be helpful for visual thinkers. Create a visual representation of your story's structure, mapping out the key scenes, character arcs, and plot developments. This can provide a clear overview and help you spot any gaps or inconsistencies.

5. Balance pacing and tension: As you plot out your story, consider the pacing and tension. Ensure that your story has a good balance of slower, introspective moments and high-stakes, action-packed sequences. Introduce obstacles and conflicts that keep readers engaged and eager to turn the pages.

6. Allow for flexibility: While it's important to have a solid plot outline, don't be afraid to deviate or adapt as you write. Sometimes, characters surprise you or new ideas emerge during the creative process. Stay open to these possibilities and be willing to adjust your plot if it serves the story better.

7. Revise and refine: Plotting is an iterative process. Once you have a draft of your plot, review it critically. Look for areas that may need more development, pacing adjustments, or additional conflict. Refine your plot to ensure it aligns with your overall story vision.