Read everything! You're bound to get ideas from the most unlikely of areas/sources. Write about things that matter to you. If the passion is missing, the writing won't be any good, so make it count. Write whenever you get the chance. Got a spare minute? Write a poem or thought! It keeps you in practice and gets the creative juices flowing. Be clear in what you're trying to say. Floral language is more likely to put people off reading your work than clear, concise language. Put your idea on paper before you begin to write. A quick outline or a couple of bullet points are useful as they help to keep the piece on track. Don't edit as you write; do it after the piece you're writing is finished. Stopping to edit interrupts the flow of your thoughts. Become familiar with writing styles. For certain publications, editors may ask you for references in your work. A working knowledge of APA, MLA, AP and Chicago styles is always an advantage. R...
Opening a Chapter of Inspiration Served with a Heavy Dose of Reality